Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its power to nourish, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple key categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for environmental purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane production uses massive amounts of water and often causes waste. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, rendering it perfect for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable advantages. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective solutions available.