Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to moisturize, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious solution. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While both offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible advantages. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.