Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare market, praised for its ability to moisturize, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of primary sources: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly option. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, making it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective solutions available.