Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to nourish, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major categories: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The decision between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based options, their environmental impact varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for environmental purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires massive amounts of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it unsustainable than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding oil squalane cleanser against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.