Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare market, praised for its power to moisturize, protect, and revitalize 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 ethics and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of major categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer botanical choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for ethical considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation uses massive amounts of water and often results in waste. This makes it less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for those with combination 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 mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil delivers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.