Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare market, praised for its ability to moisturize, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major sources: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious solution. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical choices, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation consumes excessive volumes of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, delivering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation reduces redness, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled benefits. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.