Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare market, admired for its power to nourish, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The decision between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer vegan options, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation consumes large quantities of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: 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 pure formulation soothes sensitivity, making it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best products available.