Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these sources carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer vegan options, their sustainability differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for ethical considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often causes waste. Thus, it is unsustainable than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation reduces redness, making it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled results. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best solutions available.