Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare market, admired for its capacity to moisturize, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from two key categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This method ensures humane sourcing but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and squalane oil skin care skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane production requires large quantities of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation eases irritation, rendering it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.