Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its capacity to nourish, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key categories: animal-based squalane oil during pregnancy and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging 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 a sustainable and planet-friendly alternative. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their sustainability varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming consumes excessive volumes of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a superior solutions available.