Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its capacity to moisturize, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key origins: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The choice between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was commonly sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan options, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for environmental reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation uses excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
squalane oil redness for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it perfect for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil delivers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective ingredients available.