Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a squalane oil morning or night refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple major origins: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for sustainable considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil provides incredible advantages. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior solutions available.