Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, praised for its ability to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from two primary categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for environmental reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, providing effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil provides remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion a superior products available.