Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, admired for its capacity to nourish, shield, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant provider of squalane oil under sunscreen squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also results in a high-quality product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation consumes excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers incredible results. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a highly effective ingredients available.