Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare market, praised for its power to nourish, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key sources: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The decision between these sources carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer vegan choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for ethical considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, keeping it perfect for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable advantages. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior solutions available.