Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare market, 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 stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key origins: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is transformed sugarcane squalane oil into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer plant-based options, their sustainability varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial issues. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, offering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers incredible benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.