Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its power to nourish, shield, 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. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical squalane oil and sunscreen and eco-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer vegan options, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains the same 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 notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation uses large quantities of water and often results in pollution. This makes it unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable results. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.