Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare market, admired for its power to nourish, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from two key categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan options, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for sustainable purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane production uses massive amounts of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: 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 mild formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible benefits. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best products available.