Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The decision between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers squalane oil and salicylic acid a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical choices, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation consumes massive amounts of water and often results in pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, providing effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, rendering it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.