Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to moisturize, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of key sources: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are squalane oil viscosity slaughtered annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly alternative. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer vegan alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming consumes excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled advantages. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.