Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare world, celebrated for its ability to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a significant role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple primary sources: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer vegan alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant issues. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often produces waste. This makes it less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its squalane oil with vitamin c lightweight texture keeps it ideal for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable results. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to a highly effective products available.