Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its ability to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of key categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan options, their sustainability varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation squalane oil while breastfeeding consumes large quantities of water and often causes environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: 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 pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable advantages. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective solutions available.