Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to moisturize, protect, and revitalize 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. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was often derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious alternative. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer plant-based options, their environmental impact differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant issues. Sugarcane production uses excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. Thus, it is unsustainable than olive-derived squalane oil vs argan oil for face options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, offering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.