Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its power to hydrate, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from two primary sources: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, squalane oil skin benefits vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based choices, their environmental impact is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for environmental considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant issues. Sugarcane farming requires large quantities of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, providing profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil provides incredible results. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also treat your skin to a highly effective solutions available.