Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, praised for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key sources: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious option. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This method ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical squalane oil in eye Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. 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 preferable for ethical considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane production uses large quantities of water and often causes environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, providing profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil delivers remarkable benefits. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a highly effective products available.