Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to hydrate, 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. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a significant role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple primary origins: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The preference between these sources carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are inhumane and are squalane oil vs snail mucin environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based options, their environmental impact differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for sustainable considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant issues. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often causes waste. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, offering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal 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 protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled results. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best products available.