Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare world, praised for its ability to moisturize, shield, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, squalane oil products offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key origins: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year 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.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly option. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based choices, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often results in waste. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: 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 natural formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best ingredients available.