Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare industry, admired for its power to moisturize, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of primary sources: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these squalane oil breakout sources has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently derived from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer vegan alternatives, their sustainability varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation uses excessive volumes of water and often produces pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible advantages. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.