Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare world, praised for its power to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key sources: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from squalane oil lube Animal Sources
Traditionally, 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 harvested on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based options, their environmental impact is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial issues. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often results in environmental degradation. Thus, it is unsustainable than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal 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 guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.