Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to nourish, 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 enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major categories: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The squalane oil hair benefits choice between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious alternative. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer vegan alternatives, 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 generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane production requires excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil provides incredible benefits. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a superior products available.