Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare market, admired for its capacity to hydrate, 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 a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, making it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, squalane oil review mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best ingredients available.