Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to hydrate, shield, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major origins: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly alternative. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal sacrifice. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for sustainable reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation consumes excessive volumes of water and often produces pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich pure olive squalane oil in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective products available.