Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to nourish, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer botanical choices, their sustainability varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation consumes massive amounts of water and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, making it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled advantages. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane squalane oil vs rosehip oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion a highly effective ingredients available.