Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, praised for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of primary sources: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This method ensures humane sourcing but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While both offer botanical options, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane squalane oil shark liver oil is widely regarded as preferable for ethical purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often produces environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil provides incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior ingredients available.