Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to moisturize, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of major sources: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based choices, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation uses massive amounts of water and often causes environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, making it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil delivers incredible squalane keratosis pilaris results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.