Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, praised for its capacity to moisturize, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their environmental impact is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane production consumes massive amounts of water and often causes environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation eases irritation, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil delivers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.