Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, celebrated for its ability to moisturize, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. 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 major origins: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often sourced from the livers of sharks. Sharks are an abundant natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer botanical options, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for environmental considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often produces pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why squalane oil viscosity it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a superior products available.