Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare market, admired for its ability to nourish, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple major origins: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two sources stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for environmental reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes excessive volumes of water and often results in pollution. This makes it environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, rendering it perfect for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective products available.