Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to hydrate, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from two major origins: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer vegan alternatives, their sustainability is not the same.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil marula oil vs squalane is viewed as better for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable issues. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often causes waste. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for those with combination 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.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil offers remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a highly effective products available.