Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare world, celebrated for its power to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of key origins: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly option. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among squalane oil eyebrows botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best products available.