Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to hydrate, defend, 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 derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of key sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was often extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious option. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer vegan choices, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant issues. Sugarcane farming consumes excessive volumes of water and often results in pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance squalane oil priceline of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible benefits. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.