Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare world, praised for its capacity to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of major sources: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil website was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also results in a high-quality product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation consumes massive amounts of water and often produces environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it perfect for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.