Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare market, celebrated for its capacity to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of primary origins: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical choices, their sustainability varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides 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 substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane production uses excessive volumes of water and often produces waste. This makes it squalane oil for scalp less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for all skin types, including oily 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.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation reduces redness, rendering it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also treat your skin to a superior products available.