Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its ability to moisturize, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of key categories: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly option. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This approach squalane oil with retinol addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their sustainability differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes massive amounts of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, providing profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, keeping it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled results. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective solutions available.