Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, admired for its power to hydrate, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple primary origins: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, squalane oil eczema which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer botanical alternatives, their sustainability differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for ethical purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial issues. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often results in environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, providing effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, keeping it great for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible benefits. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.