Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from two primary origins: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method ensures humane sourcing 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 types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane cultivation consumes excessive volumes of water and often results in pollution. This makes it unsustainable than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for varied complexions. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it great for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable results. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also treat squalane oil for kids your skin to one of the best ingredients available.