Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, celebrated for its ability to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The decision between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer vegan choices, their sustainability varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for environmental considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane farming consumes massive amounts of water and often causes waste. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, making it great for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible results. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also ensure your beauty squalane oil after moisturizer routine includes a superior products available.