Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare world, celebrated for its ability to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same squalane oil on hair quality. Its source 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 major origins: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was commonly derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This method ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer vegan choices, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for ethical reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires massive amounts of water and often produces waste. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s 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.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, keeping it perfect for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil provides incredible results. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also give your complexion a superior ingredients available.