Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to nourish, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of major categories: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The decision between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are inhumane and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is when to use squalane oil the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly option. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based choices, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane production consumes massive amounts of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.