Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare industry, praised for its power to nourish, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Understanding squalane oil vs bakuchiol Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer plant-based alternatives, their environmental impact differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for environmental considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming requires large quantities of water and often produces pollution. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, rendering it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil provides remarkable benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize ethical practices but also treat your skin to one of the best ingredients available.