Why Squalane Oil is a Skincare Must-Have
Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, admired for its power to nourish, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple primary sources: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and planet-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer botanical choices, their sustainability differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for sustainable purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often results in waste. This makes it less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, offering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, making it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil provides incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also treat your skin to one of the best solutions available.