Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare market, celebrated for its power to nourish, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major sources: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was squalane oil vs squalene commonly extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly alternative. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal sacrifice. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a high-quality product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. On top of that, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial issues. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often causes environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, keeping it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled benefits. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.