Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare world, admired for its ability to nourish, shield, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its origin plays a significant role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple major sources: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was often derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This option not squalane oil as lube only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer botanical alternatives, their sustainability is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for sustainable purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane production requires large quantities of water and often produces environmental degradation. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation reduces redness, making it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled advantages. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best ingredients available.