Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, praised for its power to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same squalane oil vs castor oil quality. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple primary sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a sustainable and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer plant-based options, their environmental impact is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for sustainable considerations. 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.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant issues. Sugarcane farming requires excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, making it great for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also give your complexion a highly effective solutions available.