Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare market, praised for its power to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a significant role in determining its sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple key categories: animal-based and plant-derived materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Historically, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly alternative. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While each offer vegan options, their sustainability varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for ethical purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant issues. Sugarcane production requires large quantities of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane is squalane oil good for eczema Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps thoroughly into the skin, offering effective hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled benefits. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also give your complexion a superior products available.