Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare world, admired for its power to nourish, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple key categories: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has serious ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the methods used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and eco-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, squalane oil fatty acid profile avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also produces a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While both offer vegan options, their sustainability varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for ethical purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it unsustainable than the olive alternative.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: 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 reduces redness, making it perfect for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers incredible benefits. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also give your complexion one of the best products available.