Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare market, celebrated for its ability to nourish, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a key role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The decision between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often extracted from shark liver oil. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this method has major ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a safe and effective product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer squalane oil omega 3 vegan alternatives, their eco-friendliness differs significantly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered better for sustainable considerations. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial issues. Sugarcane production consumes large quantities of water and often results in waste. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it ideal for those with combination skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation reduces redness, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best products available.