Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to moisturize, 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 improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is of the same quality. Its source plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of major origins: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are inhumane and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types best squalane oil for face stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based options, their sustainability is not the same.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant issues. Sugarcane production uses large quantities of water and often results in pollution. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, making it great for delicate skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil provides unparalleled advantages. By choosing botanical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.