Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare industry, praised for its power to moisturize, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering improved longevity. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of primary sources: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The preference between these categories carries significant ethical implications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This method ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer vegan options, their sustainability is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for sustainable considerations. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming uses large quantities of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is less eco-friendly than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers a plethora of benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil absorbs deeply into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and squalane oil results fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, mature skin, squalane oil provides incredible results. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.