Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of key origins: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
In the past, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this practice has major ethical problems. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces squalane oil occlusive a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two categories stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While each offer botanical choices, their sustainability varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant environmental challenges. Sugarcane farming requires massive amounts of water and often causes waste. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while shielding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation reduces redness, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing botanical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also treat your skin to a highly effective solutions available.