Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its ability to moisturize, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created 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 sustainability and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The decision between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are slaughtered on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly solution. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal sacrifice. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two primary types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While both offer botanical alternatives, their sustainability is not the same.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for significant eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes large quantities of water is squalane oil good for nails and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates thoroughly into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice 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 natural formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled advantages. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to one of the best ingredients available.