Squalane oil has earned a important place in the skincare industry, praised for its capacity to nourish, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a key role in determining its sustainability and effect on the planet.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple key categories: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The choice between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Regrettably, this method has severe ethical problems. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly alternative. It is sourced from plants, eliminating the need on animal harvesting. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer botanical choices, their sustainability is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as preferable for environmental purposes. Olives are a sustainable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane production consumes large quantities of water and often causes pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled benefits. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best solutions available.