Squalane oil has secured a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to nourish, defend, and rejuvenate the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from a pair of key categories: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Unfortunately, this approach has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are highly unethical and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly option. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a high-quality product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based options, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for sustainable reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often results in pollution. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s a great choice for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, rendering it great for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, normal skin, squalane oil provides incredible results. By choosing plant-based options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes a superior products available.