Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, admired for its ability 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 a longer shelf life. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane squalane keratosis pilaris oil can be derived from a pair of key sources: sourced from animals and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these categories has serious ethical ramifications.
Squalane Oil from Animal Sources
Traditionally, squalane oil was often derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this method has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested every year for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the methods used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious alternative. It is produced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This option addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a high-quality product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based alternatives, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as preferable for ethical purposes. Olives are a plentiful resource that are minimally wasteful. On top of that, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent 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 notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation uses large quantities of water and often produces environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for varied complexions. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil absorbs thoroughly into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture keeps it a great choice for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, normal skin, squalane oil provides remarkable results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best ingredients available.