Squalane oil has gained a prominent place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its power to hydrate, shield, 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. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its derivation plays a key role in determining its moral standing and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be derived from multiple key sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant natural source of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based options, their eco-friendliness varies greatly.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for ethical reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming uses massive amounts of water and often causes pollution. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, providing effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation eases irritation, rendering it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether squalane oil from shark you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a highly effective ingredients available.