Squalane oil has earned a vital place in the skincare world, 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 refined 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 moral standing and effect on the planet.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of key categories: animal-derived and plant-derived materials. The preference between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was often derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are slaughtered annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the processes used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly alternative. It is extracted from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This option not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a safe and effective product for skincare use.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two primary types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based choices, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for environmental considerations. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. Additionally, olive squalane oil retains comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as squalane oil from sugarcane.
The Environmental Downside of Sugarcane-Derived Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to significant issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates deeply into the skin, delivering effective hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable 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.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable results. By choosing botanical squalane oil omega 3 options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace ethical practices but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.