Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare industry, celebrated for its ability to moisturize, shield, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and eco-friendliness.
Breaking Down the Origins of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from two key categories: animal-based and vegetable-sourced materials. The choice between these options is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was commonly extracted from the livers of sharks. Sharks are a significant provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Moreover, the practices used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and planet-friendly option. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This method not only aligns with ethical practices but also results in a premium-grade product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, two primary types stand out: squalane oil from olives and squalane oil from sugarcane. While each offer plant-based options, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded 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 properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane farming consumes massive amounts of water and often results in environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers a plethora of skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why squalane oil and fungal acne it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it perfect for easily irritated skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize sustainability but also give your complexion one of the best solutions available.