Squalane oil has gained a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its ability to moisturize, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid naturally produced in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. Still, not all squalane oil is the same. Its origin plays a key role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple major origins: sourced from animals and plant-derived materials. The preference between these categories is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
In the past, squalane oil was frequently derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical issues. Millions of sharks are killed on a massive scale for their livers, contributing to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the practices used are unsustainable and raise global concerns.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly option. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal harvesting. This method addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based choices, their sustainability differs significantly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as the superior choice for ethical reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating qualities as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires massive amounts of water and often results in pollution. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for every skin type. Here’s why it stands out how do you use squalane oil on your face in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it perfect for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, normal skin, squalane oil offers incredible advantages. By choosing plant-based options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace sustainability but also treat your skin to a highly effective solutions available.