Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare world, praised for its ability to nourish, defend, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a refined version of squalene, offering improved longevity. squalane oil vs rosehip That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple major sources: animal-based and botanical-based materials. The decision between these options has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and destabilizing marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are inhumane and are environmentally destructive.
Why Botanical Squalane Oil is the Ethical Choice
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is a sustainable and eco-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, removing dependency on animal harvesting. This option ensures humane sourcing but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Understanding Botanical Squalane Oil Sources
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two categories stand out: olive-based squalane oil and squalane oil from sugarcane. While these two offer plant-based options, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that generate fewer emissions. What’s more, olive squalane oil offers the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable eco-concerns. Sugarcane production consumes excessive volumes of water and often causes pollution. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers a plethora of advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, providing profound hydration without causing breakouts.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it great for delicate skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, mature skin, squalane oil offers remarkable advantages. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.