Squalane oil has secured a important place in the skincare world, admired for its capacity to hydrate, defend, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a key role in determining its ethics and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from multiple major categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was commonly derived from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this approach has major ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested on a massive scale for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and have been widely criticized.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is extracted from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among botanical-based squalane oils, two types stand out: olive-based squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based alternatives, their environmental impact varies greatly.
Why Olive-Derived Squalane Oil Stands Out
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered preferable for ethical purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil provides the same hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
By comparison, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for notable issues. Sugarcane farming consumes excessive volumes of water and often produces environmental degradation. This makes it environmentally taxing than the olive alternative.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers numerous skin-enhancing qualities for every skin type. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Intense Moisture: Squalane oil absorbs efficiently into the skin, delivering long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Non-Comedogenic Benefits: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for even the oiliest skin.
Reduces Fine Lines: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while protecting against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its mild formulation eases irritation, keeping it ideal for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have dry, combination skin, squalane oil offers unparalleled results. By choosing ethical options, especially olive-derived squalane oil, you embrace eco-consciousness but also give your complexion one of the best ingredients available.