Squalane oil has gained a important place in the skincare industry, praised for its power to hydrate, protect, and revitalize the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid innately found in human skin cells, squalane oil is a stabilized version of squalene, offering a longer shelf life. However, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a key role in determining its moral standing and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be sourced from a pair of major categories: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The decision between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was frequently sourced from shark liver oil. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has severe ethical issues. Millions of sharks are harvested annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. In addition, the processes used are highly unethical and raise global concerns.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, botanical-based squalane oil is an ethical and environmentally conscious solution. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This approach not only aligns with ethical practices but also delivers a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, two sources stand out: squalane oil from olives and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While both offer plant-based options, their sustainability differs significantly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is considered the superior choice for sustainable reasons. Olives are a renewable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as squalane oil from sugarcane.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is linked to notable environmental challenges. Sugarcane production consumes large quantities of water and often results in environmental degradation. Thus, it is environmentally taxing than squalane oil from olives.
Why Squalane Oil is Good for Your Skin
Squalane oil offers numerous benefits for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps deeply into the skin, delivering effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it suitable for squalane oil in arabic even the oiliest skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have dry, mature skin, squalane oil provides remarkable results. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you not only prioritize ethical practices but also ensure your beauty routine includes one of the best products available.