Squalane oil has earned a prominent place in the skincare industry, praised for its ability to nourish, 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 improved longevity. However, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its sustainability and environmental impact.
Where Squalane Oil Comes From
Squalane oil can be derived from a pair of major origins: animal-derived and vegetable-sourced materials. The decision between these sources has serious ethical ramifications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Traditionally, squalane oil was commonly derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be repository of squalene, which is processed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this approach has serious ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed annually for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and damaging marine ecosystems. Furthermore, the processes used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is a more responsible and planet-friendly solution. It is produced from plants, eliminating the need on animal slaughter. This approach ensures humane sourcing but also produces a high-quality product for skincare routines.
Two Key Sources of Botanical Squalane Oil
Among best squalane oil uk botanical-based squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While both offer botanical options, their environmental impact is not the same.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is viewed as the superior choice for environmental reasons. Olives are a sustainable resource that are minimally wasteful. What’s more, olive squalane oil retains 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 associated with significant issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often results in pollution. As a result, it becomes environmentally taxing than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it stands out in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil penetrates efficiently into the skin, offering profound hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil helps to combat the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Gentle Yet Effective: Its pure formulation soothes sensitivity, keeping it great for easily irritated skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil provides incredible results. By choosing botanical options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a superior ingredients available.