Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare market, admired for its ability to hydrate, shield, 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. That said, not all squalane oil is the same. Its source plays a crucial role in determining its ethics and effect on the planet.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key sources: sourced from animals and botanical-based materials. The preference between these options carries significant ethical implications.
The Controversy of Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was often derived from the livers of sharks. Sharks are known to be provider of squalene, which is transformed into squalane oil. Regrettably, this practice has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, causing the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. Moreover, the methods used are unsustainable and are environmentally destructive.
The Rise of Plant-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, plant-derived squalane oil is an ethical and eco-friendly option. It is sourced from plants, removing dependency on animal slaughter. This approach addresses animal welfare concerns but also produces a high-quality product for skincare use.
Two Key Sources of squalane oil in nigeria Botanical Squalane Oil
Among plant-derived squalane oils, a pair of types stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-derived squalane oil. While these two offer plant-based options, their sustainability varies greatly.
Olive Squalane: A Superior Choice
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable reasons. Olives are a plentiful resource that generate fewer emissions. Additionally, olive squalane oil provides comparable hydrating and skin-rejuvenating properties as its sugarcane-derived counterpart.
Environmental Concerns with Sugarcane Squalane Oil
On the other hand, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is responsible for substantial environmental challenges. Sugarcane cultivation requires excessive volumes of water and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes less eco-friendly than olive-derived options.
Squalane Oil: A Skin Savior
Squalane oil offers countless skin-enhancing qualities for all skin types. Here’s why it shines in skincare:
Deep Hydration: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, providing effective hydration without clogging pores.
Balancing for Oily Skin: Its lightweight texture makes it ideal for even the oiliest skin.
Fights Signs of Aging: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Soothing for Sensitive Skin: Its mild formulation reduces redness, rendering it ideal for reactive skin.
Why Squalane Oil Deserves a Spot in Your Routine
Whether you have sensitive, combination skin, squalane oil delivers incredible advantages. By choosing ethical options, most notably olive-derived squalane oil, you support sustainability but also treat your skin to a highly effective ingredients available.