Does it come from plant based ingredients?
Squalane and squalene are two ingredients that sound very similar and can often get confused. Squalane is derived from plants and is slightly different in chemical structure and more stable than squalene. Squalene is found in both plants and animals, and is even common in human skin cells!
Squalene has been in the spotlight for several years due to controversy over sourcing. Historically, shark liver has been the staple source of squalene, and deep sea shark fisheries provided ample supply of this ingredient. In recent years, increased awareness has spurred voluntary bans on deep-sea shark fisheries. The European Union has spearheaded these efforts, fortified by cosmetics companies committing to source squalene from alternative sources. This has greatly reduced the over-fishing of sharks. Yay!
Because squalene can be harvested from alternative plant sources, like macadamia nuts, wheat germ, and rice, you can still find both squalene and squalane in cosmetics products. So look closely for transparency in sourcing!
At Pure Mana Hawaii, we use squalene that is 100% sourced from our own sustainably grown Certified Organic Macadamia Nuts. On our family farm on the Big Island of Hawaii, we grow, harvest and press our very own cosmetic grade Certified Macadamia Nut Oil, and we use it as our carrier oil throughout our entire skincare line.
Scientific research has shown that Squalene reduces skin damage by UV radiation, LDL levels, and cholesterol in the blood; reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases; and diminishes the risk of malignant tumors and ovarian, breast, lung, and colon cancer.
Why Use Organic Macadamia Nut Oil on your skin?
You don’t have to cook with macadamia oil to enjoy its protective benefits. Directly applied to the skin, macadamia oil confers similar antioxidant support by enriching the skin with its high levels of antioxidant vitamin E.
Oil has the ability to eliminate toxins and draw out impurities from the body. Simultaneously nourishing and protecting, oils hydrate the skin, soften unwanted lines, and restore skin’s natural balance. The specific vitamin-rich oils we choose have anti-aging and antioxidant properties that help to maintain moisture in the upper layers of the skin tissue. They not only moisturize the skin, but also promote collagen production and cell regeneration to delay aging and protect skin from sun damage and environmental stress. Pure Mana’s comprehensive line of oil blends works well with all skin types and is optimal for mature skin.