One is derived from the deep ocean waters while the other can be found in certain plants, such as the olive tree. Despite being similar in structure, the quality and efficacy of these two squalene materials couldn’t be any more different.
Naturally present in the human body, squalene (Hexamethyltetracosa Hexaene) is produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. It functions by keeping the skin hydrated and moisturised, as well as providing antioxidant protection against free radical damage. The body’s natural production of squalene slows significantly after the age of 30, which is thought to be one of the main causes of older-looking skin as we age.
Despite being plant-based and renewable, squalene processed from olive, soybean, sunflower and other plant sources are a cheaper and less effective alternative to marine squalene, which is extracted from shark liver oil.
In addition to moisturising the skin, marine squalene has been shown to optimise immune system performance and also stimulate the activity of macrophages. Macrophages are specialised cells involved in the detection and destruction of bacteria, viruses, parasites and other harmful organisms.
The marine-derived form has also been shown to oxygenate the cells and prevent cell oxidation by reactive oxygen species (ROS), a highly toxic free radical that is responsible for the most harm and destruction to cells.
Human studies are very limited when it comes to plant-based squalene, which has to undergo a specialised manufacturing process thought to significantly reduce its level of efficacy. While available at a fraction of the cost, it is not known how many of the health benefits (if any) are still present in this plant-based variety.
One product that harnesses all of the natural power of marine squalene is SE85® Cellular Rejuvenation, which provides the full 800mg optimal dose of squalene in every single serving. Designed for healthy and active adults, this premium healthcare supplement offers anti-aging benefits for both men and women.
Rather than being the result of direct shark hunting, the squalene in SE85 comes from sharks that have accidentally caught by boats fishing for other species. This means that there is an incredibly limited supply of ethical squalene, with no guarantees as to how much can be sourced each year, making it one of the most exclusive healthcare ingredients in the entire world.
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