Squalene is a popular skincare ingredient known for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties. While many consumers assume that all squalene is derived from plant-based sources, some cosmetic brands still use shark-derived squalene in their products. This raises concerns among ethical shoppers and environmental advocates who seek cruelty-free and sustainable alternatives.

In this article, we’ll explore what squalene is, why some brands continue to use shark squalene, the ethical and environmental implications, and how to identify brands that use it.

What Is Squalene, and Why Is It Used in Cosmetics?

Squalene is a naturally occurring compound found in human skin, plants, and animals. It is widely used in the beauty industry for its ability to:

Deeply hydrate the skin without clogging pores.
Enhance skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Provide antioxidant protection against free radicals and environmental damage.

Originally, the beauty industry sourced squalene from shark liver oil, as it contains high concentrations of the compound. However, with growing awareness of sustainability and animal welfare, many brands have transitioned to plant-derived squalene sourced from olives, sugarcane, and rice bran.

Despite the availability of plant-based alternatives, some cosmetic brands still use shark squalene due to its lower production cost and higher yield.

Why Are Some Brands Still Using Shark-Derived Squalene?

There are three primary reasons why some brands continue to use shark-derived squalene:

Cost Efficiency – Extracting squalene from shark liver oil is often cheaper than refining it from plant-based sources, especially in countries with fewer regulations on marine conservation.
Higher Yield – Shark liver oil contains a more concentrated form of squalene compared to plant-based alternatives, making it easier to produce in large quantities.
Lack of Transparency in Ingredient Sourcing – Some companies may use shark-derived squalene without openly disclosing its origin, making it difficult for consumers to identify ethically questionable products.

Cosmetic Brands That Have Been Reported to Use Shark Squalene

While many major beauty brands have committed to using plant-based squalene, investigations and reports by conservation organizations have identified certain brands that still use shark-derived squalene. These brands may include:

Smaller, less-regulated companies that produce cosmetics in regions with fewer animal welfare regulations.
Some sunscreen and anti-aging skincare brands that source ingredients from suppliers who may still use shark liver oil.
Certain pharmaceutical and cosmetic hybrid brands that incorporate squalene in medicinal creams and ointments.

Since ingredient sourcing can change over time, it’s important to check recent reports from ethical consumer organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and Bloom Association, which monitor the use of shark squalene in cosmetics.

How to Identify and Avoid Shark Squalene in Cosmetics

If you want to ensure that your beauty products do not contribute to shark exploitation, follow these steps:

1. Read the Ingredient Label Carefully

Look for “squalene” or “squalane” in the ingredient list.
If the product does not specify the source, it’s best to contact the company for clarification.

2. Choose Certified Cruelty-Free and Vegan Brands

Brands with certifications from Leaping Bunny, PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies, or The Vegan Society are more likely to use plant-based squalene.
Look for official labels on the packaging or check the company’s website for sustainability commitments.

3. Research Ethical Brands That Use Plant-Based Squalene

Many well-known skincare and cosmetic brands have committed to using only plant-derived squalene. These include:

Biossance (a pioneer in sugarcane-derived squalane)
The Ordinary
Tatcha
Youth to the People
Herbivore Botanicals
Drunk Elephant

4. Support Brands That Prioritize Sustainability

Companies that are transparent about their ingredient sourcing and environmental impact are more likely to avoid unethical practices.
Some brands actively support marine conservation efforts, helping to protect shark populations worldwide.

The Environmental and Ethical Impact of Shark Squalene

The continued use of shark-derived squalene in cosmetics has severe consequences:

Threat to Shark Populations: Millions of deep-sea sharks are killed every year for their liver oil, contributing to declining populations of already vulnerable species.
Disruption of Marine Ecosystems: Sharks play a vital role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. Overfishing disrupts the balance and harms biodiversity.
Cruelty and Unethical Practices: The methods used to extract squalene from sharks often involve inhumane practices, such as finning and liver removal before the sharks are discarded.

The beauty industry has the power to drive positive change by eliminating the use of shark squalene and promoting ethical alternatives.

Conclusion: Make an Informed Choice

As consumers, we have the ability to influence brands by choosing products that align with ethical and environmental values. By supporting brands that use plant-based squalene and avoiding those that continue to rely on shark-derived sources, we can contribute to the protection of marine life.

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