Where Does Squalane Come from?

Squalene can be harvested from the liver of sharks, which isn't environmentally friendly or sustainable. When shopping for squalane, look specifically for oils that are 100 percent plant-derived. Some skin care lines use squalane from plants, not sharks. Oil derived from plants is cruelty-free and sustainable.

Does squalane come from sharks?

Squalene is a compound that comes from shark liver oil (along with squalane, a derivative of squalene). Shark livers are made up of a high concentration of fatty acids, making them integral for a shark's survival at lower ocean depths.

Is squalane vegan?

Unfortunately, squalene is obtained from shark liver oil. ... Luckily, squalene can be completely vegan—and non-gross! —thanks to olive oil, rice bran oil, and amaranth oil.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.