What is Squalane?

Wikipedia: Squalane was traditionally sourced from the livers of sharks, with approximately 3000 required to produce one ton of squalane. Squalane is a hydrocarbon derived by the hydrogenation of squalene.

Squalane.

What is Squalene?

According to PETA: Squalene is Oil from shark livers, etc. In cosmetics, moisturizers, hair dyes, surface-active agents. Alternatives: vegetable emollients such as olive oil, wheat germ oil, rice bran oil, etc.

Shark Liver Oil: Used in lubricating creams and lotions. Derivatives: Squalane, Squalene. Alternatives: vegetable oils.

It is an ingredient used in cosmetics and it is becoming very popular: squalane Market Siz

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Sharks are considered high in mercury and other heavy metals because they are large fish.

Studies: Sharks are long-lived apex predators which can accumulate toxic metals such as mercury and arsenic

Sharks are at risk of extinction. 

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What is Pristane?

Obtained from the liver oil of sharks and from whale ambergris. (See Squalene, Ambergris.) Used as a lubricant and anti-corrosive agent. In cosmetics. Alternatives: plant oils, synthetics.

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Vegan alternative

Squalane and squalene can be sourced from plants.

Research has identified that squalene can be produced from olive, plants, algae, bacteria, and yeasts, some of which are cost-effective and can produce at least as much squalene as sharks.

Squalane derived from sustainable sugarcane, a purer, vegan, more ethical, and more effective version than other forms of squalane

How do we need to approach squalane, squalene in products?

It is not easy to know if the squalene was harvested sustainably, came from non-threatened shark species, or was non-shark-derived. We need to investigate the brand and demand the source of these ingredients. If they don’t mention it on their website chances are it is not plant sourced. if we can’t get an answer better skipping the products until we get clarification.

When you see these ingredient buy only PETA-approved products!