Is Squalene vegan?
Depends
Short answer
Squalene is depends. Squalene was historically harvested from shark liver. Plant-derived squalane is now common and vegan.
Key takeaways
- Verdict: Squalene is depends.
- Commonly found in: Moisturizers and serums, Sunscreens, Hair products, Some vaccines (as an adjuvant).
- Vegan alternatives: 'Plant-derived squalane' or 'olive squalane' (look for the wording on the label), Brands like Biossance use 100% sugarcane squalane.
- Also listed as: squalane.
- Scan any barcode with VeggieOS (100% free) for an instant vegan verdict.
Also known as: squalane
What it is
An oil naturally found in shark liver, olives, sugarcane and amaranth.
Why depends
Shark squalene is not vegan. Olive- or sugarcane-derived squalane (the stable hydrogenated form) is vegan and explicitly labeled.
Where you'll find it
- Moisturizers and serums
- Sunscreens
- Hair products
- Some vaccines (as an adjuvant)
Vegan alternatives
- 'Plant-derived squalane' or 'olive squalane' (look for the wording on the label)
- Brands like Biossance use 100% sugarcane squalane
FAQ
- Is squalane in skincare usually vegan now?
- In Western markets, yes — most squalane today is sugarcane- or olive-derived, but always verify on the brand's site.