Plant-Based Squalane vs Shark Derived Squalane: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to skincare, the names squalane and squalene often pop up in ingredient lists. While they may sound similar, these two ingredients have key differences in their origin, benefits, and how they affect your skin. In this blog, we will explore the differences between plant-based squalane and regular squalene, helping you make the best choice for your skincare routine.
What is Squalane?
Squalene is a naturally occurring compound found in both plants and animals. It is a hydrocarbon, which means it consists of carbon and hydrogen. Squalene is produced by our skin cells as part of the sebum (the oily substance produced by glands) that helps keep the skin hydrated and protected. It can also be found in various natural sources, including olives, rice bran, sugarcane, and shark liver oil.
Regular Squalane (Shark-Derived)
Traditionally, squalene was sourced from shark liver oil due to its high concentration. It was used for many years in cosmetics and skincare products for its deep moisturizing and skin-smoothing benefits. However, with concerns about animal cruelty and sustainability, the use of animal-derived squalene has decreased significantly.
What is Squalane?
Squalane is the hydrogenated form of squalene. This process turns squalene into a more stable, shelf-stable ingredient that is less likely to oxidize. Both squalane and squalene share similar skin benefits, but squalane is the preferred ingredient in modern skincare due to its long-lasting properties.

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Plant-Based Squalane (Vegetable-Derived)
In response to ethical and environmental concerns, plant-based squalane has gained popularity. Extracted from plants like olives, sugarcane, and rice bran, plant-based squalane offers the same skin benefits as its animal-derived counterpart but with a more sustainable, cruelty-free approach.
Key Differences Between Plant-Based Squalane and Regular Squalene
1. Source of Origin
Regular Squalene: Historically sourced from shark liver oil, though it can also come from plant-based sources like olives or wheat germ.
Plant-Based Squalane: Extracted from plant oils like olives, sugarcane, and rice bran, making it a more ethical and environmentally friendly option.
2. Stability
Regular Squalene: Prone to oxidation, which can reduce its shelf life and make it unstable in skincare formulations.
Plant-Based Squalane: Highly stable and resistant to oxidation, ensuring a longer shelf life and more consistent performance in skincare.
3. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Regular Squalene: Sourcing from sharks raises concerns about animal welfare and sustainability. The practice is increasingly discouraged.
Plant-Based Squalane: More sustainable, cruelty-free, and eco-conscious, as it comes from renewable plant sources.
4. Skin Benefits
Both squalane and squalene have similar benefits for the skin, but squalane is the more commonly used version in skincare due to its stability and versatility. Here’s how both ingredients benefit the skin:
Hydration: Both forms provide deep hydration by helping to lock moisture into the skin, preventing water loss.
Anti-Aging: Squalane helps to smooth fine lines and improve skin elasticity by increasing moisture retention.
Non-comedogenic: Both squalane and squalene are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores, making them suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Benefits of Plant-Based Squalane in Skincare
1. Superior Moisturization
Plant-based squalane is an excellent emollient that deeply moisturizes the skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth without being greasy. It helps replenish lost moisture while maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
2. Non-Irritating and Gentle
Unlike some heavier oils, plant-based squalane is light and absorbs quickly into the skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin. It is unlikely to cause irritation or breakouts, even for those with acne-prone skin.
3. Anti-Aging Properties
By improving the skin’s ability to retain moisture, plant-based squalane can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It keeps the skin looking plump, youthful, and radiant by boosting hydration levels and improving elasticity.
4. Protects the Skin Barrier
Plant-based squalane strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, which is essential in defending against pollutants and environmental stressors. A healthy skin barrier locks in moisture and prevents harmful substances from entering the skin.
How to Use Squalane in Your Skincare Routine
Both plant-based squalane and regular squalene can be incorporated into your skincare routine in a variety of ways. Here’s how to use them effectively:
1. As a Moisturizer
Apply a few drops of plant-based squalane directly to your skin after cleansing. It will provide instant hydration, leaving your skin smooth and soft. You can also mix it with your favorite moisturizer for an added boost of moisture.
2. In Your Serum or Oil Blend
Use squalane as a serum or in a blend with other nourishing oils. Its lightweight texture makes it a perfect addition to facial oils without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
3. As an Eye Cream
Squalane can also be applied to the delicate skin around the eyes to help reduce puffiness and smooth fine lines. Its moisturizing properties keep the skin hydrated and refreshed.
4. As a Hair Treatment
Squalane isn’t just for the skin—it can also be used to nourish dry hair and scalp. Apply a few drops of squalane to your hair ends to smooth frizz or hydrate the scalp.
Which is Better for You: Plant-Based Squalane or Regular Squalene?
In most modern skincare routines, plant-based squalane is the superior option. It is more stable, sustainable, and cruelty-free compared to regular squalene, especially when sourced from sharks. If you’re looking for a product that hydrates, smooths and protects the skin without any ethical concerns, plant-based squalane is your best bet.
Regular squalene may still be used in some older formulations, but its instability makes it less effective over time compared to plant-based squalane.
Final Thoughts
Whether you opt for plant-based squalane or regular squalene, both offer fantastic skincare benefits. However, if you’re looking for an ingredient that is sustainable, effective, and gentle on the skin, plant-based squalane is the clear winner. It hydrates, repairs, and protects the skin without the environmental and ethical concerns of animal-derived squalene. Add it to your skincare routine today for hydrated, youthful-looking skin.