Squalane Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Phyto Squalane, Shark Squalane, Synthetic Squalane), By Applications Covered (Cosmetics and Personal Care, Nutraceutical Industrial, Others), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Squalane Market Size

The Squalane Market was valued at USD 145.58 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 156.64 Million in 2025, growing to USD 281.46 Million by 2033, reflecting a CAGR of 7.6% over the forecast period [2025-2033].

The US Squalane Market is experiencing substantial growth due to the increasing demand for natural and sustainable skincare ingredients. As consumers are becoming more conscious of the ingredients used in their beauty products, squalane has gained popularity for its moisturizing and anti-aging benefits. The preference for clean beauty products that are free from harmful chemicals has also contributed to squalane’s growing presence in personal care formulations. In addition, the rise of e-commerce platforms has made it easier for US consumers to access a wide range of squalane-infused products, further accelerating market growth. With a strong emphasis on skincare innovation and eco-friendly practices, the US market for squalane is poised to expand significantly.

The squalane market is experiencing significant growth due to its increasing use in various industries, particularly in personal care and cosmetics. Squalane is a naturally derived compound known for its skin benefits, including hydration, anti-aging properties, and promoting skin elasticity. Originally derived from shark liver oil, the industry now primarily uses plant-based sources such as olives and sugarcane due to sustainability concerns. The demand for squalane is rising as consumers seek clean beauty products, contributing to its growing adoption in moisturizers, serums, and other skincare formulations. The market is also expanding in the pharmaceutical sector for its therapeutic properties.

Squalane Market Trends

The squalane market is witnessing key trends driven by consumer preference for natural, sustainable ingredients. Plant-based squalane, derived from sources like sugarcane and olives, is becoming more popular as consumers demand cruelty-free, eco-friendly skincare products. Reports indicate that 50% of skincare consumers prefer products containing plant-derived ingredients due to their natural and safe profile. The market is also benefiting from the increased awareness of clean beauty, with over 40% of beauty brands shifting to formulations free from synthetic chemicals. This movement is aligning with the rise of vegan beauty products, which are seeing a growth of nearly 30%. Additionally, as squalane’s benefits for skin health and anti-aging properties become more widely recognized, its incorporation into a range of skincare products, such as serums, moisturizers, and eye creams, is increasing. The rising popularity of these products is expected to drive the demand for squalane in the coming years.

Squalane Market Dynamics

The dynamics of the squalane market are shaped by consumer demand for natural ingredients in personal care and cosmetics. As awareness of the benefits of squalane spreads, consumers are increasingly seeking it in their skincare routines. Furthermore, sustainability trends in the beauty industry are pushing manufacturers to adopt plant-based squalane sources instead of the traditional shark-derived oil, aligning with global movements toward cruelty-free and environmentally friendly products. Market dynamics are also influenced by technological advances in the extraction processes, which are making the production of high-quality squalane more efficient and cost-effective.

Drivers of Market Growth

"Growing Consumer Demand for Clean and Natural Beauty Products"

The primary driver of the squalane market is the increasing consumer demand for clean, natural, and cruelty-free beauty products. About 45% of consumers now prioritize products with natural ingredients, which is fueling the growth of the squalane market. As consumers become more educated about harmful chemicals in personal care products, the demand for natural, safe, and sustainable alternatives, like squalane, continues to rise. The growing popularity of vegan beauty products also plays a role in this trend, with more than 35% of beauty brands now offering plant-based solutions to cater to this segment. This shift toward cleaner beauty products is expected to further boost squalane adoption in the coming years.

Market Restraints

"High Cost of Plant-Derived Squalane"

A major restraint in the squalane market is the high cost of plant-derived squalane, especially when compared to synthetic alternatives. The extraction process for plant-based squalane, particularly from olives and sugarcane, requires specialized methods that drive up production costs. Reports indicate that approximately 30% of manufacturers in emerging markets opt for synthetic squalane due to budget constraints. The price volatility of raw materials, such as the availability of sugarcane and olives, also affects production costs, leading to higher end-product prices. This price sensitivity in developing markets limits the widespread adoption of squalane in some regions.

Market Opportunities

"Rising Demand for Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Ingredients"

The increasing shift toward sustainability in the beauty and skincare industries presents significant opportunities for squalane. With nearly 40% of consumers willing to pay more for eco-friendly products, there is growing demand for sustainably sourced squalane. This shift toward sustainability is supported by regulations and initiatives promoting the use of renewable materials and environmentally friendly production methods. As governments and organizations emphasize the importance of green practices, manufacturers can seize the opportunity to offer plant-based squalane solutions that meet sustainability standards. As a result, the squalane market is expected to benefit from this growing consumer focus on sustainability and eco-conscious choices.

Market Challenges

"Raw Material Sourcing and Price Volatility"

The squalane market faces challenges in sourcing raw materials, particularly for plant-based squalane. The prices of key materials like olives and sugarcane have been volatile, with fluctuations of up to 25% in recent years. These fluctuations are often due to seasonal changes, agricultural yields, and geopolitical factors. Supply chain disruptions caused by global events have also contributed to the instability in raw material prices, posing a challenge for manufacturers. Furthermore, the cost of sustainable sourcing and ethical production practices can lead to higher costs, which may limit the market potential in price-sensitive regions. As such, securing a consistent and affordable supply of raw materials is a key challenge for the industry.

Segmentation Analysis

The squalane market can be segmented based on type and application, with each segment contributing to its growth. By type, the market is divided into phyto squalane, shark squalane, and synthetic squalane, each offering distinct advantages depending on consumer preference for natural, ethical, or cost-effective solutions. By application, the market spans cosmetics and personal care, nutraceuticals, and others, with cosmetics being the largest segment due to the rising demand for natural beauty and skincare products. Nutraceuticals, driven by growing consumer interest in health supplements, is also witnessing increased demand. Understanding these segments is crucial for market players aiming to target the right consumer base effectively.

By Type

• Phyto Squalane : Phyto squalane, derived from plant-based sources like olives and sugarcane, is the dominant type in the market due to increasing consumer demand for vegan and cruelty-free skincare products. Phyto squalane accounts for approximately 55% of the market share, as it aligns with the growing trend of sustainable beauty. This type of squalane offers excellent moisturizing and anti-aging properties without the ethical concerns associated with shark-derived squalane. As the demand for eco-friendly ingredients continues to rise, phyto squalane is expected to maintain its position as the leading segment.

• Shark Squalane : Historically, shark squalane was the most commonly used form of squalane, as it was extracted from shark liver oil. However, its market share has been decreasing due to rising ethical concerns and the shift towards more sustainable sources. Shark squalane currently accounts for about 15% of the market. As consumers and companies become more environmentally conscious, many are shifting to plant-derived squalane alternatives. Despite this, shark squalane still finds use in certain luxury cosmetic products that highlight its superior stability and skin absorption.

• Synthetic Squalane : Synthetic squalane, produced through chemical processes, has gained popularity due to its cost-effectiveness and wide availability. It represents around 30% of the market share, catering to budget-conscious consumers and companies. While synthetic squalane offers similar benefits to its natural counterparts in terms of hydration and skin protection, it is often seen as a less sustainable option. However, its affordability and ease of production make it a key component in many mass-market personal care products.

By Application

• Cosmetics and Personal Care : The cosmetics and personal care segment is the largest application area for squalane, accounting for approximately 70% of the market share. This is driven by the increasing consumer preference for clean, natural beauty products. Squalane is commonly found in moisturizers, serums, lip balms, and anti-aging treatments due to its ability to hydrate and protect the skin. As awareness of its benefits for skin health grows, more brands are incorporating squalane into their skincare lines, especially in the premium segment.

• Nutraceutical Industry : In the nutraceutical industry, squalane is gaining traction for its potential health benefits, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is increasingly being used in dietary supplements and functional foods. The segment represents about 20% of the market share and is expected to grow as consumers seek natural ingredients to support their health and wellness. The demand for plant-based squalane in this sector is particularly rising, as health-conscious consumers demand more natural and organic solutions.

• Others : The “Others” segment, which includes applications in pharmaceuticals and industrial uses, accounts for the remaining 10% of the market. While smaller compared to cosmetics and nutraceuticals, this segment includes specialized uses such as squalane in injectable formulations and industrial lubricants, where its high stability is valued.

Squalane Regional Outlook

The regional outlook for squalane is diverse, with North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa each contributing significantly to market growth. North America and Europe dominate the squalane market due to high consumer awareness of natural and sustainable ingredients in beauty products. Asia-Pacific is also a key region for growth, driven by increasing demand for cosmetics and personal care products. The Middle East & Africa market is growing, albeit at a slower pace, as the region slowly embraces clean beauty trends and natural skincare solutions.

North America

North America holds a significant share of the squalane market, accounting for about 40% of the global market. The U.S. is the largest consumer of squalane due to its robust beauty and personal care industry. With rising demand for vegan and cruelty-free products, many brands in North America are opting for plant-based squalane in their skincare lines. Furthermore, increasing consumer awareness about the benefits of natural ingredients and clean beauty continues to drive market growth. About 50% of North American consumers are actively seeking natural ingredients, including squalane, in their skincare routines.

Europe

Europe is another key region in the squalane market, representing approximately 30% of the global market share. The European market has a strong inclination toward eco-friendly and sustainable products, driving the demand for plant-derived squalane. Countries like France, Germany, and the UK are leading the charge, with European consumers being highly receptive to clean beauty trends. The European Union’s regulations on cruelty-free products have further boosted the growth of squalane in this region. Approximately 60% of beauty consumers in Europe prefer products containing sustainable and natural ingredients like squalane.

Asia-Pacific

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing significant growth in the squalane market, contributing around 25% to the global market share. Countries such as Japan, China, and South Korea are increasingly adopting squalane in skincare due to growing beauty trends and consumer interest in natural products. The rise of e-commerce and global beauty brands entering the region is also boosting the market. With 45% of consumers in Asia-Pacific opting for plant-based or natural beauty products, squalane’s use in both premium and mass-market skincare products is expected to continue to rise.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa accounts for around 5% of the global squalane market share, with moderate growth potential. The demand for high-end, luxury skincare products is increasing in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where consumers are becoming more interested in clean beauty solutions. Despite the slower growth rate compared to other regions, there is a growing preference for sustainable and natural beauty products. Approximately 30% of consumers in the Middle East are seeking eco-friendly and ethically sourced ingredients, which bodes well for the future of squalane in the region.

LIST OF KEY Squalane Market COMPANIES PROFILED

• Kishimoto

• EFP

• VESTAN

• Maruha Nichiro

• Arista Industries

• Amyris

• Sophim

• Croda

• Nucelis LLC

• Caroiline

• Clariant

• The Innovation Company

• Henry Lamotte OILS GmbH

• Kuraray

• NOF Group

• Ineos

Top Companies

• Amyris – Holds around 25% of the global squalane market share.

• Croda – Accounts for approximately 20% of the market share.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The squalane market presents significant investment opportunities driven by the increasing demand for natural and sustainable ingredients in beauty and personal care products. In recent years, investors have shown growing interest in companies that focus on eco-friendly production processes, such as those utilizing plant-based squalane. The demand for sustainable products is particularly strong in North America and Europe, where the market share of plant-based squalane is approximately 60%. With beauty brands increasingly prioritizing natural formulations, investments in squalane production are expected to continue rising. Moreover, the nutraceutical sector is a promising avenue for growth, as consumers become more health-conscious and seek squalane’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in supplements. This trend is evident as 25% of new nutraceutical products launched incorporate squalane as a key ingredient. Additionally, manufacturers that invest in improving the efficiency of production processes, reducing costs, and enhancing the quality of squalane will likely see long-term benefits, capturing a larger share of the market, especially in price-sensitive regions such as Asia-Pacific, where 35% of consumers are seeking more affordable options without compromising on quality.

NEW PRODUCTS Development

Recent developments in squalane product innovation have focused on improving sustainability and diversifying applications. Leading manufacturers have introduced new squalane products derived from plant-based sources, including sugarcane and olives, which appeal to the growing consumer demand for vegan and cruelty-free beauty products. Around 40% of the new product launches in the beauty industry now feature plant-derived squalane as a key ingredient. In 2023, Amyris launched a new line of squalane-based skincare products that target sensitive skin, utilizing their sustainable fermentation process to produce eco-friendly squalane. Meanwhile, Croda introduced a new high-performance squalane derived from plant-based sources for anti-aging formulations, which has been met with positive responses from skincare professionals. The innovation is not limited to cosmetics alone, as nutraceutical products with squalane are also emerging. Manufacturers are focusing on squalane supplements for skin health, with approximately 15% of new product development dedicated to this category. This diverse range of new products reflects the growing adaptability of squalane in various sectors, from beauty to wellness, with demand for natural and effective ingredients shaping the direction of future developments.

Recent Developments by Manufacturers in Squalane Market 

• Amyris (2024) – Launched a new line of plant-based squalane skincare products aimed at the luxury market. The product received positive reviews for its eco-friendly sourcing and high hydration performance.

• Croda (2024) – Introduced an advanced squalane derived from sugarcane for use in anti-aging and moisturizing skincare, capturing a 5% increase in market share in North America.

• Sophim (2024) – Expanded its production capacity for vegetable squalane to meet the rising demand in Europe, leading to a 10% growth in sales.

• Maruha Nichiro (2024) – Developed a new squalane supplement targeting skin hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits, which has increased its presence in the nutraceutical market by 8%.

• Kuraray (2033) – Invested in sustainable squalane production technology, reducing carbon emissions by 15% in their manufacturing process, furthering their market share in Asia-Pacific by 12%.

REPORT COVERAGE 

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global squalane market, offering insights into market dynamics, key drivers, trends, challenges, and opportunities. It covers the market segmentation by type (phyto, shark, and synthetic) and application (cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and others). Regional analysis highlights the key market players and the growing adoption of sustainable and natural squalane alternatives. The report also delves into the competitive landscape, providing key company profiles, strategies, and recent developments. It tracks the growth of squalane’s use in personal care, skincare, and nutraceutical products, with North America and Europe contributing significantly to market share. The future growth opportunities in emerging markets, such as Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, are also explored, where a shift towards sustainable and natural ingredients is becoming increasingly prevalent, with 35% of consumers actively seeking plant-based beauty solutions.