Squalene Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Animal–sourced, Vegetable–sourced) , Applications (Cosmetics, Food, Pharmaceuticals, Others) and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Squalene Market size 

The global Squalene Market size was valued at USD 144.98 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 151.36 million in 2025, eventually growing to USD 214.79 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period [2025–2033].

The US Squalene Market is experiencing steady growth, driven by the increasing demand for squalene in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, particularly for its use in skincare products and as a natural antioxidant. The market is also benefiting from growing awareness of the benefits of squalene in health supplements and its use in vaccine adjuvants. Globally, the squalene market is witnessing rising demand for sustainable sources of squalene, with plant-based and bio-squalene gaining traction as alternatives to traditional shark-derived squalene, which is further driving market growth.

Squalene Market Growth

The global squalene market has experienced significant growth in recent years, primarily due to the rising demand for natural and sustainable ingredients across various industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food supplements. Squalene, a naturally occurring compound found in plant oils, shark liver oil, and synthetic sources, has gained immense popularity for its versatility and beneficial properties. The increasing awareness of health and wellness has driven consumers toward products with natural ingredients, further boosting the demand for squalene-based products. Additionally, the global shift towards plant-based alternatives has fueled the adoption of squalene derived from olive oil and other plant sources, as environmental concerns discourage the use of shark-derived squalene.

Moreover, the cosmetic industry plays a pivotal role in the growth of the squalene market, as the compound is widely used as an emollient in skincare products, offering superior moisturizing and anti-aging benefits. The rise in disposable income, particularly in emerging economies, has enabled consumers to invest in premium skincare products, subsequently driving the demand for squalene. In the pharmaceutical sector, squalene’s role as an adjuvant in vaccines has become increasingly significant, especially in light of global immunization efforts. The compound enhances the efficacy of vaccines, making it a critical component in modern medical advancements.

In addition to these factors, the rising preference for dietary supplements containing squalene, due to its antioxidant properties and potential to support immune health, has contributed to the market's upward trajectory. The squalene market is expected to witness continued growth as manufacturers focus on developing innovative extraction methods and expanding the availability of plant-based squalene to meet consumer demands.

Squalene Market Trends

The squalene market is witnessing several key trends that are shaping its growth trajectory. One of the most prominent trends is the increasing adoption of plant-derived squalene as a sustainable alternative to animal-based sources. With heightened consumer awareness about environmental conservation and ethical sourcing, manufacturers are turning to olive oil, sugarcane, and other renewable resources for squalene production. This shift aligns with the growing demand for vegan and cruelty-free products, particularly in the cosmetics and personal care industries.

Another noteworthy trend is the integration of squalene in advanced skincare formulations, where it is combined with cutting-edge ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides to enhance efficacy. The popularity of multifunctional products, which offer hydration, anti-aging, and skin barrier repair, has further elevated the importance of squalene in product development. Moreover, the increasing focus on clean beauty and transparency in ingredient sourcing has led brands to highlight squalene as a hero ingredient in their marketing strategies.

Technological advancements in extraction methods, such as bioengineering and fermentation processes, are also emerging as critical trends. These methods not only ensure a steady supply of high-quality squalene but also address sustainability concerns, paving the way for the compound's adoption in niche applications beyond skincare, including nutraceuticals and biomedicine.

Squalene Market Dynamics

Drivers of Market Growth

The growth of the squalene market is driven by a confluence of factors that reflect evolving consumer preferences and industry advancements. A key driver is the surging demand for natural and organic ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that are free from synthetic chemicals, and squalene's reputation as a natural, skin-friendly emollient makes it a highly desirable ingredient for moisturizers, serums, and sunscreens. This trend is further amplified by the global popularity of clean beauty, which emphasizes eco-conscious and ethical sourcing practices.

Another significant driver is the pharmaceutical sector's reliance on squalene as an adjuvant in vaccine formulations. The compound's ability to enhance immune response has become crucial, particularly during the development and distribution of vaccines for global health crises. As immunization programs expand worldwide, the demand for squalene-based adjuvants is anticipated to rise.

Furthermore, the nutraceutical industry's incorporation of squalene in dietary supplements underscores its role in promoting overall health. Renowned for its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, squalene is gaining traction among health-conscious consumers. Additionally, innovations in synthetic and bioengineered squalene production methods have significantly reduced the industry's dependence on animal-derived sources, making the compound more accessible and sustainable.

The rapid urbanization in developing regions, coupled with rising disposable incomes, is enabling consumers to invest in premium personal care and health products, further driving market growth.

Market Restraints

Despite the promising growth of the squalene market, certain factors act as significant restraints. One of the primary challenges is the ethical and environmental concerns associated with shark-derived squalene. Historically, shark liver oil has been a major source of squalene, but the unsustainable fishing practices and threats to marine biodiversity have drawn criticism from environmental organizations and consumers. This has led to stricter regulations and a declining preference for animal-derived squalene, creating supply chain disruptions and cost fluctuations for manufacturers reliant on this source.

The high production cost of plant-based and synthetic squalene presents another major restraint. Compared to shark-derived squalene, these alternatives require advanced technologies and processes, which can lead to higher market prices. This cost factor may limit the adoption of plant-based squalene in price-sensitive markets, particularly in emerging economies.

Moreover, the lack of awareness about squalene’s benefits among certain consumer segments poses a restraint to its widespread application. While developed markets have embraced squalene in cosmetics and nutraceuticals, many developing regions remain untapped due to limited consumer education and lower disposable incomes.

Lastly, the availability of substitute ingredients, such as synthetic emollients and other antioxidants, can deter the adoption of squalene in certain industries. These substitutes are often more affordable and readily available, posing a competitive challenge to the squalene market.

Market Opportunities

The squalene market is ripe with opportunities driven by advancements in technology, shifting consumer preferences, and expanding applications. A major opportunity lies in the growing demand for vegan and plant-based products. With heightened environmental awareness, the development of squalene from sustainable sources such as olive oil, sugarcane, and bioengineered methods is attracting eco-conscious consumers and creating new avenues for growth in the cosmetics and nutraceutical industries.

The expanding role of squalene in the pharmaceutical sector presents another lucrative opportunity. As an essential adjuvant in vaccine formulations, the demand for squalene has surged in light of global immunization efforts. Manufacturers that can efficiently produce pharmaceutical-grade squalene from ethical sources are well-positioned to capture a significant share of this growing market.

Emerging markets also offer substantial growth potential. Regions such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America are witnessing rising disposable incomes and an increasing focus on skincare and health, driving the demand for premium personal care and nutraceutical products. Companies investing in distribution networks and marketing campaigns in these regions can capitalize on the untapped consumer base.

Additionally, the integration of squalene in innovative product formulations, such as anti-pollution skincare and advanced dietary supplements, can unlock new growth opportunities. Research and development focused on expanding the functional benefits of squalene will enable manufacturers to cater to niche markets and differentiate their offerings in a competitive landscape.

Market Challenges

The squalene market faces several challenges that manufacturers and stakeholders must navigate to sustain growth. One of the foremost challenges is the fluctuating availability of raw materials. For instance, sourcing squalene from olives is dependent on agricultural yields, which can be impacted by climate change and unpredictable weather patterns. Similarly, the shift away from shark-derived squalene has increased reliance on plant-based and synthetic sources, which require advanced technologies and infrastructure, presenting scalability issues.

Regulatory challenges also pose significant hurdles. Stringent regulations regarding the sourcing, production, and labeling of squalene, especially in the European Union and North America, demand compliance with ethical and sustainability standards. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in legal repercussions and tarnished brand reputations.

High production costs remain a persistent challenge. Developing plant-based and bioengineered squalene involves sophisticated processes that may not be cost-effective for small and medium-sized manufacturers. These costs, coupled with the need for significant capital investment in research and development, create barriers to entry for new players in the market.

Another challenge is the competition from alternative ingredients that offer similar benefits at lower costs. Synthetic emollients, for example, provide comparable moisturizing properties and are often preferred by manufacturers looking to cut costs. Additionally, raising consumer awareness about squalene’s unique benefits requires extensive marketing efforts, which can be a significant financial burden for emerging brands.

Segmentation Analysis

The squalene market is segmented by type and application, each playing a vital role in determining market dynamics and growth opportunities. Understanding these segments provides valuable insights into consumer preferences and industry trends.

By Type

The type segment in the squalene market is categorized into animal-based, plant-based, and synthetic squalene. Historically, animal-based squalene, particularly derived from shark liver oil, dominated the market. However, growing ethical concerns and regulatory restrictions have significantly reduced its demand. This has paved the way for plant-based squalene, derived from sources like olives and sugarcane, to gain traction. Plant-based squalene is now the preferred choice among environmentally conscious consumers and industries aiming for sustainability.

Synthetic squalene, produced through advanced bioengineering and fermentation techniques, is also gaining momentum. It offers a sustainable and scalable alternative that meets the demands of pharmaceutical-grade applications. The increasing adoption of synthetic squalene highlights the industry’s commitment to innovation and reducing environmental impact.

By Application

Squalene finds applications across cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food supplements. The cosmetics segment holds the largest market share, driven by the compound’s emollient properties, which make it a staple in moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging products. The rise of clean beauty and consumer preference for natural ingredients has further fueled this demand.

In pharmaceuticals, squalene serves as a critical adjuvant in vaccines, enhancing their efficacy. The growing focus on global immunization programs is expected to boost the demand for squalene in this segment. Additionally, its antioxidant properties have made it a popular ingredient in dietary supplements, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking products that support immune health and overall well-being.

Squalene Market Regional Outlook

The global squalene market exhibits significant growth potential across various regions, driven by factors such as rising consumer awareness, advancements in extraction techniques, and increasing adoption of sustainable sourcing methods. North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa are the key regions contributing to the market’s development, each influenced by unique regional dynamics and consumer preferences.

North America

North America remains a prominent market for squalene, owing to the strong presence of the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. The region’s focus on clean beauty and sustainable products has accelerated the adoption of plant-based and synthetic squalene. Moreover, the demand for vaccine adjuvants in the pharmaceutical sector has further bolstered the market. Leading brands and manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to meet the region’s evolving consumer demands.

Europe

Europe is at the forefront of sustainability, making it a key market for plant-derived squalene. The region’s stringent regulations on animal-based products have driven manufacturers to explore bioengineered and olive oil-derived squalene. Countries like France, Germany, and the UK are witnessing significant demand due to the growing trend of organic cosmetics and nutraceuticals.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is one of the fastest-growing markets for squalene, driven by rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes. The region’s booming cosmetics industry, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, has created a robust demand for high-quality squalene. Additionally, the increasing focus on health supplements and pharmaceuticals is driving growth.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa represent an emerging market for squalene, driven by rising consumer awareness of premium skincare products and dietary supplements. The region’s focus on natural and halal-certified ingredients aligns with the growing adoption of plant-based squalene.

List of Key Squalene Companies Profiled

• Seadragon Marine Oils Limited
• Amyris
• Maruha Nichiro
• Sophim
• Kishimoto Special Liver Oil
• Empresa Figueirense De Pesca
• Nucelis LLC
• Arista Industries
• EKIZ Olive Oil & Soap
• New Zealand Green Health

COVID-19 Impacting Squalene Market

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the squalene market, particularly in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors. The increased demand for vaccine adjuvants brought squalene to the forefront as a critical component in immunization efforts. This surge created supply chain pressures, especially for plant-derived squalene, as manufacturers raced to meet global vaccine production targets. Simultaneously, the cosmetics industry faced disruptions due to lockdowns and reduced consumer spending, leading to a temporary decline in squalene demand. However, the growing trend of health and wellness during the pandemic revitalized the nutraceuticals segment, increasing the adoption of squalene-based dietary supplements.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

Investments in the squalene market are being driven by the growing demand for sustainable, ethical, and high-performance ingredients across industries. Companies are channeling resources into developing innovative extraction methods such as bioengineering and fermentation, which provide sustainable alternatives to shark-derived squalene. These advancements present lucrative opportunities for manufacturers looking to cater to the environmentally conscious consumer base.

Emerging markets like Asia-Pacific and Latin America hold immense potential for market expansion due to their burgeoning cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. Investors focusing on establishing local production facilities and robust distribution networks in these regions stand to gain a competitive edge. Additionally, the growing adoption of nutraceuticals in these markets further strengthens the case for investment in squalene production.

Collaborations between biotech companies and pharmaceutical firms are another area of opportunity, particularly for developing pharmaceutical-grade squalene for vaccine adjuvants. As global health initiatives expand, the need for efficient and scalable squalene production methods will become increasingly critical.

Recent Developments

• Development of bioengineered squalene by leading manufacturers to meet sustainability goals.
• Expansion of plant-based squalene production facilities in Europe and North America.
• Launch of squalene-infused premium skincare products targeting the luxury beauty market.
• Strategic collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and biotech firms for vaccine adjuvant production.
• Introduction of squalene-based dietary supplements in Asia-Pacific to cater to the health-conscious consumer segment.

REPORT COVERAGE of Squalene Market

The comprehensive report on the squalene market provides a detailed analysis of market dynamics, segmentation, regional outlook, and key company profiles. It covers essential aspects such as growth drivers, market restraints, challenges, and opportunities that shape the industry landscape. The report also delves into the impact of COVID-19 on various market segments, highlighting changes in consumer behavior and supply chain dynamics.

In addition to market analysis, the report offers investment insights and identifies potential growth areas across regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. Key topics include advancements in extraction technologies, ethical sourcing practices, and the rising adoption of squalene in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. With detailed segmentation by type and application, the report provides actionable insights for stakeholders.

NEW PRODUCTS

The squalene market has witnessed a surge in product innovations, catering to the growing demand for sustainability and multifunctionality. Leading manufacturers have introduced plant-based squalene oils specifically designed for clean beauty formulations. These products emphasize cruelty-free and eco-conscious sourcing, targeting the rising consumer preference for vegan skincare solutions.

In the pharmaceutical sector, new grades of pharmaceutical-grade squalene have been launched, optimized for use as vaccine adjuvants. These high-purity formulations ensure efficacy and safety, making them indispensable for modern vaccine production. Additionally, bioengineered squalene products are emerging as a revolutionary alternative, offering scalability and environmental benefits.

The dietary supplement market has also seen the introduction of squalene-enriched capsules and powders aimed at promoting skin health and boosting immunity. These products appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking natural antioxidant solutions. The integration of squalene in anti-pollution skincare and nutraceuticals highlights its versatility and growing prominence in the wellness industry.