Most people who use cosmetic products daily may not be aware that some of the products they use actually might contain shark elements. Squalene is a compound that is made from shark liver oil. It is found in commonly used products such as lipstick, foundation and even eyeshadow. Recently, attention has been raised as to how many sharks are killed for this compound to be made.

“I use makeup such as foundation and lipstick, but I was not aware that it could have shark oil in it. In my opinion, it is in a way disturbing that I am using shark on my face even if it’s a small amount,” shared Sophomore Sophie Yetming.

Recent numbers have shown that more than sixty shark species are fished for their liver oil. Twenty-six of those species are on the red list for being vulnerable to extinction. To produce only a ton of squalane it takes about 3000 sharks, most of which are deep sea sharks that are already overfished and in risk of extinction. Many brands that are against animal testing and cruelty-free actually have this oil in their products.

“The topic I hear the most about concerning cosmetics is animal testing, which is a huge problem on its own, but I was not aware that many of the cosmetic brands that claim to be cruelty-free use shark oil in their products. It’s honestly misleading and I don’t agree with the use of squalene in products,” said sophomore Camila Echeverri.

Sharks play an important role in the planet’s ecosystem and should be protected not hunted for cosmetic products that can be made without this oil.

Some brands concerned consumers can support that do not use squalene include L’Oréal, NYX, and Urban Decay. Saavy consumers realize the importance of paying attention to the products they buy and how they can affect the world around them.

“I will definitely be paying more attention to the products I buy after finding this out. It’s disheartening to know that entire species are in danger for cosmetic products,” said sophomore Maria Nordholz.