Plant squalene is a lipids non-saponifiable substance widely distributed in the bodies of most animals and plants. It was initially isolated from shark liver oil and is also referred to as fish liver oil terpenes; vegetable squalene, also known as squalene, is a colorless or yellowish transparent oily liquid with a pleasant odor. It is primarily utilized in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.

Plant squalene readily emulsifies in standard cosmetic formulations (e.g., creams, ointments, sunscreens), making it suitable as a moisturizer in creams (cold creams, cleansers, moisturizing creams), lotions, hair oils, hair creams, lipsticks, essential oils, and powders. It also functions as an antioxidant and free radical scavenger. Additionally, squalene can serve as a high-lipid agent in premium soaps.