Shark Liver Oil: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Shark Liver Oil?

Shark Liver Oil is a fatty liquid obtained from the fresh livers of certain cold-water shark species such as Galeorhinus zyopterus and Hypoprion brevirostris. It is rich in glycerides made from medium to long chain fatty acids, many of which are unsaturated. A notable component is squalene, a naturally occurring hydrocarbon that helps give the oil its lightweight yet protective feel.

Coastal communities have used shark liver extracts for skin care traditions for centuries, but large-scale cosmetic use began in the mid-20th century when chemists isolated its stable, skin-friendly lipid profile. Today manufacturers collect shark livers as a by-product of regulated fishing, gently heat them to release the oil, then purify the liquid through filtration and molecular distillation to remove impurities and odor.

Its velvety texture and high affinity for skin lipids make Shark Liver Oil a popular addition to moisturizers, night creams, restorative masks, barrier repair balms, anti-aging serums and after-sun treatments. Formulators value it because it spreads easily, leaves a soft finish and helps carry other active ingredients.

Shark Liver Oil’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In topical products Shark Liver Oil serves more than one purpose, making it a versatile helper in many formulas.

  • Skin Conditioning: The oil replenishes surface lipids, softens rough patches and boosts overall smoothness which can give skin a supple, well-nourished look
  • Skin Protecting: Its occlusive nature forms a light barrier that slows water loss and shields skin from environmental stress, supporting a healthier moisture balance
  • Solvent: Shark Liver Oil can dissolve and evenly distribute oil-soluble vitamins, fragrances and botanical extracts, improving texture and stability of the final product

Who Can Use Shark Liver Oil

Thanks to its rich fatty acid profile Shark Liver Oil suits most normal, dry and mature skin that needs extra nourishment and barrier support. People with very oily or acne-prone skin may find it too occlusive and could prefer lighter emollients.

Because the oil is sourced directly from shark tissue it is not appropriate for vegans or vegetarians who avoid animal-derived ingredients.

No specific research has raised concerns about topical Shark Liver Oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Absorption through intact skin is minimal yet data are limited, so this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products.

The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there is no known interaction with UV exposure. Individuals with confirmed fish or marine allergies should proceed cautiously, as cross-reactivity, while rare, is possible.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Shark Liver Oil vary from one person to another. The points below describe potential side effects, though most users experience none when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or stinging in sensitive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in those with fish or marine allergies
  • Blocked pores and breakouts on oily or acne-prone skin
  • Unpleasant fishy odor if the oil oxidizes in poorly preserved products

If any irritation or other adverse reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 3/5

Shark Liver Oil is rich in mid to long chain fatty acids and forms an occlusive film that can trap dead cells and sebum, which in turn may clog pores on skin already prone to congestion. Its natural squalene content spreads easily and feels light yet the remaining triglycerides tilt the balance toward moderate comedogenicity.

Because of this middle-of-the-road score, the ingredient may not be the best choice for those who regularly experience acne or frequent breakouts.

Comedogenicity also rises if the oil oxidizes, so fresh, well-preserved formulas keep the risk lower than poorly stored products.

Summary

Shark Liver Oil conditions skin by replenishing surface lipids, protects by forming a breathable barrier that slows water loss and works as a solvent that helps dissolve and deliver oil-soluble actives. These roles come from its blend of triglycerides, unsaturated fatty acids and naturally occurring squalene that mimic the skin’s own protective oils.

Once a common staple in richer creams, its popularity has dipped as plant-derived alternatives and sustainability concerns gained ground, but it still appears in select barrier repair balms, after-sun lotions and night treatments aimed at very dry skin.

Topically it is considered low risk for most users when sourced and refined properly, with the main cautions being possible pore clogging on oily skin and rare marine allergies. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to perform a small patch test before full use to ensure your skin tolerates it well.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search