ABSTRACT
Squalene is an all transisoprenoid with six isoprene units. Deep sea shark is the richest source of squalene in nature. In fact, the compound got the name squalene as it was identified from the oil of the deep-sea shark belonging to the genus Squalus. Squalene is present up to 85 percent by weight of liver in deep sea sharks. Squalene is widely present as a component of the unsaponifiable fraction of vegetable oils. Being a saturated hydrocarbon squalene is an excellent emollient oil with an exceptional silky touch. Squalene is commercially produced from two sources, from olive oil and deep sea shark liver oil. Most healthy diets rich in good lipids contain squalene as a naturally occurring constituent, especially one containing olive oil and deep-sea shark liver oil. Squalene is widely used in pharmaceutical formulations as an effective skin moisturizer and also to prevent formation of lines and wrinkles in skin associated with aging process or cancer.
