What is Shark Fin Extract?
Shark Fin Extract, also known as Isurus oxyrinchus extract, is a cosmetic ingredient derived from the fin of the shark species Isurus oxyrinchus. This extract is rich in proteins, collagen, and minerals, which are beneficial for skin health. The use of Shark Fin Extract in cosmetics is a relatively recent development, with the ingredient gaining popularity due to its unique properties and benefits.
The process of making Shark Fin Extract involves drying and grinding the shark fins into a fine powder. This powder is then subjected to a solvent extraction process to obtain the extract. The resulting extract is a concentrated source of the beneficial compounds found in the shark fins.
Shark Fin Extract is often compared to other marine-derived ingredients like fish collagen or seaweed extracts. While these ingredients also offer skin benefits, Shark Fin Extract stands out due to its unique composition. It is particularly rich in certain types of proteins and collagen, which are known for their skin conditioning and humectant properties.
Shark Fin Extract is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products. Due to its skin conditioning and humectant properties, it is often found in moisturizers and serums. These products aim to hydrate the skin, improve its texture, and enhance its overall appearance. The emollient properties of Shark Fin Extract also make it a popular ingredient in products designed to soften and soothe the skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Shark Fin Extract.
Humectant
As a humectant, Shark Fin Extract has the ability to attract and retain moisture. This means that when it is used in cosmetic products, it can help to keep your skin hydrated by drawing water from the deeper layers of the skin or from the environment, and holding it on the skin’s surface. This can result in a smoother and softer skin texture, as well as a healthy, glowing appearance.
Skin Conditioning
Shark Fin Extract is also recognized for its skin conditioning properties. This means that it can help to enhance the appearance and feel of your skin. It works by softening and smoothing the skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of roughness or dryness. This can leave your skin feeling more comfortable and looking more radiant.
Emollient
As an emollient, Shark Fin Extract can help to soften and soothe the skin. Emollients work by forming a protective layer on the skin’s surface that helps to lock in moisture and prevent water loss. This can help to keep your skin hydrated and supple, and can also provide a smooth and soft texture to your skin.
Please note that these benefits are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Shark Fin Extract. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, it is important to remember that the effectiveness of Shark Fin Extract, like any cosmetic ingredient, can vary depending on factors such as your skin type and the other ingredients used in the product.
Safety Profile
Shark Fin Extract is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. However, it’s important to note that the extraction of this ingredient has raised ethical and environmental concerns due to the practice of shark finning, which is considered inhumane and unsustainable.
As for its safety, Shark Fin Extract is generally considered safe for topical use. It is not known to be a common allergen, making it suitable for most skin types. However, as with any cosmetic ingredient, individual reactions can vary.
Potential side effects of topical application of Shark Fin Extract may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
These side effects are not common and are typically associated with overuse or individual sensitivity. As always, it is recommended to perform a patch test before using a product containing Shark Fin Extract widely on the skin.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), as well as other various publicly available sources.
