What is lip gloss made out of whale sperm?

It is a common misconception that lip gloss is made from whale sperm. Lip gloss has never been made from whale sperm. There is no evidence that whale sperm has ever been used in cosmetics.

The substance that may be confusing people is spermaceti, which is a waxy substance found in the head cavities of sperm whales. Spermaceti was historically used in some cosmetics, including some lip balms and creams, but its use has declined dramatically due to ethical concerns surrounding whaling and the availability of synthetic alternatives.

While spermaceti itself is not sperm, the unfortunate similarity in name may be the origin of the misunderstanding.

• Myth: Lip gloss made from whale sperm
• Truth: Spermaceti, a waxy substance from sperm whales, was historically used in some cosmetics.
• Modern Usage: Use of Spermaceti in cosmetics is now rare.