Caring Squalane Cream Cleanser
Caring Squalane Cream Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A luxuriously nourishing cream-to-oil-to-milk cleanser that melts away makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while keeping your skin barrier hydrated and protected. Formulated by dermatologists with squalane, grapeseed oil, and rice bran oil for balanced to dry skin types.
Triple Transformation Technology
Starts as a cream, melts into an oil to dissolve makeup, then emulsifies into a milk for easy rinsing without residue.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Transformation Technology
Starts as a cream, melts into an oil to dissolve makeup, then emulsifies into a milk for easy rinsing without residue.
Barrier-Protecting Formula
Squalane and glycerin work together to prevent trans-epidermal water loss while cleansing, keeping skin hydrated.
Plant-Based Nourishment
Grapeseed and rice bran oils deliver antioxidants and essential fatty acids to nourish while cleansing.
Designed for Active Users
Formulated by dermatologists to work alongside retinoids, tretinoin, and other prescription actives without irritation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Free from ingredients of concern during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Contains grapeseed oil and rice bran oil which can feed Malassezia yeast. Research shows rice bran oil supports robust fungal growth. Avoid if you have fungal acne.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Squalane is non-comedogenic (0), while grapeseed (1) and rice bran (2) oils have very low pore-clogging potential.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulation with minimal ingredients. Gentle enough for reactive and sensitized skin when used with actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGrapeseed Oil (Vitis Vinifera) 1st PositionProven
A lightweight, antioxidant-rich oil from grape seeds that makes up the primary base of this cleanser. Rich in linoleic acid (55-77%) which is beneficial for acne-prone skin and helps dissolve makeup effectively.
- Linoleic Acid: 55-77% composition helps balance sebum production
- Vitamin E: Natural antioxidant protection against environmental damage
- Polyphenols: Grape-derived compounds with anti-inflammatory benefits
Squalane 5th PositionProven
A skin-identical hydrocarbon that mimics your skin's natural sebum. Provides exceptional moisture retention without feeling greasy or causing breakouts.
- TEWL Prevention: Creates an occlusive barrier to prevent moisture loss
- Non-Comedogenic: Rating of 0 - will not clog pores
- Malassezia Safe: Pure squalane does not feed fungal acne
Rice Bran Oil (Oryza Sativa) 4th PositionProven
A nourishing oil rich in gamma-oryzanol and vitamin E. Provides emollient benefits and helps form an occlusive layer to retain moisture.
- Gamma-Oryzanol: Unique antioxidant compound for UV protection
- Ferulic Acid: Stabilizes other antioxidants and provides anti-aging benefits
- Essential Fatty Acids: Helps maintain skin barrier integrity
Glycerin 7th PositionProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Helps maintain the skin's lipid barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state.
- Humectant Action: Attracts water molecules to hydrate skin
- Barrier Support: Effective from 3% concentration for dry skin benefits
- Zero Irritancy: Comedogenic rating of 0, irritancy rating of 0
13 ingredients
Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil, Aqua, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Oryza Sativa Bran Oil, Squalane, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Glycerin, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Cetearyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 in double cleansing routine. Best for PM use to remove sunscreen and makeup. Can be used AM for dry skin types. Follow with a water-based cleanser for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense onto Dry Hands
Pump 1-2 pumps of cleanser into completely dry palms. Do not wet face or hands first.
Warm and Massage
Rub palms together for 10-30 seconds until the cream melts into a clear oil consistency. Massage onto dry face in circular motions.
Add Water to Emulsify
Wet fingertips with warm water and continue massaging. The oil transforms into a milky texture, lifting impurities.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with warm water until all residue is removed. Follow with your water-based cleanser for double cleansing.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, normal, or mature skin
- You wear makeup or mineral sunscreen daily
- You use retinoids, tretinoin, or prescription actives
- You prefer fragrance-free skincare
- You want a gentle first cleanse option
- Your skin feels tight after cleansing
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have seborrheic dermatitis
- You prefer gel or foam cleansers
- You have very oily skin that doesn't tolerate oils
- You want a one-step cleanser (this works best with double cleansing)
- You're sensitive to PEG ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal choice. Oil-based formula deeply nourishes without stripping natural moisture. Leaves skin soft and hydrated.
Great daily cleanser that maintains skin balance. Perfect for those using active ingredients.
Works well as first cleanse. Follow with gel cleanser on T-zone for best results.
May feel too rich for daily use. Consider Dermatica's Balancing Glycerin Gel Cleanser instead.
Fragrance-free and gentle formula. Patch test first if extremely reactive.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5), but NOT suitable for fungal acne. Good for bacterial acne sufferers.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Clean, Soft Skin
Makeup, sunscreen, and impurities effectively removed. Skin feels clean without tightness or dryness.
95% noticed instant softnessImproved Hydration
Skin barrier begins to strengthen. Less post-cleanse tightness. Better moisture retention throughout the day.
80% reported improved comfortBetter Active Tolerance
Enhanced barrier function allows better tolerance of retinoids and acids. Less irritation from prescription treatments.
75% saw improved retinoid toleranceHealthier Skin Overall
Balanced, supple skin with improved texture. Consistent gentle cleansing supports long-term skin health.
85% continued repurchasingRatings by platform
723+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent makeup and sunscreen removal
- Leaves skin soft and hydrated, never tight
- Works perfectly with retinoid routines
- Fragrance-free and gentle formulation
- Unique cream-to-oil-to-milk texture
- Hygienic airless pump packaging
- Short, clean ingredient list (only 13)
- Affordable price point for quality
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains triggering oils)
- Requires double cleansing for complete removal
- Takes time to melt (30-60 seconds)
- May feel too rich for oily skin types
- Some users find The Ordinary version works better
- Only available in one size (150ml)
- Contains PEG ingredients (some avoid these)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar concept with squalane base. Contains 20 ingredients with sucrose esters instead of plant oils. More widely available and fan-favorite. Also cream-to-oil texture.
Lighter oil-based cleanser at lower price point. Contains squalane but different oil base. Fragrance-free option available. Different texture (true oil vs cream).
Balm texture rather than cream. Contains colloidal oatmeal for extra soothing. Good for very dry or eczema-prone skin. Different main ingredients but similar gentle approach.
Different category (lotion cleanser vs oil). Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Better for morning use. Won't remove heavy makeup/SPF as effectively but excellent for gentle daily cleansing.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C / 59-77°F).
Airless pump bottle - prevents contamination and oxidation, dispenses product hygienically
Yes - 150ml is over 100ml limit for carry-on. Check in luggage or purchase travel size if available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters that are typically avoided during pregnancy. The formula consists of gentle plant oils (grapeseed, rice bran), squalane, and glycerin. However, Dermatica recommends consulting your GP or dermatologist if you have any concerns about using skincare products during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains grapeseed oil and rice bran oil, both of which can feed Malassezia yeast. Scientific research has specifically shown that rice bran oil supports robust growth of Malassezia species. While squalane itself is safe for fungal acne, the other oils in this formula make it unsuitable for those prone to Malassezia folliculitis. Consider The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser or a dedicated fungal acne-safe option instead.
Absolutely! This cleanser was specifically designed by dermatologists to work alongside active ingredients including retinoids, tretinoin, retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. Its gentle, non-stripping formula helps maintain skin barrier function, which can reduce irritation from these actives. Use this cleanser as Step 1 to remove sunscreen and makeup, then apply your actives on clean skin.
This cleanser is best suited for dry, normal, and combination skin types. It's particularly excellent for dry and mature skin due to its nourishing oil content. It's also great for anyone using prescription retinoids who needs a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Those with very oily skin may find it too rich for daily use. Not recommended for those with fungal acne or seborrheic dermatitis.
You'll notice immediate results - skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated right after use without any tightness. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you should notice improved hydration levels and less post-cleanse discomfort. After 3-4 weeks, many users report better tolerance to active ingredients like retinoids. The key is consistent use as part of a double-cleansing routine.
This cleanser is Step 1 in a double-cleansing routine. Apply it to dry skin first to dissolve and remove oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum. After rinsing, follow with a water-based cleanser (like Dermatica's Balancing Glycerin Gel Cleanser) to remove any remaining residue. Use primarily in the evening, but can also be used in the morning for dry skin types.
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, meaning it has very low pore-clogging potential. Squalane (the star ingredient) has a comedogenic rating of 0, grapeseed oil is rated 1, and rice bran oil is rated 2. Since this is a rinse-off product, the risk of clogged pores is even lower. However, always double cleanse to ensure complete removal of the product.
The Dermatica Caring Squalane Cream Cleanser has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The airless pump packaging helps preserve the formula by preventing air and bacteria from entering the container, maximizing shelf life. With typical twice-daily use, the 150ml bottle should last approximately 2-3 months, well within the 12-month PAO window.
Verdict: The Dermatica Caring Squalane Cream Cleanser is an excellent choice for dry to normal skin types seeking a gentle, nourishing first cleanse. Its dermatologist-developed formula effectively removes makeup and sunscreen while supporting the skin barrier - perfect for those using prescription retinoids. The short ingredient list and fragrance-free formula are standout features. However, it's important to note this cleanser is NOT suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to the grapeseed and rice bran oils. For most users, it delivers on its promises of gentle yet effective cleansing at a competitive price point.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
|
|
| 0 |
Oryza Sativa Bran Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|






