Squalane Cleanser
Squalane Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, soap-free balm-to-oil cleanser powered by plant-derived squalane that dissolves makeup and impurities while supporting your skin's moisture barrier. Leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated without tightness or stripping.
Plant-Derived Squalane
The star ingredient mimics your skin's natural lipids, dissolving makeup and impurities while keeping the moisture barrier intact.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPlant-Derived Squalane
The star ingredient mimics your skin's natural lipids, dissolving makeup and impurities while keeping the moisture barrier intact.
Soap-Free Formula
Uses gentle sucrose esters instead of harsh surfactants, so it cleanses without stripping or drying the skin.
3-Phase Texture
Transforms from balm to oil when rubbed in your palms, then emulsifies to milk on contact with water for easy rinsing.
Barrier-Supportive
Glycerin and squalane work together to hydrate and protect the skin barrier during the cleansing process.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains esters (Ethyl Macadamiate, Sucrose Laurate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate) that may feed malassezia. However, as a rinse-off product, the risk is significantly lower than leave-on products.
Accepted by the National Eczema Association. Gentle, soap-free formula is suitable for eczema-prone and reactive skin.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Will not clog pores. The brand confirms the formula is non-comedogenic.
No fragrances, no sulfates, no harsh alcohols. pH balanced at 5.5–6.5 to match the skin's natural acid mantle.
Compatible with all actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. Safe to use in any skincare routine.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSqualane #1 IngredientProven
A plant-derived, hydrogenated form of squalene that naturally occurs in human sebum. Acts as the primary cleansing agent by dissolving makeup and impurities while simultaneously moisturizing the skin.
- Function: Emollient, cleanser, moisture barrier support
- Source: Plant-derived (sugarcane) squalane from DECIEM
- Research: Non-irritating even at 100% concentration; prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
Glycerin HumectantProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin, keeping it hydrated during the cleansing process and preventing the tight, dry feeling common with other cleansers.
- Function: Humectant, moisturizer, skin protectant
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5 — will not clog pores
- Research: Effective at concentrations as low as 3%; maintains skin lipids in healthy liquid crystal state
Sucrose Esters EmulsifiersProven
A group of sugar-based emulsifiers (Sucrose Stearate, Sucrose Laurate, Sucrose Dilaurate, Sucrose Trilaurate) that trap dissolved makeup and impurities, blending them with water so they rinse away cleanly.
- Function: Emulsifiers that enable the balm-to-oil-to-milk transformation
- Source: Derived from sugar (sucrose) combined with fatty acids
- Benefit: Manufacturer studies show skin is twice as hydrated after using sucrose ester-based cleansers vs. SLS-based ones
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) AntioxidantProven
A naturally occurring antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage. In this cleanser, it helps stabilize the formula and provides mild anti-inflammatory benefits during cleansing.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, formula stabilizer
- Research: Well-studied skin protectant; helps prevent oxidative damage to skin lipids
Malic Acid Trace AHAPromising
A mild alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from apples. Present in a very low concentration to help adjust the formula's pH rather than provide exfoliation. Contributes to the skin-friendly pH of 5.5–6.5.
- Function: pH adjuster, mild exfoliant at higher concentrations
- Note: At the trace amount present in this formula, it acts as a pH buffer, not an active exfoliant
20 ingredients
Squalane, Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Sucrose Stearate, Ethyl Macadamiate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sucrose Laurate, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Sucrose Dilaurate, Sucrose Trilaurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Isoceteth-20, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Malic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step (Prep stage) in your routine. Apply to dry skin before other products. Pairs perfectly with The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser as a double-cleanse routine.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense onto Dry Hands
Squeeze a small amount (about a pea-to-almond size) of cleanser into the palm of your dry hands.
Rub Between Palms for 10–30 Seconds
Warm the product by rubbing your palms together until the balm transforms into a clear, oil-like consistency. This step is essential for activating the cleansing power.
Massage onto Dry Face
Gently massage the oil onto your dry face in circular motions. The squalane will dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities on contact.
Rinse with Warm Water
Add water to emulsify the product into a milky consistency, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a gentle, non-stripping first cleanser
- You have dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- You prefer a soap-free, fragrance-free formula
- You need an effective makeup and sunscreen remover
- You want to support your skin's moisture barrier while cleansing
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You use active ingredients (retinol, acids) and need a gentle cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer a foaming or gel cleanser texture
- You have severe fungal acne and need a strictly FA-safe product
- You want a deep-cleansing, squeaky-clean feel
- You wear very heavy waterproof eye makeup daily (may need extra effort)
- You dislike the balm-to-oil transformation step
- You have very oily skin and prefer a mattifying cleanser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSqualane and glycerin actively hydrate during cleansing. Won't strip or leave skin feeling tight. Ideal for dry, dehydrated complexions.
Fragrance-free, soap-free, and NEA-accepted. pH balanced at 5.5–6.5. One of the gentlest cleansers available.
Effectively cleanses oily zones without overdrying dry areas. Some combination skin types may prefer a foaming second cleanser afterward.
Non-comedogenic and rinses clean. Works best as a first cleanse in a double-cleanse routine for oily skin. Won't add greasiness.
Non-comedogenic formula rated 1/5. Gentle enough not to aggravate breakouts. Follow with a BHA cleanser for deeper pore cleansing.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Softness & Hydration
Skin feels noticeably softer and more hydrated right after the first use. No tightness or dryness. Makeup removal is visibly effective.
90% noticed immediatelyImproved Skin Texture
Consistent use shows smoother, more supple skin. The gentle formula allows other actives in your routine to work better on a clean, hydrated canvas.
75% noticed within 2 weeksReduced Dryness & Irritation
Skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient. Less flakiness, redness, and irritation, especially if you transitioned from a harsher cleanser.
65% noticed within a monthLong-Term Barrier Health
Continuous use supports a healthy moisture barrier. Skin appears calmer, more balanced, and better prepared for active treatments in your routine.
80% reported long-term satisfactionRatings by platform
20K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle; no stripping, tightness, or dryness
- Effective makeup and sunscreen removal
- Affordable price point for the quality
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Leaves skin soft, smooth, and hydrated
- Clean ingredient list with only 20 ingredients
- Travel-friendly squeeze tube packaging
- Works well as first step in double-cleanse
Criticized
- Takes 10–30 seconds to melt; slower in cold environments
- 50ml tube runs out quickly with daily use
- May leave a slight residue for some users
- Struggles with very heavy waterproof eye makeup
- Not a foaming cleanser; may not feel "clean enough" for oily skin
- Balm consistency can feel thick or sticky before melting
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A true cleansing balm with oat kernel oil and sunflower seed oil for soothing and moisturizing. Similar balm-to-oil texture but with more nourishing oils. Better for very dry or irritated skin but not fungal acne safe.
Cream-to-foam formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Larger 473ml bottle offers much better value. Different texture (not a balm) but similarly gentle and hydrating. Better for those who prefer a lighter feel.
An affordable balm cleanser that melts makeup effectively. Contains squalane and hyaluronic acid. Jar packaging is less hygienic than a tube. Similar concept at a lower price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature for optimal balm consistency.
Squeeze tube with flip cap — hygienic, practical, and easy to dispense. Available in 50ml, 150ml, and 240ml sizes.
Yes — the 50ml size is TSA-compliant and under 100ml. Tube packaging makes it convenient and leak-proof for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The formula relies on gentle squalane and sugar-based emulsifiers, making it one of the safest cleanser options for expecting and nursing mothers.
It depends on your sensitivity level. The cleanser contains a few ingredients (Ethyl Macadamiate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Sucrose Laurate, Sucrose Dilaurate, Sucrose Trilaurate) that some databases flag as potentially feeding malassezia. However, because this is a rinse-off product that stays on the skin for only a short time, the risk is significantly lower compared to leave-on products. Many users with fungal acne use it without issues, but those with severe, active malassezia may want to choose a strictly FA-safe cleanser.
Absolutely. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser has zero conflicts with any skincare actives. It is a rinse-off cleanser with a gentle formula, so it won't interfere with or deactivate retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide, or any other treatment product. In fact, its gentle, non-stripping nature makes it an ideal companion to potent actives, as it won't compromise a compromised or sensitized skin barrier.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is best for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types. It excels at hydrating during the cleansing process, which dry and sensitive skin greatly benefit from. Combination and oily skin types can also use it effectively, especially as a first cleanser in a double-cleanse routine. Those with very oily skin may prefer a foaming second cleanser afterward for a more thorough cleanse.
You'll feel the difference immediately — skin feels softer and more hydrated after the very first use. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, most users notice improved overall skin texture and less post-cleansing dryness. After a month, the cumulative benefits of gentle, barrier-supportive cleansing become more apparent, with calmer, more resilient skin overall. As a cleanser, its primary role is gentle cleansing rather than treatment, so the results are more about what it preserves (your moisture barrier) than what it actively treats.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser goes first in your skincare routine — it's a Prep-stage product. Apply it to dry skin as the very first step, before any other products. If you double cleanse, use it as your first cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, then follow with a water-based cleanser like The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser. You can use it in both your morning and evening routines.
No. The Ordinary confirms that this cleanser is non-comedogenic, with a comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. Squalane itself has a comedogenic rating of 0, and the formula is specifically designed to rinse cleanly without leaving pore-clogging residue. It is safe for acne-prone skin when used as directed.
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use it within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use. The 240ml value size is the most economical option if you plan to use it as your everyday cleanser.
Verdict: The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a standout gentle cleanser that earns its cult status. It delivers on its core promise — effective, hydrating cleansing that respects the skin barrier — at an unbeatable price point. Perfect for dry, sensitive, and normal skin types as a daily cleanser, and for all skin types as a first step in a double-cleanse routine. The short ingredient list, fragrance-free formula, and pregnancy-safe profile make it a smart choice for anyone prioritizing clean, gentle skincare. Its only real limitation is the balm texture that requires warming time and may not satisfy those who crave a foaming, "squeaky clean" feel. For the price, quality, and gentleness, it's hard to beat.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sucrose Stearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|