The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser — balm-to-oil formula with plant-derived squalane as the primary ingredient, emulsified with polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate. Removes SPF and waterproof makeup without sulfate surfactants. Fragrance-free, silicone-free, non-comedogenic. Available at major online retailers. requires thorough emulsification with wet hands before rinsing — the residue complaints that dominate negative user reviews are almost entirely attributable to insufficient water in the emulsification step rather than a formulation problem; too heavy as a full-face standalone application for very oily skin types; the 50ml tube empties faster than expected relative to the price, with daily full-face use lasting approximately 4–6 weeks; not always stocked in brick-and-mortar drugstores, making online ordering the primary access channel for most shoppers.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is the fragrance-free, silicone-free first-step option — a balm-to-oil formula with plant-derived squalane as the primary ingredient (mimicking the squalane component of human sebum, which is why it works for sensitive and acne-prone skin alike) and polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate as the emulsifier. It removes SPF and waterproof makeup without sulfate surfactants and without silicone buildup. The honest weakness is technique-dependent: emulsification requires thorough water contact on wet hands before rinsing, and the residue complaints that dominate negative reviews are almost entirely from users who did not add enough water at that step. The 50ml tube also empties faster than its price implies, lasting 4-6 weeks of daily full-face use.

▶ Video review

let’s talk: the ordinary squalane cleanser 🤔🧽