
100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalane — Reddit Reviews
by The Ordinary
Updated August 19, 2026
Fast-absorbing, lightweight squalane oil softens skin without greasy residue; may dry some.
What the community says
A 100% plant-derived dry oil that absorbs quickly without leaving shine and suits oily skin types. It’s favored for adding moisture without heaviness but can dry out very dry skin if used alone. Best layered or mixed with creams for balance.
What this means for you
What people love
- Very lightweight dry-oil texture absorbs extremely fast
- Leaves no greasy or shiny finish on skin
- Blends well with moisturizers and foundation for added hydration
Watch out for
- Can cause significant dryness when used alone on dry skin
- Some users report inferior absorption compared to pricier squalane oils
- Not ideal as a solo moisturizer for those with dry or sensitive skin
Product details
Skin type data limited
Where to buy
Real Reddit threads — 5 mentions across 3 threads
The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalane on Reddit, in one place — 3 threads from r/scacjdiscussion, summarized.
“The Ordinary Hemi-Squalane — fastest absorbing “oil” I’ve ever used that leaves no greasy finish, which allows me to add a lot.”
Positive
“It also helps that since Squalane is naturally found in human sebum, so using a ton of this is not likely to mess with the pH of the skin barrier”
Positive
“leaves no greasy finish”
Positive
“The Ordinary Hemi Squalane: As I have oily, acne-prone skin, I don’t like products that feel greasy or heavy. This stuff is great.”
Positive
“It’s almost watery and has the texture of a dry oil.”
Positive
“It sinks in quickly without making me look shiny, my skin is softer and it isn’t as oily anymore.”
Positive
“100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalane... my favourite product”
Positive
“Because it’s a very dry oil it absorbs extremely well”
Positive
“5 drops to damp hair to reduce frizz”
Positive
Other variants in this line
Same formula family — here’s what changes between them.


