Squalane Cleanser — Reddit Reviews
by The Ordinary
Updated August 19, 2026
Squalane-based balm-to-oil cleanser that melts makeup without stripping; can irritate sensitive skin.
What the community says
A gentle balm cleanser that emulsifies with water to remove makeup and SPF efficiently. It suits dry to sensitive skin seeking hydration without foam or tightness. Beware if prone to sensitivity or rosacea, as it occasionally triggers irritation or breakouts.
What this means for you
What people love
- Balm-to-oil texture that melts makeup easily
- Fragrance-free and cruelty-free formula
- Hydrating, non-foaming cleanser that avoids stripping
Watch out for
- Can cause irritation or itching on sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- Sometimes leaves oily residue if not emulsified well
- Not ideal for users prone to acne or breakouts
Product details
Skin Type
Product Traits
Key Ingredients
Where to buy
Real Reddit threads — 157 mentions across 29 threads
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser on Reddit, in one place — 29 threads from r/SkincareAddiction, r/tretinoin and 7 more, summarized.
“The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser - 5/10”
Cautionary
“Pros: Unscented, affordable.”
Cautionary
“Cons: Made my skin itch and left a residue.”
Cautionary
“The Ordinary Squalene Cleanser (if I wore makeup)”
Positive
“Evening:”
Positive
“mostly used the Ordinary and Cerave products”
Positive
“PM - The Ordinary squalene oil cleanser, Aveeno oat cleanser, Trenton 0.025%, Purito oat moisturizer”
Positive
“I only oil cleanse because I wear makeup so it helps get concealer/foundation off”
Positive
“I like the squalene oil cleanser bcs the ingredients list is super simple!”
Positive
“Cetaphil gentle cleanser or TO squalane cleanser”
Positive
“TO squalane cleanser”
Positive
“PM- remove any makeup with micellar water -Cetaphil gentle cleanser or TO squalane cleanser”
Positive
“The only thing I would repurchase is the squalane cleanser.”
Positive
“I just never found anything I really liked.”
Positive
“would repurchase”
Positive
“TO Squalane Cleanser”
Positive
“you know you can actually use the squalane cleanser as a first oil cleanse instead of the oat cleanser”
Positive
“[AM] TO Squalane Cleanser”
Positive
