The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Review — The Softest Way to Say Goodbye to Makeup

Some cleansers strip. Some soothe. The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser somehow manages to do both — it dissolves makeup and sunscreen effortlessly, yet leaves your skin feeling like silk. It’s not loud or fancy, but it’s quietly one of the best budget cleansers on the market.

Texture & Feel

The texture is unlike most cleansers — a creamy balm that melts into a soft oil when warmed between your palms. It smells like nothing, feels like comfort, and rinses without residue. Even mascara gives up without a fight.

My First Impressions

I used it after a long day wearing SPF and tinted moisturizer. Two minutes of gentle massaging later, the city, the makeup, and the stress were all gone. My skin didn’t feel squeaky — it felt clean, calm, and faintly hydrated.

The Formula

The star ingredient, squalane, mimics your skin’s natural oils, protecting your barrier while cleansing impurities. There are also gentle emulsifiers that help everything rinse off easily, without the dryness you get from foam cleansers.

How I Use It

I start with dry hands and dry skin — that’s key. A small almond-sized amount goes a long way. Massage it in for about 30 seconds, then emulsify with warm water and rinse. When I’m wearing heavy foundation, I follow with a light gel cleanser (The Ordinary Glucoside Cleanser pairs perfectly).

Results

After two weeks, my skin felt more balanced. I noticed fewer dry patches and less tightness after cleansing. It’s not dramatic skincare — it’s reliable skincare, which, in my book, is even better.

Final Thoughts

If your skin ever feels stripped or raw after washing, this cleanser is a reset button. It removes everything without taking away your comfort. Simple, gentle, and beautifully unpretentious.