The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser – Evening Wind-Down Skincare Ritual, Calming Hydrating Makeup Remover
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser – Evening Wind-Down Skincare Ritual, Calming Hydrating Makeup Remover
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Why you'll love it
- Soap-free, non-comedogenic formula trusted by the National Eczema Association
- Multi-functional balm removes makeup and cleanses while hydrating in one step
- Affordable price point from The Ordinary makes premium-feeling skincare accessible
- Vegan, cruelty-free, alcohol-free, oil-free, and silicone-free clean formulation
- Unscented formula is safe for fragrance-sensitive and reactive skin
- Bulk pack of two 5.1 oz tubes offers long-term value for daily users
Perfect for
- Remove long-wearing and water-based makeup at the end of the day
- Perform a hydrating first step in a double-cleansing routine
- Cleanse dry or dehydrated skin without compromising the moisture barrier
- Travel with a TSA-friendly 1.7 oz cleansing balm that doubles as a makeup remover
- Stock a multi-pack 5.1 oz bundle for daily morning and evening use
Product Information
MOISTURIZING ALL-IN-ONE CLEANSER: Squalane Cleanser removes makeup and dirt while supporting your skin’s moisture barrier through hydration.
GENTLE & NON-COMEDOGENIC: Soap-free formula that is gentle enough for daily use, suitable for all skin types, and won’t clog pores. Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
PLANT-DERIVED SQUALANE: Contains plant-derived squalane and lipophilic esters to leave skin feeling smooth and soft while dissolving makeup.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Dispense into hands, rub to warm the product, and massage onto dry face. Rinse with warm water. Patch test before use.
FREE FROM: Cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan, alcohol-free, oil-free, and silicone-free formulation.
Features & Specs
Scent Name: Unscented
Skin Type: All
Product Benefits: Removes makeup and dirt while supporting your skin’s moisture barrier through hydration. Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Additional Features: Nourishing
Active Ingredients: Squalane
Item Form: Cream
Special Ingredients: Ethyl Macadamiate, Squalane, Sucrose Laurate, Sucrose Stearate
Target Use Body Part: Face, Skin
Container Type: Tube
Recommended Uses For Product: Face
Package Type Name: Bottle
Skin Cleaning Agent Use: Facial Cleanser
Skin Tone: All
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this cleanser become part of my nightly wind-down ritual?
Yes. The unscented, calming balm format works well as the opening step of an evening routine, signaling a transition into self-care time.
Will the experience feel relaxing even without fragrance?
The smooth, gentle balm texture and the slow massage needed to dissolve makeup create a calming, spa-like moment on its own.
Is this safe to use during a long bath or steam session?
Yes. The gentle, non-stripping formula is suitable for use after a warm bath or steam without leaving skin tight or dry.
Does the balm actually help my skin feel more hydrated after cleansing?
Plant-derived squalane mimics the skin's natural lipids, helping the skin feel soft and replenished immediately after rinsing.
Can I use this as a soothing mask during a self-care night?
Some users apply a thin layer and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing for an extra-hydrating treat, though the brand recommends its standard cleanse instructions.
Is this a good cleanser for someone focused on skin barrier health?
Yes. The soap-free, alcohol-free, and non-comedogenic formula is designed to cleanse without disrupting the moisture barrier.
Will this fit into a mindfulness-based skincare routine?
Yes. The balm encourages a slow, intentional massage, which pairs naturally with breathwork and a mindful approach to skincare.
Does the unscented formula support a calm, low-irritation routine?
Yes. The fragrance-free formula is suitable for those who find scents overstimulating or irritating during evening rituals.
Can I use this as a first step in a double cleanse for a deeper reset?
Yes. It works well as the oil or balm step in a double-cleanse routine, followed by a water-based cleanser for a thorough reset.
Is this gentle enough for a daily evening ritual?
Yes. The mild, soap-free formula is designed for daily use, morning and night, including a long-term evening ritual.
How does this compare to a traditional foaming face wash for sensitive skin?
Foaming washes can strip natural oils and leave sensitive skin tight, while this balm cleanses while depositing hydrating squalane.
Is this better than a cleansing milk for a relaxing routine?
Cleansing milks are gentle but often require a cloth to fully remove makeup, while this balm emulsifies with water and rinses away cleanly.
How does a balm compare to a cleansing cream for a wellness ritual?
A cleansing cream can leave a residue that needs wiping, while this balm transforms into a lightweight oil that rinses clean, finishing a ritual more comfortably.
I'm worried it won't actually remove long-wearing makeup. Will it work?
The lipophilic esters are formulated to dissolve long-wearing foundations, waterproof mascara, and sebum on contact with gentle massage.
Will the balm feel heavy or suffocating on my skin?
No. The texture is light once massaged in and rinses away cleanly, leaving skin comfortable rather than coated.
Is this a worthwhile investment for my self-care routine?
At The Ordinary's accessible price point, the balm offers a premium-feeling ritual without a premium price, especially in the multi-pack bundle.
How do I use this cleansing balm in my routine?
Apply a small amount to dry skin and gently massage to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum. Add a little warm water to emulsify the balm into a milky texture, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with the rest of your routine.
Can I use this as the first step in a double cleanse?
Yes. Use it as the first step to remove makeup and oil-based debris, then follow with a water-based cleanser for a thorough double cleanse.
Should I use this on wet or dry skin?
For best results, apply the balm to dry skin first so the lipophilic esters can fully dissolve makeup and sebum, then emulsify with water before rinsing.
Is this cleanser compatible with retinol or exfoliating acids?
Yes. Its gentle, non-stripping formula works well alongside active ingredients like retinol and exfoliating acids in a layered routine.
Can I use this with other The Ordinary products?
Yes. The Ordinary designs its products to layer within a routine, and this balm fits naturally before serums, treatments, and moisturizers in the brand's lineup.
What is included when I order this product?
You will receive the cleansing balm in a tube, sized according to the variant selected: 1.7 Fl Oz, 5.1 Fl Oz single, or a 5.1 Fl Oz pack of two. No additional accessories are required to begin use.
Is this product safe for sensitive skin in general?
Yes. The soap-free, fragrance-free, alcohol-free, non-comedogenic formula is designed with sensitive skin in mind and is accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Does this cleanser contain any ingredients of concern?
The formula is free of soap, alcohol, oil, silicone, gluten, and added fragrance, and is vegan and cruelty-free, making it free of many commonly avoided ingredients.
What is the difference between a cleansing balm and a cleansing oil?
A cleansing balm starts as a soft solid that melts into an oil on contact, which many users find easier to control and less drippy than a liquid cleansing oil, while both formats dissolve makeup and sebum effectively.
