The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser facial cleansing balm 5.1 fl oz — moisturizing, soap-free makeup remover

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser is a moisturizing, soap-free cleansing balm that melts away makeup and impurities while supporting your skin’s moisture barrier.

Lightweight but nourishing, this all-in-one cleanser uses plant-derived squalane and lipophilic esters to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime without stripping skin of essential hydration. The balm texture transforms on contact with the skin and water, rinsing to a smooth, soft finish suitable for morning and evening routines. Its non-comedogenic, soap-free formula is gentle enough for all skin types and accepted by the National Eczema Association, making it easy to pair with other treatments in The Ordinary lineup.

How does this cleanser remove makeup without drying skin?

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser relies on squalane — a lightweight, plant-derived emollient — and lipophilic esters that attract and lift oil-based makeup and SPF. Instead of stripping oils, the formula dissolves them so they rinse away cleanly, leaving moisture behind.

• Dissolves foundation, mascara, and sunscreen with oil-loving ingredients.
• No harsh surfactants or soap to cause tightness after rinsing.
• Rinses to a soft, non-greasy finish thanks to squalane.

Is the cleanser suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

Yes — the formula is designed to be gentle and non-comedogenic, minimizing pore-clogging risk while supporting the moisture barrier. It’s accepted by the National Eczema Association, and free from common irritants like alcohols and harsh sulfates.

• Soap-free, alcohol-free, and silicone-free to reduce irritation potential.
• Non-comedogenic so it won't promote clogged pores.
• Approved by National Eczema Association for gentle performance.

How should I use the balm for best results in my routine?

Use the balm on dry skin to melt down makeup, then emulsify with water to lift residues and rinse clean. It works as a stand-alone cleanser or a first step in double-cleansing when you wear heavy makeup or SPF.

• Dispense into dry hands, rub to warm the balm for easy spreading.
• Massage across the dry face to dissolve makeup and oils.
• Add warm water to emulsify, then rinse thoroughly; follow with your regular cleanser if needed.

What is in the formula, and what has been left out?

The core active is plant-derived squalane paired with lipophilic esters that deliver gentle cleansing and hydration. The Ordinary explicitly excludes many ingredients that can be drying or sensitizing to keep the product broadly compatible.

• Key ingredients: plant-derived squalane and lipophilic esters for dissolution and softness.
• Free from: cruelty, gluten, animal-derived ingredients (vegan), alcohol, oils that clog pores, and silicones.
• Non-comedogenic and suitable for daily use across skin types.

Who is this for: This cleansing balm is aimed at anyone who wants effective makeup removal plus hydration — ideal for dry, combination, or sensitive skin types and for users who wear daily sunscreen or makeup. It’s a practical choice for people building a gentle skincare routine or who prefer a balm-to-milk experience that supports the skin barrier while thoroughly cleansing. Patch test before use if you have specific sensitivities, and pair it with your preferred treatment serums and moisturizers afterward.

Features snapshot:

• Moisturizing all-in-one cleanser that removes makeup and supports hydration.
• Gentle, soap-free, non-comedogenic — accepted by the National Eczema Association.
• Contains plant-derived squalane and lipophilic esters for smooth, soft skin.
• How to use: warm in hands, massage onto dry face, emulsify with water, then rinse.
• Free from cruelty, gluten, animal ingredients, alcohol, pore-clogging oils, and silicone.

Ingredients

Squalane, Aqua (Water), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Glycerin, Sucrose Stearate, Ethyl Macadamiate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Sucrose Laurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Isoceteth-20, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Malic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin.