β‘οΈ Quick Verdict - THE ORDINARY Squalane Cleanser
- Best For: All skin types, makeup removal, gentle cleansing.
- Strengths: Effective cleansing, non-stripping, hydrating feel.
- Drawbacks: Requires emulsification, texture preference.
- Verdict: Gentle, effective daily cleansing.
βοΈ Pros & Cons Explained
| Aspect | Pros (Based on Real User Feedback) | Cons (Based on Real User Feedback) |
|---|---|---|
| Texture & Application | Users appreciate its balm-to-oil transformation that feels luxurious upon initial application. | Some find the initial balm texture thick and note it requires a specific emulsification step to rinse cleanly. |
| Cleansing Efficacy | It is widely praised for its ability to effectively remove makeup, including waterproof mascara, and daily impurities without harsh scrubbing. | A few users mention it might require a second cleanse for heavy makeup or a feeling of residue if not rinsed thoroughly. |
| Skin Feel After Use | Many report their skin feels soft, hydrated, and comfortable, not tight or dry, after using this cleanser. | For some, a slight oily film or sensation of not being completely clean remains if not rinsed meticulously, especially in colder water. |
| Gentleness & Irritation | It is often highlighted for being exceptionally gentle, making it suitable even for sensitive or reactive skin types, causing no redness or irritation. | While rare, a small number of users with highly sensitive skin experienced mild initial tingling, which subsided with continued use. |
π§ Whatβs Included? & Why It Matters
| Component/Ingredient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Squalane | A non-comedogenic emollient that mimics skin's natural lipids, providing hydration and helping to prevent moisture loss without feeling greasy. It contributes to the cleanser's soft, non-stripping feel. |
| Sucrose Stearate & Sucrose Cocoate | These are sugar-based esters that act as gentle emulsifiers. They allow the oil-based cleanser to mix with water and rinse away easily, preventing a greasy residue and enabling effective cleansing. |
| Fatty Alcohols (e.g., Behenyl Alcohol) | Contribute to the balm texture and provide additional emollient properties, helping to condition the skin during cleansing. |
π° Is It Worth It? β Value & Cost Efficiency
| Aspect | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredient Quality | Formulated with a high percentage of squalane and effective emulsifiers, offering a blend of hydration and cleansing without common irritants. | While ingredients are good, its specific balm texture might not appeal to everyone, potentially impacting perceived value if texture preference is high. |
| Performance for Price | Delivers effective makeup removal and gentle cleansing comparable to higher-priced balm cleansers, making it a cost-effective option for daily use. | Some users find they need to use a slightly larger amount to fully cleanse, especially for heavy makeup, which could lead to faster depletion. |
| Overall User Satisfaction | Many users consider it a staple in their routine due to its efficacy, gentleness, and non-drying properties, feeling they get good results for their investment. | Users who prefer foam or gel cleansers might not find its balm-to-oil texture satisfying, potentially leading them to seek alternatives despite its performance. |
π‘ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Is THE ORDINARY Squalane Cleanser suitable for all skin types?Yes, its gentle, non-stripping formulation makes it suitable for all skin types, including dry, sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin.
- Can it remove waterproof makeup?Yes, the oil-based formula is designed to dissolve and remove oil-soluble impurities, including waterproof mascara and long-wearing foundations.
- How do I use THE ORDINARY Squalane Cleanser?Dispense a small amount into your hands. Rub hands together for approximately 10-30 seconds to warm the product and transform it from a balm to an oil-like consistency. Massage thoroughly onto dry face, then rinse with warm water.
- Does it leave a greasy residue?When properly emulsified and rinsed with warm water, it is designed to rinse clean without leaving a greasy residue. Some users, however, may perceive a slight conditioning film.
π Positive Reviews - What Users Love
- The cleanser effectively removes all makeup and sunscreen without stripping my skin, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated.
- I appreciate how gentle it is; it doesn't cause any irritation or redness, even on my sensitive skin.
- The transformation from balm to oil is unique and makes the cleansing experience feel very luxurious.
- It's a great first cleanse in a double-cleansing routine, dissolving impurities effortlessly.
- My skin has never felt dry or tight after using this product; it's consistently moisturized.
π Negative Reviews - What Could Be Better
- I find the texture a bit too thick initially, and it takes a while to emulsify properly in my hands.
- Sometimes I feel like it doesn't rinse off completely clean and leaves a slight film, especially if I don't use warm enough water.
- For heavy makeup days, I still feel the need to follow up with a second cleanser, which defeats the purpose of an all-in-one product for me.
- The tube packaging can make it a little difficult to get the last bits of product out.
- While gentle, I haven't noticed any significant improvement in my skin's clarity beyond just basic cleansing.
π Key Details & Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Name | THE ORDINARY Squalane Cleanser |
| Product Type | Cleanser (Balm-to-Oil) |
| Size | 50 mL / 1.7 fl oz and 150 mL / 5 fl oz (Common sizes) |
| Key Ingredients | Squalane, Sucrose Esters |
| Formulation Attributes | Alcohol-free, Oil-free, Silicone-free, Nut-free, Vegan, Cruelty-free, pH 5.50-6.50 |
| Texture | Balm that transforms into an oil upon warming |
| Skin Concerns | Cleansing, Makeup Removal, Hydration |
π Summary β Is This the Right Choice for You?
- THE ORDINARY Squalane Cleanser stands out as a gentle yet effective option for daily cleansing and makeup removal. Its balm-to-oil texture, powered by squalane and sugar-based esters, ensures thorough cleansing without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- It is particularly well-suited for individuals seeking a non-drying cleanser that can effectively dissolve makeup, including waterproof formulations. Users with dry, sensitive, or combination skin often find it to be an excellent fit due to its hydrating properties.
- While its initial balm texture requires a brief warming step and some users might prefer a more traditional lather, its performance in leaving skin feeling soft, hydrated, and clean makes it a highly regarded product.
- If you prioritize a gentle, hydrating cleanse and are comfortable with an oil-based formula, this cleanser offers significant value and performance for its category. It's a solid choice for those looking to cleanse effectively while maintaining skin comfort.
