The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm — image 1
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm — image 2
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm — image 3
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm — image 4
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm — image 5
84%
91%
Makeup Removal Efficacy
93%
Skin Feel After Cleansing
94%
Gentleness on Sensitive Skin
88%
Texture & Application Experience
83%
Value for Money
79%
Rinse-Off Cleanness
89%
Eye Area Safety
57%
Suitability for Oily Skin
92%
Ingredient Transparency
81%
Travel Friendliness
86%
Hydration Support
96%
Scent Profile
67%
Packaging & Dispensing
More

Overview

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm is one of those rare products that actually delivers on a minimalist brand's promise. Built around plant-derived squalane rather than the stripping surfactants common in most drugstore face washes, it functions as both a daily cleanser and a makeup remover in a single step. The Ordinary has built its reputation on transparent, ingredient-led formulas, and this cleansing balm fits that ethos well. It's fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and the ingredient list is refreshingly short — a genuine draw for anyone who has spent time decoding labels on sensitive-skin products. Accessible pricing keeps it within reach without feeling like a compromise on quality.

Features & Benefits

The texture is where this balm-to-milk cleanser really distinguishes itself. Scoop a small amount onto dry fingers, press it against your face, and it softens immediately — almost liquefying as your skin warms it. Add water and it transforms into a thin, milky emulsion that rinses cleanly without leaving a greasy film. That squalane base does more than just help it melt; it's non-comedogenic and actively conditions while it cleans, so skin feels hydrated rather than tight after rinsing. It handles waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation without pulling at the skin. No fragrance, no drying alcohols — just a gentle, uncomplicated formula that respects the skin barrier.

Best For

This cleansing balm was practically made for people with dry or dehydrated skin who find most cleansers leave them reaching for a moisturizer before they have even finished their routine. It's also a strong fit for daily makeup wearers who want to cut a double-cleanse down to a single, efficient step. Anyone with a reactive or eczema-prone complexion will appreciate the short, fragrance-free formula — there's little here to trigger a flare. Skincare minimalists or those just exploring The Ordinary will find it a low-commitment entry point. One caveat: the 50ml tube goes quickly if you're wearing heavy makeup daily, so factor that into your routine planning.

User Feedback

Across reviews, the most consistent praise centers on how clean and soft skin feels post-rinse — without the tight, stripped sensation that follows many gel cleansers. Users who wear mascara regularly highlight how well eye makeup dissolves without any irritation. The balance shifts for those with oily skin; several reviewers note that the squalane balm cleanser performs much better as the first step in a double-cleanse than as a standalone, simply feeling too rich on its own. The 50ml size draws occasional frustration from frequent users who feel it runs out faster than expected. Overall, the consensus leans positive, with most complaints being practical rather than about the formula itself.

#Washes
#Cleansers
#Face
#Skin Care
#Beauty & Personal Care

Pros

  • Leaves skin noticeably soft and hydrated rather than stripped after rinsing.
  • Dissolves waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation without tugging or eye irritation.
  • Completely fragrance-free and alcohol-free, making it safe for reactive and sensitive skin types.
  • The balm-to-milk texture rinses away cleanly without leaving a greasy residue.
  • Plant-derived squalane is non-comedogenic, so it conditions without clogging pores.
  • Compact tube is easy to pack for travel and low-commitment enough to trial.
  • Short, transparent ingredient list makes it easy to identify and trust what is on your skin.
  • Works effectively as both a daily cleanser and a dedicated makeup remover in one step.
  • Accessible price point makes it a realistic everyday option without sacrificing ingredient quality.

Cons

  • The 50ml tube runs out quickly for daily makeup wearers, requiring frequent repurchasing.
  • Not effective as a standalone cleanser for oily or combination skin without a second cleansing step.
  • Produces no lather, which can feel unsatisfying for users accustomed to foaming cleansers.
  • Some users find the emollient texture too rich for warm or humid climates where skin already feels greasy.
  • The tube format can make dispensing hygienically tricky once the product runs low.
  • Not ideal for anyone who prefers a cleanser with active ingredients like exfoliants or brighteners.
  • May require more product per use for heavy or full-coverage makeup, shortening the tube lifespan further.

Ratings

The scores below reflect an AI-driven analysis of thousands of verified global reviews for The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm, with spam, bot activity, and incentivized submissions actively filtered out to preserve accuracy. The results capture what real buyers across different skin types and climates consistently experienced — not just the highlights, but the genuine frustrations too. Both the product's clear strengths and its real-world limitations are transparently represented in every category score.

Makeup Removal Efficacy
91%
Users consistently report that this cleansing balm dissolves full-face foundation and waterproof eye makeup in a single application without excessive rubbing. People who wear long-wear or transfer-resistant formulas were particularly impressed that mascara came away cleanly without leaving behind dark smudges or requiring a separate eye remover.
A small number of reviewers who layer very heavy, full-coverage products found they needed to apply a generous amount to fully break everything down, which burns through the 50ml tube noticeably faster than expected.
Skin Feel After Cleansing
93%
The post-rinse skin feel is one of the most praised aspects across all feedback — users with dry and dehydrated skin describe their faces feeling genuinely soft rather than parched after cleansing. This stands out sharply compared to gel and foam alternatives that often leave a tight, uncomfortable sensation within minutes.
Reviewers with naturally oily complexions sometimes describe a subtle residual richness even after thorough rinsing, which felt uncomfortable during humid weather or on already-congested skin days.
Gentleness on Sensitive Skin
94%
The fragrance-free, alcohol-free formulation makes this balm-to-milk cleanser one of the more trustworthy options for people managing eczema, rosacea, or product-reactive skin. Many reviewers with compromised barriers noted they could use it daily without triggering redness, stinging, or flare-ups that other cleansers routinely caused.
A very small subset of users with extreme sensitivities still reported mild reactions, underscoring that no cleanser is universally safe — patch testing remains advisable even with minimal-ingredient products.
Texture & Application Experience
88%
The balm melts satisfyingly on contact with dry skin, softening into a silky, almost oil-like consistency before emulsifying into a light milk when water is introduced. Reviewers frequently describe this transformation as an unexpectedly pleasant part of their routine, especially compared to the clinical feel of gel cleansers.
First-time balm users occasionally struggled with the dry-application method — a few initially used too little product or applied it to wet skin, which reduced its effectiveness and left residue behind until they adjusted their technique.
Value for Money
83%
For a squalane-based cleansing balm from a reputable skincare brand, the price-per-use ratio feels reasonable, especially for buyers with normal or dry skin who only need a small amount per cleanse. It competes well against pricier alternatives in the same balm-cleanser category.
Heavy makeup wearers or those using it twice daily find the 50ml tube undersized relative to cost, with some reporting it runs out in under a month — making the per-use cost feel steep over time compared to larger-format cleansers.
Rinse-Off Cleanness
79%
21%
When applied and rinsed correctly, the squalane balm cleanser washes away without leaving a detectable film, which was a genuine surprise for users who assumed oil-based formulas would cling. Most dry-skin reviewers felt confident their skin was clean, not just coated.
Oily-skin users and those in warmer climates more frequently reported that the rinse felt incomplete, describing a faint waxy or greasy sensation that persisted until they followed with a second, lighter cleanser.
Eye Area Safety
89%
Repeated mentions across reviews highlight that the formula causes zero stinging or burning around the eyes, even when used to remove multiple coats of mascara. This is a notable advantage for contact lens wearers or those with chronically sensitive eyes who have given up on micellar waters and wipes.
A small number of users noted that getting the emulsified formula too close to the waterline caused temporary mild blurriness — not irritation, but enough to be mildly inconvenient during the rinse step.
Suitability for Oily Skin
57%
43%
Within a structured double-cleanse routine, oily-skin users found real utility in this balm as a first-step oil cleanser — it broke down SPF and makeup effectively before a follow-up gel cleanser completed the process without any pore-clogging concerns from the squalane base.
As a standalone cleanser for oily skin, it consistently underperforms in user feedback. Most reviewers in this category explicitly state they would not repurchase it for solo use, citing a heavy, unfinished feeling that persisted through the day.
Ingredient Transparency
92%
The Ordinary brand ethos is built around clear, minimal formulations, and this cleanser reflects that fully. Buyers who cross-reference ingredients before purchasing appreciated the short, comprehensible list with no hidden fragrance aliases or unnecessary fillers.
A few reviewers wished DECIEM provided more detailed sourcing information for the plant-derived squalane, particularly those who follow vegan or sustainability-conscious purchasing criteria.
Travel Friendliness
81%
19%
The slim tube format fits easily into a toiletry bag and clears standard airline carry-on liquid restrictions comfortably at 50ml. Several frequent travelers specifically mentioned picking it up for trips precisely because of its compact footprint without sacrificing their usual cleansing routine.
The tube size that makes it travel-friendly is also its limitation — for longer trips, some users found themselves rationing product or needing a backup, which somewhat undermines its convenience as a travel staple.
Hydration Support
86%
Dry-skin reviewers frequently noted that the squalane base provides a genuine layer of comfort during and after cleansing, reducing the urgent need to apply moisturizer immediately after washing. For people with tight, reactive skin in cold or dry climates, this was a meaningful daily difference.
The hydration benefit is real but modest — it functions more as a barrier against stripping than as active moisturization, so users expecting this cleanser to replace a dedicated serum or moisturizer will likely be disappointed.
Scent Profile
96%
Fragrance-sensitive buyers and those recovering from overloaded skincare routines consistently single out the neutral, odorless character of this balm-to-milk cleanser as a genuine relief. It has no synthetic scent, no masking fragrance, and no detectable natural oil smell.
There is essentially nothing negative to report here from a scent perspective — the only edge case is buyers who actively prefer a pleasant aroma in their cleanser and find the total absence of scent underwhelming or clinical.
Packaging & Dispensing
67%
33%
The squeezable tube format keeps the product protected from air and contamination better than open-pot alternatives, which is hygienically sensible for a daily-use cleanser. The tube is easy to grip and control, making it straightforward to dispense the amount you need.
As the tube nears empty, retrieving the last portion becomes genuinely frustrating — rolling or cutting the tube is necessary, and several reviewers felt product was wasted as a result. A slightly wider nozzle or a larger tube size would address both issues.

Suitable for:

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm is an excellent fit for anyone whose skin leans dry, dehydrated, or easily irritated by conventional cleansers. If your current face wash leaves you feeling tight or flakey before you even reach for a moisturizer, switching to a squalane-based balm format could genuinely change how your skin feels at the end of the day. Daily makeup wearers — particularly those dealing with long-wear foundation or waterproof eye products — will find that this cleansing balm handles the job in one step without requiring aggressive rubbing. It is also a smart pick for people managing sensitive skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, since the fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula gives reactive complexions very little to react to. Skincare beginners exploring The Ordinary for the first time will appreciate the approachable format and the short ingredient list, which makes it easy to monitor how your skin responds.

Not suitable for:

If your skin runs consistently oily or you are prone to congestion, The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser Cleansing Balm may not be the best standalone option for you. The squalane base, while non-comedogenic, is still a rich emollient — and for oily skin types, using it as the only cleansing step can leave a residual feeling that heavier-skinned users find unsatisfying. It works better in that case as the first pass in a double-cleanse routine, followed by a lighter water-based cleanser. Anyone who applies heavy, full-coverage makeup daily should also note that the 50ml tube is on the smaller side and can deplete faster than expected, making it a less economical choice over time. Buyers hoping for a strong lather or that squeaky-clean sensation after washing will likely find this formula too gentle and will be better served by a foaming or gel cleanser.

Specifications

  • Brand: Manufactured by DECIEM under The Ordinary label, a brand focused on science-backed, ingredient-transparent skincare.
  • Format: Cleansing balm with a balm-to-milk texture that emulsifies upon contact with water for easy rinsing.
  • Net Weight: Each tube contains approximately 50ml (2.88 oz) of product.
  • Dimensions: The tube measures 2.77 x 1.38 x 7.38 inches, making it compact enough for travel bags and carry-on kits.
  • Key Ingredient: Plant-derived squalane serves as the primary active base, providing conditioning and barrier-supporting properties without clogging pores.
  • Fragrance: Completely unscented with no added fragrance compounds, suitable for those sensitive to perfumed products.
  • Alcohol Content: Formulated without drying alcohols, reducing the risk of irritation or barrier disruption after cleansing.
  • Skin Types: Designed to be compatible with all skin types, though it is particularly well-suited to dry, dehydrated, and sensitive complexions.
  • Primary Use: Functions as both a daily facial cleanser and an effective makeup remover, including waterproof formulas, in a single step.
  • Secondary Use: Provides hydration and skin barrier support as a secondary benefit during the cleansing process.
  • Use Timing: Suitable for both morning and evening use as part of a daily skincare routine.
  • Comedogenic Risk: The non-comedogenic ingredient profile means it is formulated to avoid blocking pores under normal use conditions.
  • Packaging Type: Comes in a squeeze tube format, which helps limit air exposure and maintain product integrity over time.
  • Rinse Method: Applied to dry skin, then emulsified and rinsed away with water; no separate micellar water or wipe required.
  • Scent Profile: Has a neutral, essentially odorless character straight from the tube, with no detectable floral, citrus, or synthetic scent notes.

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FAQ

For most skin types, especially dry or normal, this cleansing balm works perfectly well as a standalone cleanser. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may get better results following it with a lightweight water-based cleanser to ensure all residue is cleared.

Scoop out a small amount with dry, clean fingers and massage it directly onto dry skin in gentle circular motions. Once you have worked it across your face for about 30 to 60 seconds, wet your hands and continue massaging — the balm will turn into a milky emulsion. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry.

The formula is non-comedogenic, meaning its ingredients are not inherently pore-blocking. That said, everyone's skin responds differently. If you are acne-prone, it is worth patch-testing first, and using it as the first step in a double-cleanse rather than relying on it alone.

Yes, the squalane base is effective at dissolving waterproof eye makeup without requiring heavy rubbing. Most users report zero irritation around the eye area, though if your eyes are particularly sensitive it is still worth being gentle and avoiding direct contact with the waterline.

It is a reasonable choice for both conditions given that it is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and has a minimal ingredient list — all of which reduce common trigger factors. Always patch-test any new product before applying it to your full face, especially if your skin is currently flaring.

A 50ml tube generally lasts around four to six weeks with once-daily use and a pea-to-hazelnut-sized amount per application. If you wear heavy or full-coverage makeup and need more product to break it down thoroughly, expect to go through it faster — closer to three to four weeks.

It is suitable for both morning and evening use. In the morning, a quick cleanse with this balm removes overnight skin buildup without over-stripping — which is actually ideal if your skin tends to feel dry or tight after washing.

If rinsed thoroughly, the squalane balm cleanser should not leave a greasy finish. However, oily skin types often find it too rich as a sole cleanser and prefer to follow it with a gel or foam formula to feel fully clean. As a first-cleanse step in a double-cleanse routine, it works very well even for oily complexions.

There is no added fragrance whatsoever. The product is essentially odorless straight from the tube, making it one of the safer options for anyone who reacts to scented skincare. Even the natural squalane base has no noticeable smell.

There is nothing in the formula that limits it to the face alone. Extending it to the neck and chest is perfectly reasonable, particularly if those areas also carry makeup or SPF residue. Just keep in mind that the tube is 50ml, so using more surface area per application will reduce how long it lasts.