# The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your combination skin, as squalane provides emollient action and supports barrier resilience, though it does not directly target acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- The formula is well-suited for combination skin due to squalane's ability to moisturize without clogging pores.
- The product is safe for your acne-prone skin, with no risks of irritation from harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing squalane.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Squalane

## What the research says

- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))

## Why other moisturizers fit acne-prone skin better

- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- A facial serum containing snail secretion filtrate, Calendula officinalis, and Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract significantly reduced inflammatory acne lesions compared to placebo in 66 participants with mild-to-moderate maskne over 12 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35763437/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users consistently praise this product as a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil that effectively hydrates dry and sensitive skin without clogging pores. While the vast majority find it versatile for both face and hair, a small minority of users with specific skin sensitivities experienced breakouts or found the texture too greasy for daytime use.

- Liked: Excellent value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight hydration (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothes sensitive skin (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Versatile multi-use (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Greasy residue (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Insufficient moisture (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane work for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer works reasonably well for your acne-prone skin because squalane hydrates without clogging pores, though it does not directly target breakouts. An acne-prone skin moisturizer needs ingredients that actively help with blemishes, soothe irritation, and support hydration without clogging pores.

### Which ingredients make this moisturizer a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Squalane makes this moisturizer a good fit because it moisturizes skin without clogging pores and supports your skin barrier without causing irritation. Acne-prone skin needs a moisturizer that also includes active ingredients targeting blemishes and soothing extracts for complete care.
Sources: [Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

### What does Squalane do for acne-prone skin?

Squalane may help keep acne-prone skin soft and smooth, but peroxidated forms can trigger inflammation in skin cells. For a better fit on acne-prone skin, products need non-clogging, soothing ingredients that balance oil without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### Where does this moisturizer go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer goes as the last step in your morning routine before sunscreen, and after your treatment in the evening. Squalane helps moisturize your skin without clogging pores, though acne-prone skin also needs targeted blemish-fighting ingredients to address breakouts directly.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

### Can I use it with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this moisturizer with retinol, applying it after your retinol treatment to help soothe your skin and keep it soft. Using a gentle moisturizer alongside strong treatments helps reduce irritation and dryness while supporting your skin barrier.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use this moisturizer?

You can use this moisturizer daily in both your morning and evening routines to keep your skin soft and balanced. It helps moisturize without clogging pores, though acne-prone skin also needs products that directly target blemishes and breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer is unlikely to clog your pores because squalane moisturizes without blocking them, though some reviewers have reported occasional breakouts. An acne-prone skin type usually needs ingredients that directly target blemishes and breakouts while keeping the skin calm and clear.

### Can I use this moisturizer around the eyes or on my body?

Yes, you can use this moisturizer around the eyes and on your body because squalane moisturizes without clogging pores and is safe for sensitive skin areas. The skin is very thin around the eyes compared to most body areas, but this gentle formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 91.81 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 29.35 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — AED 132.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 49.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — AED 92.70 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in United Arab Emirates has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Squalane
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)