# The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/sensitive-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent moisturizing for your normal skin due to high concentrations of squalane, which hydrates and enhances barrier resilience.
- While beneficial for general skincare, the formula does not directly address your specific concerns of redness and irritation.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin as it contains soothing squalane and lacks harsh or prohibited ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

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

- 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/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A dexpanthenol-containing cream accelerated skin barrier repair, increased stratum corneum hydration, reduced skin roughness, and decreased skin redness compared to vehicle and untreated controls in sodium lauryl sulphate-irritated skin. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19753737/))

## 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 this soothing AM and PM routine every day to keep your normal skin calm. Always remember to apply SPF in the morning after your moisturizer.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner in the morning, and after your serum in the evening. This step locks in hydration and protects your skin.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer evenly across your face. Avoid rubbing to keep your sensitive skin happy and calm.
- You can apply this gentle formula on dry or slightly damp skin for the best comfort. It works wonderfully on clean skin to soothe redness and irritation.
- Do a patch test before your very first use to check your skin's reaction. Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane is an average fit for sensitive skin because it provides safe moisture without harsh ingredients, though it does not directly target redness and irritation. To truly soothe and care for sensitive skin, a moisturizer needs calming ingredients like fermented Centella Asiatica, Cica Ceramide, and nourishing oils.
Sources: [Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

### Which ingredients make this moisturizer a good fit for sensitive skin?

Squalane makes this moisturizer safe and helpful for your sensitive skin because it is soothing, though a product of this type for your skin needs soothing ingredients like fermented Centella Asiatica, Cica Ceramide, and nourishing oils to target redness and irritation.
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 sensitive skin?

Squalane helps calm sensitive skin by defending against everyday irritation and keeping it smooth and soft. It is unlikely to cause irritation and supports your skin barrier so it stays comfortable and hydrated.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/)

### Where does this moisturizer go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin, apply this moisturizer in the evening as the final step after your treatment, and in the morning as part of your sun protection routine. To better calm sensitive skin and reduce redness, a product of this type needs added soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol by applying the retinol first and then following with the moisturizer. This helps keep your skin soft and comfortable while reducing the dryness that retinol may cause.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this moisturizer?

You can use this moisturizer daily as part of your morning and evening routine to keep your skin soft and hydrated. This type of product is safe for sensitive skin, though a good moisturizer for your specific concerns also needs ingredients that directly calm redness and irritation.
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 this moisturizer clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This moisturizer is unlikely to cause breakouts for most people, though a few reviewers do mention them. Sensitive skin prone to clogged pores needs formulas that are lightweight and free of heavy oils.

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

Yes, you can safely use this moisturizer around the eyes and on your body because squalane has very good skin tolerance and protects against irritation. It helps keep thin and thick skin areas hydrated, though sensitive skin with redness needs extra soothing ingredients to fully calm those specific concerns.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/)

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$32.25 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$18.90 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All in One Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-92-all-in-one-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$54.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Bioderma Bioderma Photoderm Mineral SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/bioderma/photoderm-mineral-fluide-spf50/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.49 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$17.00 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0719WNNK4?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

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