# The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Low Risk.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate cleansing for your combination skin, as squalane and glycerin provide hydration and gentle cleansing without exacerbating oiliness.
- While it offers general skincare benefits, it lacks targeted ingredients to address your specific concern of oily shine.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Ethyl Macadamiate, Hydrogenated Hydrolysate Starch

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- 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/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Liquid coco-caprylate/caprate combined with electrogenic Staphylococcus epidermidis significantly reduced UV-B-induced skin injuries in mice compared to poorly electrogenic isolates. ([Scientific Reports, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33299009/))

## Why other cleansers fit combination skin better

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Combined ascorbyl palmitate and sodium ascorbyl phosphate treatment significantly reduced facial sebum secretions in healthy female volunteers compared to a placebo control over 90 days. ([Drug Research, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27756097/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this balm-to-oil cleanser is highly recommended for dry and sensitive skin types, effectively cleansing without stripping moisture. Users frequently report soft, hydrated skin. However, it is noted to struggle with removing waterproof makeup on its own and requires a specific warming technique for optimal results.

- Liked: Gentle and hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Good for sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Struggles with makeup (often mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable price (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Unique texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Small tube size (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Tedious application (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Leaves residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this cleanser AM and PM as part of your daily routine. Start 3×/week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this cleanser as the very first step in your morning routine and right after your pre-cleanser in the evening.
- Gently massage a small amount of cleanser onto your skin using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- For the best results , apply the cleanser directly onto slightly damp skin to help lift away excess oil.
- Avoid the immediate eye area and do a patch test before your first use to check for any sensitivity.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser work for combination skin?

This cleanser works moderately well for your combination skin, using squalane and glycerin to hydrate and cleanse gently without making you too oily. However, it lacks targeted ingredients to help manage oily shine, so a cleanser for combination skin needs ingredients that effectively cleanse without stripping moisture, manage oily shine, and support the moisture barrier with beneficial extracts or oils.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for combination skin?

Squalane and glycerin make this cleanser a fit for your combination skin by providing hydration and gentle cleansing without making it oily. Combination skin needs a cleanser that effectively washes without stripping moisture, contains no irritating ingredients, and includes targeted ingredients to manage oily shine.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Squalane do for combination skin?

Squalane helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by locking in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin barrier and provides lightweight hydration that works well for both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Skin Health and Disease, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39355739/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

### What does Glycerin do for combination skin?

Glycerin helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by pulling moisture in and keeping it there. It improves hydration and supports your skin barrier, which is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This cleanser fits in both your morning and evening routine. To better handle oily shine on combination skin, a cleanser of this type needs added balancing or oil-controlling ingredients.

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

You can use this cleanser with retinol by applying the cleanser first to gently wash your skin before putting on your retinol treatment. Using a gentle cleanser helps keep your skin comfortable while managing strong treatments.

### How often should I use this cleanser?

You can use this cleanser daily in the morning and evening as part of your routine. It provides moderate cleansing and hydration for your combination skin without adding extra oiliness.

### Can this cleanser clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, as squalane and glycerin provide gentle cleansing and hydration without making your skin oily. However, a product for combination skin also needs targeted ingredients to control oily shine.

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

Yes, you can use this cleanser on your body and around the eyes, where the skin is particularly thin. It helps clean these areas gently while providing moisture, though combination skin of this type needs targeted oil-control ingredients to properly address oily shine.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cleanser fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [IS Clinical Cleansing Complex](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/is-clinical/cleansing-complex/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €67.02 at Amazon
- [Missha Super Aqua Ultra Hyalron Cleansing Foam](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/missha/super-aqua-ultra-hyalron-cleansing-foam/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €14.99 at Amazon
- [Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €12.94 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €17.47 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €40.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Notino: €10.90 (https://www.notino.fr/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser-demaquillant-pour-un-effet-naturel/p-16168475/)
- Lookfantastic: €17.14 (https://www.lookfantastic.fr/p/the-ordinary-squalane-cleanser-150ml/16966193/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 21 Oct 2026.

## Ingredients

Squalane, Water, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Glycerin, Sucrose Stearate, Ethyl Macadamiate, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Sucrose Laurate, Hydrogenated Hydrolysate Starch, Sucrose Dilaurate, Sucrose Trilaurate, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Isoceteth-20, Sodium Polyacrylate, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Malic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Chlorphenesin
## 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/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/squalane-cleanser/for/combination-skin