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

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily acne-prone skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/oily-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 Kingdom.

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

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your oily skin due to the emollient action of squalane, which provides moisture without feeling heavy. This ingredient is beneficial for general skin health but does not target your specific concerns of acne, blemishes, and breakouts.
- While squalane is generally well-tolerated by oily skin, it lacks ingredients like salicylic acid that are crucial for addressing acne and oiliness.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and includes squalane, known for its soothing properties.

## Fit by skin type

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

## 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 oily acne-prone 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/))
- 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 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 this AM and PM routine every day to help clear your skin. Always remember to finish with SPF in the morning.
- Apply the moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your SPF during the day.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and avoid rubbing to keep pores clear.
- Apply on clean, slightly damp skin to help the product absorb better and control oil.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a simple patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Squalane works moderately well for oily acne-prone skin because it provides light moisture without feeling heavy, though it does not target breakouts. A moisturizer for this skin needs ingredients like salicylic acid, soothing extracts, and lightweight hydrators that clear blemishes and control oil without clogging pores.
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 oily acne-prone skin?

Squalane makes this moisturizer a fit for your oily skin by providing moderate moisture without feeling heavy, though it does not target acne and breakouts. A good fit for this skin needs lightweight ingredients that hydrate without adding excess oil, along with ingredients that clear blemishes and support skin health.
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 oily acne-prone skin?

Squalane may help keep oily skin soft and smooth, but oxidized squalene can trigger inflammation in acne-prone skin. Because of this, oily acne-prone skin needs lightweight, non-greasy ingredients that balance moisture without clogging pores.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

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

This moisturizer goes after your hydrating toner in the morning and after your treatment step in the evening, providing light moisture without feeling heavy on oily skin. Because it lacks ingredients like salicylic acid that target blemishes, a product of this type needs acne-fighting ingredients to properly care for acne-prone skin.

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

Yes, you can use it with retinol by applying your retinol treatment first and then this moisturizer. Using a gentle moisturizer alongside retinoids helps keep your skin comfortable and supports your skin barrier during treatment.
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 it?

You can use this moisturizer daily, both morning and night, to keep your oily skin hydrated without feeling heavy. Squalane is generally well-tolerated and safe, though a product for this skin also needs targeted ingredients like salicylic acid to help address acne 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 this moisturizer clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer is generally well-tolerated by oily skin, but some reviewers do report that it may cause breakouts. Because it does not contain acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, oily acne-prone skin typically needs a product that includes targeted blemish-clearing ingredients to keep pores clear.

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

Yes, you can use this moisturizer around the eyes and on your body because squalane is well-tolerated and safe for all skin areas. Squalane helps protect the skin and supports healing, making it suitable for delicate skin.
Sources: [Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

## Alternatives for oily acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £12.21 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £11.90 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — High fit — £32.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Paula's Choice CLEAR Pore Normalizing Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/clear-pore-normalizing-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £26.00 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £30.37 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — £27.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £9.90 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0719WNNK4?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £10.30 (https://www.notino.co.uk/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane-moisturising-serum/p-16204763/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 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/oily-acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/100-plant-derived-squalane/for/oily-acne-prone-skin
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