Does The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser contain soap?

How does it clean without soap?

Squalane Cleanser uses ingredients that help makeup, oil and dirt mix with water so they can rinse away. Sucrose stearate and sucrose laurate are emulsifiers, meaning they help substances mix that would otherwise stay separate. The formula also contains squalane to hydrate and soften skin, and ethyl macadamiate to soften it. Its lipophilic esters, ingredients with an affinity for oil, help dissolve makeup. For this product, 'cleanser' is not soap wearing a more elaborate job title.2

Why does being soap free matter?

Body bar soap usually has a higher pH than facial cleansers and can strip away natural oils and bacteria, disrupting skin's balance. pH measures how acidic or alkaline something is: below 7 is acidic, 7 is neutral, and above 7 is alkaline. Adult skin normally has a pH of about 5.5, so neutral is not automatically the goal. Disrupted skin pH can contribute to dryness, flaking and irritation. A gentle facial cleanser is a better choice than using your body soap on your face.3

The Ordinary lists Squalane Cleanser's pH as 5.50 to 6.50. That puts the formula on the acidic side of the scale.13

Soap based cleansers can also remove skin's natural bacteria. These bacteria help protect against infection, regulate pH and keep skin hydrated. Choosing a cleanser without soap is general guidance for protecting that balance; you do not need to add a probiotic product just because you are changing cleansers. If your skin is healthy, an extra probiotic step is unnecessary.4

How should you use Squalane Cleanser?

1. 1Start with dry skin and dispense the cleanser into dry hands.
2. 2Rub your hands together to warm the balm until it changes to an oil like consistency.
3. 3Massage the cleanser gently over your dry face.
4. 4Rinse with warm water.

Expect the balm's texture to change as you warm it in your hands. The cleanser is designed to remove makeup and dirt during washing and leave skin feeling soft, smooth and hydrated. It is a rinse off product, not a balm to leave on after cleansing.1

Use Squalane Cleanser at the cleansing stage of your routine; it is suitable for daily use. For makeup removal, it can be the first step of a double cleansing routine, followed by another cleanser if desired. The formula can be combined with other skincare products.12

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Squalane Cleanser is formulated for dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Soap free does not mean irritation is impossible, so patch test before using it on your face. The Ordinary advises testing a small amount on a clean area of the upper forearm and keeping the area dry. Do not use the product if redness, burning, itching, blistering or irritation appears during the test.2

Apply Squalane Cleanser only to unbroken skin. If irritation occurs during use, rinse it off, stop using it and consult a physician.1