Which is better for acne-prone skin?

The La Roche-Posay. Salicylic acid and LHA exfoliate inside the pore and zinc helps control sebum. The Ordinary cleanser cleans gently but has no acne actives.

Which is gentler on dry or sensitive skin?

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser. It is soap-free, eye safe and leaves skin moisturized. The La Roche-Posay gel contains exfoliating acids and can sting dry or broken skin.

Is the La Roche-Posay worth the extra cost?

It is not the extra cost here. At $15.21 for 400 ml at PerfumesClub.us as of November 7, 2026, it is cheaper per bottle and about a third of the price per milliliter of The Ordinary at $21.00 for 150 ml at Nordstrom as of November 7, 2026.

Can I use both together?

Yes. Use the La Roche-Posay gel a few times a week for exfoliation and the Squalane Cleanser on other days or as a second cleanse. Do not layer acids daily if your skin is dry.

The La Roche-Posay. A 400 ml bottle outlasts The Ordinary's 150 ml by more than double, even allowing for a slightly larger gel dose.

Does either remove makeup?

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser does, including eye makeup. The La Roche-Posay gel is not eye safe and is not designed as a makeup remover.

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser vs La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Gel

Buy the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel if you have oily, acne-prone or congested skin and want an exfoliating cleanser for face and body. Buy The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser if your skin is dry or sensitive and you want a gentle balm that removes makeup without stripping. At the latest prices, the La Roche-Posay is cheaper per bottle at $15.21 at PerfumesClub.us as of November 7, 2026, and far cheaper per milliliter, while The Ordinary is $21.00 at Nordstrom as of November 7, 2026.

Ask our shopping agent

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.