9 best Korean cleansers I tried that are gentle but effective

After years of rotating cleansers, serums and makeup formulas like a skincare sommelier, I’ve finally reached the summit of my K-beauty obsession: the definitive deep dive into the best Korean cleanser collection out there.

I’ve swirled through foams, balms, gels and oils with the commitment of a chemist and the excitement of a fan at a Seoul pop-up launch. A few months ago, I even flew to Korea itself — lab coat on, pipette in hand — into the heart of an R&D lab where I watched snail mucin stretch like liquid gold and glass-skin ingredients shimmer under fluorescent light. It was there I realized that these formulations aren’t just skincare — they’re skincare philosophy.

And after all that experimenting, I can confirm: no place does cleansing quite like Korea. The artistry behind the Korean double cleanse is practically spiritual, a perfect balance between innovation and indulgence. Whether it’s a silky Korean oil cleanser, a sensorial balm cleanser or a featherlight Korean foam cleanser that turns washing your face into an act of joy, each formula feels like a chapter in a love story between science and skin.

“The different types of sensorial formats enable high patient adherence,” ane Yoo, MD, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon who specializes in cosmetic dermatology, shared with Post Wanted. “People like to use what feels good on their skin, so there are oils, balms, gel to foam, low foam ‘cloud’ cleansers, and many more.”

For those who live by the glow (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), the gentle Korean cleanser is the secret handshake of the skincare elite — a formula that respects your barrier while still delivering that ethereal, lit-from-within finish. It’s this harmony of care and performance that keeps K-beauty perched at the top of the global skincare stage, redefining what “clean” really means.

So after years of testing, swapping and occasionally sabotaging my own moisture barrier in the name of research, I’ve gathered the most transformative formulas worth your shelf space.

Grab your headband and clear your counter: the journey to your smoothest, clearest skin begins now. Oh, and be sure to read the in-depth FAQ section detailing the 411 on Korean cleansers, along with my guide on the best Korean sunscreens I reviewed.

I honestly believe the Anua Hyaluronic Acid & Squalane Moisturizing Gentle Gel Cleanser has completely changed the way I think about cleansing, so much so that I now look forward to washing my face.

This is *the* most amazing cleanser I’ve used this year. That’s saying something (especially if you’ve seen my bathroom, aka my testing lab). The moment the gel touches my skin, it melts away the day’s dirt with this cloud-soft texture that feels almost therapeutic. Unlike other cleansers that strip or sting, this one leaves my skin dewy, balanced and content; it’s as if it knows exactly what my skin needs before I do.

The blend of eight types of hyaluronic acid reaches into all the little crevices of my skin, delivering layers of hydration instead of just a superficial “clean” feeling. And the addition of squalane? That’s a game-changer: it mimics skin’s natural oils so perfectly that when it rinses off, you’re left with a soft, supple finish. It’s a far cry from that tight, just-washed dryness many cleansers leave behind.

Beyond the ingredients, what really sold me is how gentle and thoughtfully formulated it is. No fragrance that irritates, no harsh stripping surfactants. It supports the skin barrier with ceramide NP and calming ectoin, so I wake up without the usual redness or flakiness. Since switching to this one, my face feels both clean and cared for, like the cleanser is doing the job and treating me well. If I were recommending just one Korean cleanser to someone who wants safe, smart, everyday skincare, this would be it.

Size: 5.07 ounces | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, Ceramides

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I swear, ever since I discovered the COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, my bathroom shelf has never looked back.

On days when my skin is grumpy and the world outside is glaring at me through fluorescent lights, this little tube shows up like a loyal sidekick. It foams into a gentle, soft mousse that rinses off without leaving that “squeaky tight” feeling. It hits at a skin-friendly pH — right around 5.0-5.5 — so it plays nice with your skin’s barrier.

You’ll want to read my full COSRX review for more of the brand (ahem, snail mucin!)

What really seals the deal for me on the budget front is that you’re getting a legit K-beauty cleanser that works, without blowing your bank account. Instead of fancy packaging, this cleanser just quietly steps in and cleanses well with BHA, tea tree oil and the right pH.

The low pH is excellent for sensitive skin, while the gel texture and mild foaming are soothing. And best of all? It doesn’t ask for an epic ritual — just a simple morning cleanse. For me, that blend of simplicity, plus efficacy, plus affordability is what makes it the best budget Korean cleanser I’ve ever met.

Size: 5.07 ounces | Key ingredients: BHA, Tea Tree Oil

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I never thought I’d be so enchanted by a cleansing oil, but haruharu wonder’s Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil has completely transformed my skincare routine. With only nine thoughtfully chosen ingredients — including antioxidant-rich rice bran oil, calming sunflower seed oil, and nourishing olive and jojoba oils — this oil melts away makeup, sunscreen and impurities without stripping or irritating.

It emulsifies beautifully into a milky texture, rinsing clean and leaving my face feeling soft, hydrated and balanced.

It’s gentle, effective and completely free from harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, alcohol and artificial fragrances, so my sensitive skin feels safe and cared for every time I use it. I love knowing that while it’s dissolving every trace of makeup and sunscreen, it’s also nourishing my skin with antioxidants from fermented black rice and oils like jojoba and sunflower seed.

It’s like a mini skincare treatment in each use, cleaning deeply without ever leaving that tight, uncomfortable feeling I used to get with other oils. Truly, it’s proof that a cleanser can be both pure and powerful.

Honestly, it’s not only the best Korean cleansing oil — it’s one of the best cleansing oils, period.

Size: 5.1 ounces | Key ingredients: Black Rice Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil, Macadamia Seed Oil, Olive Oil

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I can’t imagine my skincare routine without Banila Co.’s Clean It Zero Cica-Relief Calming Cleansing Balm. Its sherbet-like texture melts effortlessly onto skin, dissolving makeup, sunscreen and grime without any greasy residue. It’s a vegan, hypoallergenic formula that’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin, leaving it feeling clean, calm and hydrated. Plus, it’s infused with soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica (Cica), which is known for its healing properties, making it perfect for those with reactive or stressed-out skin, aka me.

Alongside Cica, it contains chamomile and eucalyptus oils, which work together to calm inflammation and reduce redness. There’s also rosemary leaf oil, known for its antioxidant properties and olive fruit oil, which nourishes and hydrates. These ingredients not only cleanse but also support the skin’s natural barrier, leaving my face feeling soft and balanced after every use.

Since incorporating this balm into my routine, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s texture and overall health. It’s become an essential step in my double cleansing method, ensuring that my skin is thoroughly clean without being stripped of its natural moisture. Whether it’s the end of a long day or the start of my skincare ritual, Banila Co.’s Clean It Zero Cica-Relief Calming Cleansing Balm has become my go-to product. For anyone with sensitive skin or those looking to elevate their cleansing routine, this balm is a must-try.

Size: 3.38 ounces | Key ingredients: CICA, Eucalyptus Oil, Rosemary Oil, Probiotics

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The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser is like someone bottled up the softest cloud and sprinkled a little rice water magic in it.

The moment it hits my skin, it foams into this delicate, creamy lather that somehow feels indulgent and refreshing at the same time. Makeup and dirt just melt away, leaving me staring into the mirror like, “Wow…is that my skin glowing?” Spoiler alert: yes, it is.

The foam. I love the foam.

Every morning, washing my face has become my favorite tiny ritual. There’s a subtle, comforting scent that makes me smile, like I’m sneaking a spa moment into my bathroom. Even on nights when I’ve piled on sunscreen and concealer, a dab of this cleanser effortlessly sweeps it all off without that tight, squeaky feeling that makes me regret washing my face. It’s gentle, it’s kind, and somehow, it leaves my skin looking bright and alive — as if it’s secretly cheering me on.

And honestly? I’ve tried other cleansers. Fancier ones, hyped-up ones, ones that promise the moon. But this little rice-water wonder has wormed its way into my routine and my heart. It’s affordable, effective and makes every wash feel like a treat instead of a chore. I never thought I’d get excited about cleansing foam, but here I am, singing praises to my bathroom mirror every single day. If glowing, happy skin had a mascot, this cleanser would be it.

Size: 5.29 ounces | Key ingredients: Ceramides, Lipids, Niacinamide, Vitamin A, Vitamin E

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If you’re anything like me — constantly battling stubborn pores and the relentless tide of sebum — then the medicube Zero Foam Cleanser is your new skincare soulmate.

Not to mention, after reviewing all of medicube, this landed as one of the best ones from the brand.

The moment I squeeze out a dollop of this creamy, whipped-textured foam, I feel like I’m indulging in a spa treatment. Its rich lather envelops my face, gently whisking away excess oil without stripping my skin. Even after a long day, it still feels refreshed, not tight or dry, thanks to its pH-balanced formula.

Infused with wintergreen leaf extract, a natural source of salicylic acid, it delves deep into pores, dissolving blackheads and preventing future breakouts. The inclusion of quince extract further tightens and refines pores, leaving my complexion looking smoother and more even-toned. It’s like a mini facial every time I cleanse, and the results are undeniable.

Beyond its pore-minimizing magic, the medicube Zero Foam Cleanser boasts a thoughtful blend of botanical ingredients like lemon balm and orange blossom extract. These work harmoniously to soothe and balance the skin, ensuring that even those with sensitive skin can enjoy its benefits without irritation. With each use, I feel my skin becoming clearer, more radiant, and yes, pores noticeably diminished. For anyone seeking a cleanser that delivers on its promises, this is it.

Size: 4.23 ounces | Key ingredients: Glycerin, Leaf Extracts

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Even though it melts away every trace of makeup, the ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil is surprisingly kind to my skin. My sensitive spots never flare up, and my face remains calm. It’s the best feeling, and I’m wondering why I haven’t used this sooner.

I’ve noticed fewer blackheads and a smoother texture after using this cleanser — like my skin *finally* gets to breathe. After rinsing, there’s no tightness or dryness. Instead, my skin simply feels soft and supple, nourished and alive.

The oil removes every trace of the day without stripping, balancing hydration with deep cleansing in one effortless step. From first swipe to final rinse, my skin feels pampered, refreshed and ready to glow. For anyone chasing a cleanser that actually works and treats skin with gentle care, this has become my holy grail.

Size: 6.76 ounces | Key ingredients: Glycerin, Squalane

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If your skin feels like the Sahara desert, the Biodance Collagen Mask to Foam Cleanser is the oasis you’ve been dreaming of. A hydration hero, this dry skin cleanser is infused with ultra-low molecular 243Da collagen, it penetrates deep into dry skin to plump, smooth and infuse every layer with moisture. What makes it truly magical is its dual personality: it starts as a luxurious, skin-hugging mask and effortlessly transforms into a creamy foam cleanser, lifting away dirt and impurities without ever stripping your skin of its natural oils.

Say goodbye to tight, flaky skin and hello to a supple, glowing complexion (and also, say hello to my full Biodance brand review).

But the perks don’t stop there. This cleanser is a multitasker extraordinaire. I love using it as a deep-cleansing mask to refine pores and smooth texture, or switching to a daily foam for gentle makeup removal and impurity cleansing. Its mildly acidic pH keeps my skin’s natural barrier balanced and healthy, while still delivering the deep hydration dry skin craves.

Even sensitive skin types are welcome to the party (and mine is the first to arrive). After each use, my skin is thoroughly cleansed, hydrated, and firmer feeling.

Size: 5.07 ounces | Key ingredients: Collagen, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid

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If your oily skin feels like it’s hosting a perpetual oil slick, the Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser might just be the lifeboat you’ve been searching for.

This gentle yet effective cleanser boasts a slightly acidic, hypoallergenic formula that cleanses without stripping. Its standout ingredients include 25% green plum water and 2% mung bean extract, both revered in traditional Korean medicine for their hydrating and soothing properties. Together, they work to balance oil production and maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

But it’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about how they come together to perform. Despite its deep-cleansing abilities, this cleanser leaves your skin feeling refreshed, not tight or dry.

Its thoughtful formulation and gentle yet effective cleansing action make it a must-try for those seeking a balance between oil control and skin hydration. I find that it’s equally as hydrating as it is skin-balancing, and its formula is one I frequently recommend for normal and combination skin types as well.

Size: 3.38 ounces | Key ingredients: Plum Water, Mung Bean Seed Extract

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An FAQ on Korean Cleansers

What makes Korean cleansers different from non-Korean formulas?

The difference? Many K-beauty cleansers target a mildly acidic pH (~4.5–6) to respect the skin’s natural pH and reduce any post-washing tightness or stinging.  “These cleansers use mild surfactants that are amino acid-based (sodium cocoyl glycinate) or non-ionic,” Dr. Yoo noted.

What ingredients should I look for in a Korean cleanser?

Mild surfactants to gently cleanse the skin: sodium cocoyl glycinate, sodium lauroyl methyl isethionate, decyl glucoside.

“Humectants for moisture and to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, betaine, are also good to look for,” Yoo listed, also adding, “Soothing ingredients such aspanthenol, allantoin, madecassoside/centella, green tea, licorice root or rice water.”

It’s also a good idea to protect the skin barrier with ceramides.

What are cleansing oils?

Cleansing oils (liquids) contain ester or triglyceride oil and emulsifiers that turn milky with water. “They are best for taking off heavy sunscreen, makeup and water-resistant products,” Yoo shared. “These oils dissolve sebum/pigments efficiently with minimal rubbing.”

However, be sure to rinse thoroughly and, if you’re acne-prone, follow through with a gentle water cleanser. 

What are cleansing balms?

Cleansing balms are solidified oils and emulsifiers that melt on skin.  “These are best utilized for travel, contact-lens wearers (since there is less drip) and stubborn makeup,” Yoo said.

While the balms allow for controlled application, similar to oils, they emulsify fully; so be careful not to over-massage.

What are cleansing foams?

“Water-based gel/foam cleansers are mild surfactants that rinse clean and can be used on a daily basis after makeup removal or on no-makeup days,” Yoo explained. 

Make sure to choose low-to-moderate foam and an acidic pH, too. “Sometimes these cleansers can do too good of a job and over-strip the skin,” she added.

Are Korean cleansers good for acne and sensitive skin?

Korean cleansers are. great for acne-prone skin if you opt for a mild, acidic formula. “For oily and acne-prone skin, make sure to avoid harsh scrubs and multiple acid steps in the same routine,” Yoo said.”If you’re on benzoyl peroxide or retinoids, keep the cleanser extra gentle to reduce cumulative irritation.”

For sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free, amino-acid surfactants — with a pH 4.5 through 6, per Yoo — with soothing ingredients such as panthenol/allantoin. Be sure to do a patch test, as always, before fully applying to your face.

Should I double cleanse?

It depends on the skin type.  “Double cleansing implies utilizing an oil or balm first to lift heavy products such as sunscreen and makeup, followed by a gentle water cleanser,” Yoo shared. “This can be effective, but the frequency still matters.”

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This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.

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