10 Best Korean Facial Cleansers of 2025 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)
Shocked and worried about the appearance of fine lines? Or perhaps you're annoyed with how much scrubbing you need to do to get that water-proof mascara off? Stress no more - Korean facial cleansers are here to save the day! Not only do they remove makeup effectively, leaving your face clean and smooth, but they also have the power to do so much more for the skin. They can even prevent signs of aging.
We've picked out the best of the best Korean facial cleansers online and included a buying guide in case you're still unsure what this first step in the world-famous Korean skincare routine entails. Here's to great-looking skin!
Quick List - Top Korean Facial Cleansers
Anua US
Purify, Soothe, and Hydrate – All in One Cleanse
ANUA
Gentle Cleansing Oil That Efficiently Removes Makeup and Sebum While Clearing Pores
Beauty of Joseon
Gentle, Moisturizing Cleanser With Plum and Mung Bean Extracts
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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How to Choose a Korean Facial Cleanser
Choosing skincare products is understandably an intimidating activity because the wrong product could lead to irritation. So, it's important to screen through the ingredient list to make sure that only the most beneficial ingredients touch our face to keep wrinkles, acne, pigmentation, and dryness at bay.
Choose Among the Types of Facial Cleansers
Before picking out a facial cleanser, let's first differentiate the different types so we can start on the right foot. Not all cleansers are formulated equally, nor do they work universally!
Go for Gel Cleansers for a Deep Clean
Gel cleansers are popular for their ability to provide a deep clean and decongest clogged pores, killing acne-causing bacteria along the way. You may have guessed that this type of cleanser is recommended for oily and combination skin due to its antiseptic properties. Plus, it can prevent breakouts and redness.
Gel cleansers are also great to use in humid or hot weather since they won't make your skin feel overwhelmed. They're usually water-based, which gives them a light consistency. On top of the deep cleaning and acne-fighting properties of gel cleansers, they're also equipped with soothing qualities to keep irritation and redness at bay.
Consider a Cream Product for a Gentle Cleanse
Dry and sensitive skin often needs extra hydration, so a light consistency may not be your top priority. Consider cream cleansers instead, since they're thick and full of moisturizing ingredients.
On top of that, cream cleansers are gentle and won't strip away essential natural oil from dry and sensitive skin. You can also find cream cleansers in milk or lotion form. These cleansers work great during dry or cold weather by keeping your skin's natural barrier healthy.
Cream-based cleansers are really beneficial to those with dry skin or even those with acne who are on drying acne treatment.
They can easily be combined with AHAS (like a glycolic or salicylic wipe) because these cream-based cleansers will not dry out the skin. Instead, they will provide moisture. You should still use a moisturizer even if using a cream-based cleanser, though!
Pick a Foam Cleanser if You Need Something Lightweight
For an even more lightweight option for oily, acne-prone, or combination skin types, try foam cleansers. These start as a cream, gel, or powder and lather up to foam consistency. The foam gently, yet effectively, removes makeup and other impurities on the skin.
Foam cleansers are typically formulated without oils or emollients and leave the skin squeaky clean, although they might be too harsh for dry or sensitive skin types. For those who wish to try foam cleansers but are wary about any drying effects, you can look for ones with added moisturizers.
Foaming cleansers are great for oily skin or for right after working out where there may be a lot of sweat build-up, oil, and maybe even residual makeup.
Although foaming cleansers are traditionally known to dry out the skin, some are made with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and can be used in those with sensitive skin.
Go for a Deeper Clean (if You Need It)
Do you prefer wearing a lot of makeup? Or, do you often have excess sebum and residue at the end of the day or in the morning? Perhaps a deep clean will provide you with the assurance that your face is genuinely grime-free! Try the facial cleansers mentioned below if you want a more powerful formula.
Grab an Oil Cleanser to Remove Pore-Clogging Debris
We do need our faces thoroughly cleansed if we want to get the best out of the toners and moisturizers we apply next, and oil cleansers are definitely essential for those looking for a deep clean. They work for all skin types, including oily skin, because they can remove pore-clogging debris and even the most stubborn makeup.
The main thing to remember with this cleanser is to follow it up with another wash, called a "double cleanse" (a crucial step in the Korean skincare routine), to completely remove any residue. A double cleanse also helps to make your skin feel fresher and avoid any oily sensations.
Double cleansing is a great skincare ritual to perform for clean and hydrated feeling skin. It is not necessary to do it every night, though. If double cleansing is something you feel works for you, it is fine to do every night, but I usually recommend double cleansing one to three times a week.
Oil-based cleansers can cause outbreaks of acne and periorificial dermatitis (a rosacea-like rash around the nose, mouth, and eyes), so be cautious if you are acne-prone.
Go for Clay Cleansers for Exfoliation
Then we have clay cleansers that exfoliate. You can get these in a creamy, more natural form, powder, or scrub. These cleansers purify the skin by drawing out excess oil and debris. Exfoliation is also essential in removing dead skin cells, bringing you a new batch of baby-smooth skin that's ready for the next steps in your skincare routine.
Exfoliating cleansers have high absorbing power and are ideal for oily and combination skin types. Due to their potency, not all exfoliating cleansers can be applied daily, so it is advised to check how many times a week they can be used for a cleansing boost.
Consider Micellar Water for On-the-Go Cleansing
If you're busy and have those moments when you don't have the energy or time to do a full facial cleanse, try micellar water! This cleanser consists of tiny oil molecules suspended in soft water. These molecules attract dirt, makeup, and excess oils from your skin. Best of all, it can be used without rinsing.
Micellar water is ideal for dry and sensitive skin types due to its gentle and moisturizing properties.
Micellar water is my favorite way to remove makeup prior to using a cleanser. All skin types can tolerate micellar water, which makes it versatile. The micelle composition allows it to more effectively clean off dirt, oil, and even heavy makeup from the skin better than other products.
You do not have to use a cleansing wash after micellar water, but I recommend it for the best results. Micellar water is hydrating and will not dry out the skin and can be used in those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Additionally, this is a great product to keep in your gym bag to remove makeup prior to a workout and oil and sweat after a workout.
Give the Ingredients a Thorough Look
An essential consideration when it comes to choosing skincare is the ingredients. Of course, we want only the good stuff! Plus, the key components that our particular skin type needs to maintain a balanced pH and improve its appearance are essential.
Grab Ingredients That Provide a Healthy Boost
Korean face cleansers are usually equipped with natural ingredients such as rice water, egg yolk, green tea, and other plant and fruit extracts. We know they're healthy when consumed, so they're likely to be beneficial for our skin too!
Specifically, rice water can lighten hyperpigmentation and fade age spots, while egg yolks are rich in fatty acids to keep your skin moisturized. Don't forget about green tea and fruit extracts! They're rich in antioxidants and can rejuvenate your skin.
You can also go for ingredients that occur naturally, such as volcanic ash, which is a great exfoliator and removes impurities without stripping natural oils.
Cleansers infused with vitamins, specifically C and E for skin, and minerals are also recommended to give your skin a boost of nutrients. These vitamins help the skin maintain its youthfulness, increase collagen production, and delay those wrinkles and fine lines as much as possible.
Some other ingredients that are often found in Korean cleansers include retinol, hyaluronic, salicylic acid, and ceramides. Retinol banishes wrinkles, hyaluronic acid hydrates dry skin, salicylic acid prevents acne, and ceramides lock in moisture. These are the good guys and help make a particular skincare product more effective!
Watch Out for Potential Irritants
Most facial cleansers nowadays are free from phthalates, sulfates, parabens, and fragrances, all of which may cause skin irritation and other health issues. While many of these ingredients aren't proven to be harmful to everyone, many people still prefer to avoid them, especially if they have sensitive skin.
Parabens are used to extend shelf life. Some studies suggest that they mimic estrogen and can disrupt hormonal balance. While the evidence is still inconclusive, many people feel better avoiding parabens just to be safe!
Meanwhile, phthalates increase the flexibility of plastics in cosmetics to help products stick to the skin. However, there are concerns that they may be endocrine disruptors. Many people also avoid fragrances, as they may trigger allergies or cause irritation on sensitive skin.
Korean skincare has also taken the move to be cruelty-free since 2018, so that's a plus for our conscience.
If you have eczema or sensitive skin, avoid fragrances as these are the most common cause of contact dermatitis and skin allergy. Many preservatives, like parabens, can also cause skin problems.
Avoid products with essential oils if you have eczema as these can often lead to outbreaks of eczema and contact dermatitis.
10 Best Korean Facial Cleansers
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Type | Main Ingredients | Potential Irritants | Volume | Vegan | Cruelty Free | |||||
1 | Anua US Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam | | Purify, Soothe, and Hydrate – All in One Cleanse | Foam | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Heartleaf Extract | 5.07 fl. oz. | ||||
2 | ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil | | Gentle Cleansing Oil That Efficiently Removes Makeup and Sebum While Clearing Pores | Oil | Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sorbeth-3O Tetraoleate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate | 6.76 fl. oz. | ||||
3 | Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser | | Gentle, Moisturizing Cleanser With Plum and Mung Bean Extracts | Gel | Plum Water, Plum Extract, Mung Bean Extract | 3.38 fl. oz. | ||||
4 | SKIN1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil | | Calming Cleanse from Madagascar | Oil | Centella | 6.76 fl. oz. | ||||
5 | COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser | | Gentle Gel Cleanser for Vibrant Skin | Gel | Tea Tree Oil, BHA | 5.07 fl. oz. | ||||
6 | The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam | | Detoxify and Brighten With Luxurious Foam | Foam | Rice Water, Rice Bran Oil, Soapwort Extract | 5 fl. oz. | ||||
7 | Arencia Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser | | Green Tea Cleanser | Foam | Green Tea Extract, Mugwort | 4.23 fl. oz. | ||||
8 | COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin Gel Cleanser | | Cleansing Powered by Snail Mucin | Gel | Snail Mucin | 5.07 fl. oz. | ||||
9 | Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover | | A Gentle, Deep-Cleansing Oil That Removes Makeup and Impurities While Hydrating the Skin | Oil | Jojoba, Macadamia, Olive, and Sunflower Oils | 5.1 fl. oz. | ||||
10 | COSMECCA KOREA CO.,LTD. Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream｜LHB-BOJ001 | | Revitalize and Nourish: Luxurious Korean Skincare | Oil | Ginseng Extract | 7.1 fl. oz. | ||||
Anua USHeartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam
| Main Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Heartleaf Extract |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Purify, Soothe, and Hydrate – All in One Cleanse
Experience deep pore cleansing with a gentle touch. This Heartleaf-infused cleanser creates a delicate foam designed for all skin types, particularly oily and combination skin. Enriched with 3,000ppm of Heartleaf powder and 0.5% BHA, it exfoliates dead skin cells, clears impurities, and balances sebum production without harsh scrubbing.
Quercetinol from Heartleaf soothes and calms inflammation, ensuring your skin feels refreshed after every use. Triple Hyaluronic Acid locks in moisture, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and radiant. Elevate your skincare routine with this cleanser, delivering a refreshed and hydrated finish every time.
| Type | Foam |
|---|---|
| Volume | 5.07 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
| Main Ingredients | Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sorbeth-3O Tetraoleate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Gentle Cleansing Oil That Efficiently Removes Makeup and Sebum While Clearing Pores
This cleansing oil is formulated to effectively dissolve makeup, sebum, and dirt, making it an ideal choice for those who follow a double cleansing routine. Its blend of mild ingredients, including Heartleaf Extract and various nourishing oils, ensures gentle yet thorough cleansing without irritation. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it maintains skin hydration while clearing clogged pores and removing makeup residue.
The product offers a refined cleansing experience by first applying the oil to dry skin, followed by massaging to break down impurities. It then emulsifies with water to wash away residue, leaving the skin prepared for a subsequent water-based cleanser. This process helps achieve clear, revitalized skin while preventing pore congestion and ensuring the cleansing routine does not compromise skin comfort.
| Type | Oil |
|---|---|
| Volume | 6.76 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser
| Main Ingredients | Plum Water, Plum Extract, Mung Bean Extract |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Gentle, Moisturizing Cleanser With Plum and Mung Bean Extracts
Ideal for daily use, the Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser is suitable for all skin types, particularly those concerned with maintaining a healthy pH balance and strengthening the skin barrier. Its soothing properties make it a preferred choice for anyone seeking a cleanser that combines gentle purification with nourishing benefits derived from traditional Hanbang ingredients.
| Type | Gel |
|---|---|
| Volume | 3.38 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
SKIN1004Centella Light Cleansing Oil
| Main Ingredients | Centella |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Calming Cleanse from Madagascar
Refresh and soothe your skin with SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Daily Cleanser, a gentle yet effective formula made with pure Centella Asiatica extract from Madagascar. Designed for deep cleansing without stripping moisture, this daily care cleanser helps calm irritation while washing away impurities, leaving your skin feeling soft, balanced, and refreshed.
Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin, its mild, fresh-scented formula is perfect for all skin types. Whether you're tackling daily grime or seeking a soothing cleanse, this skin-loving essential delivers a pure and nourishing experience with every wash.
| Type | Oil |
|---|---|
| Volume | 6.76 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
COSRXLow pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
| Main Ingredients | Tea Tree Oil, BHA |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Gentle Gel Cleanser for Vibrant Skin
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser offers a gentle cleansing experience with its mildly acidic pH level, suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. Formulated with BHA and tea tree oil, it effectively removes impurities while maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier. This cleanser not only hydrates and refreshes but also helps restore the skin's pH balance, leaving it feeling clean and revitalized without stripping essential oils. Ideal for daily use, it supports clearer and smoother skin texture, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a balanced and nourishing cleansing regimen.
The gel-type formula is designed to be used morning and night after makeup removal, starting with wet hands and face. By foaming gently and rinsing with warm water, users can enjoy a refreshed complexion that feels rejuvenated and ready for the day or night ahead. COSRX ensures the product's efficacy through dermatologist-tested formulations, affirming its suitability for everyday use without causing skin irritation or discomfort.
| Type | Gel |
|---|---|
| Volume | 5.07 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
The Face ShopRice Water Bright Cleansing Foam
| Main Ingredients | Rice Water, Rice Bran Oil, Soapwort Extract |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Detoxify and Brighten With Luxurious Foam
Experience smoother, softer, and brighter skin with The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam, enriched with fermented rice extract and soapwort extract to provide a rich, creamy cleanse that removes impurities, dead skin cells, and makeup. Ideal for normal to oily skin types, this cleansing foam offers a refreshing floral scent and a lightweight gel-to-foam texture that leaves the skin feeling clean, fresh, and visibly clearer. The formula's inclusion of rice bran oil and glycerin helps maintain skin's moisture balance while enhancing clarity and brightness, making it a soothing addition to both morning and nighttime skincare routines. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy during cleansing with its delicate floral fragrance, ensuring a revitalizing experience with every use.
| Type | Foam |
|---|---|
| Volume | 5 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
ArenciaFresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser
| Main Ingredients | Green Tea Extract, Mugwort |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Green Tea Cleanser
Elevate your skincare routine with this rice mochi cleanser, a meticulously crafted formula that takes 170 hours to perfect. Infused with 34 natural extracts, this daily cleanser gently exfoliates, brightens, and removes excess oil without disrupting your skin’s moisture barrier. Designed to defend against dryness, irritation, and roughness, it leaves your skin feeling smooth, hydrated, and refreshed.
Ideal for sensitive, combination, and oily skin, this cleanser eliminates makeup, dirt, and impurities—no double cleansing needed. With a refreshing tea tree scent and a skin-loving formula, it’s the perfect way to cleanse and nourish in one simple step.
| Type | Foam |
|---|---|
| Volume | 4.23 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
COSRXAdvanced Snail Mucin Gel Cleanser
| Main Ingredients | Snail Mucin |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Cleansing Powered by Snail Mucin
Experience a refreshing cleanse with COSRX Snail Mucin Gel Cleanser, a daily face wash that hydrates, soothes, and rejuvenates your skin. Infused with the powerful regenerative properties of snail mucin, this unique gel-to-foam formula effectively removes impurities while maintaining moisture, leaving your skin plump, bright, and refreshed.
Designed for even the most sensitive skin, this hypoallergenic cleanser is free from parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances. Dermatologist-tested and cruelty-free, it offers a soothing, irritation-free cleansing experience—perfect for achieving a radiant, youthful glow every day.
| Type | Gel |
|---|---|
| Volume | 5.07 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
Haruharu WonderBlack Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover
| Main Ingredients | Jojoba, Macadamia, Olive, and Sunflower Oils |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
A Gentle, Deep-Cleansing Oil That Removes Makeup and Impurities While Hydrating the Skin
With over 95% natural ingredients, this vegan and cruelty-free product is ideal for sensitive skin types. Its minimalistic formula contains only nine essential ingredients, ensuring that it cleanses deeply while minimizing irritation. EWG-certified green ingredients further emphasize the product’s gentle nature, providing a balance between effective cleansing and maintaining skin's moisture barrier.
| Type | Oil |
|---|---|
| Volume | 5.1 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
COSMECCA KOREA CO.,LTD.Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream ｜ LHB-BOJ001
| Main Ingredients | Ginseng Extract |
|---|
- Potential Irritants
Revitalize and Nourish: Luxurious Korean Skincare
Nourish and rejuvenate your skin with Beauty of Joseon's Dynasty Cream. This luxurious moisturizer is crafted with traditional Korean ingredients like rice bran water and ginseng root extract, known for their nourishing and revitalizing properties. Rice bran water helps to deeply hydrate and brighten the skin, while ginseng root extract boosts circulation and enhances skin vitality. Together, they create a radiant, glowing complexion.
This product also includes niacinamide, a powerful ingredient that helps to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots, as well as squalane to support the skin barrier, balancing oil and moisture and protecting skin from external stimuli. Specifically formulated for dry skin, this cream helps to reduce sebum secretion, and possesses a rich yet lightweight texture which absorbs easily, making it suitable for all skin types. Experience the ancient beauty secrets of Korea with every application, and enjoy the benefits of deeply hydrated, luminous skin.
| Type | Oil |
|---|---|
| Volume | 7.1 fl. oz. |
| Vegan | |
| Cruelty Free |
In Collaboration With Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy
Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.
We asked her to evaluate our buying guide below for accuracy, and she also contributed some extra tips and advice. You can also follow her on Instagram for more skincare tips!
More Dermatologist-Recommended Advice for Choosing the Right Cleanser
Dr. Levy also mentions, "Choose a cleanser that is right for your skin type and not one that is trending on social media. I have seen far too many young women who are acne-prone worsen for following the double cleanse/oil-based cleanser trend.
Also, you may want to have one or more types of cleansers around, as the condition of the skin changes depending on what other products are in your routine, and even the weather."
Other Must-Haves to Add to Your Skincare Regime
Since we're on the topic of skincare, why not add the following recommendations to your regime? You can start with our favorite green tea skincare products or try a refreshing face mist. And don't forget to finish with sunscreen to keep your skin protected!
Top 5 Korean Facial Cleansers
No. 1: Anua US｜Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam
No. 2: ANUA ｜Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
No. 3: Beauty of Joseon ｜Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser
No. 4: SKIN1004｜Centella Light Cleansing Oil
No. 5: COSRX｜Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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