We often think that a little water and foam are all it takes to cleanse our face. But the truth is, how many of us use the wrong cleanser? Too harsh, not effective enough, or downright drying... What if it was the silent culprit behind your little spots, tightness, or dull complexion?
Fortunately, Korean skincare has revolutionized the way we cleanse our skin with gentle formulas, targeted active ingredients, and, above all, an obsession with skin balance. Whether it's a Korean cleansing gel, facial cleansing oil, or purifying foam, there's bound to be a Korean facial cleanser made for you.
What if you don't know your skin type yet? Holy Skin offers a free online skin diagnosis to help you get a clearer picture. How convenient is that?
Korean Double Cleansing: The Foundation of Everything ✨
Before choosing THE product that will change your routine, here's a quick reminder: Korean cleansing is done in two steps.
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Cleansing oil (or Korean makeup remover oil) : to dissolve makeup, sunscreens and excess sebum.
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Water-based cleanser (gel or foam) : to remove remaining impurities and gently purify the skin.
This method truly rids the skin of all polluting particles without sensitizing it. A real key to healthy, clear skin, ready to receive care.
Our TOP 8 Best Korean Face Cleansers 2025 🔥
After dozens of tests, comparisons, and customer reviews, here's our selection of must-haves. All are available on Holy Skin , your French Korean skincare store with personalized turnkey routines .
1. COSRX – Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
A Korean cleanser enriched with salicylic acid to remove impurities, tighten pores, and prevent breakouts. Ideal for acne-prone or blackhead-prone skin.
2. COSRX – Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
A classic! This facial cleansing gel is one of the most recommended in the world. It regulates excess sebum, preserves the skin barrier, and is ideal for normal to combination skin.
3. Beauty of Joseon – Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser
A Korean cleansing gel ideal for sensitive skin, enriched with green plum. It cleanses without drying and respects the skin's natural pH. Fresh texture, instantly feeling pure.
4. Anua – Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam
A deep-cleansing facial foam that purifies pores thanks to heartleaf, a soothing and anti-blemish ingredient. Creamy texture, very clean finish without tightness.
5. SKIN1004 – Madagascar Centella Foam Ampoule
A gentle Korean soap in luxurious lather, enriched with Centella Asiatica from Madagascar. Ideal for sensitive skin, it strengthens the skin barrier and provides a truly comfortable experience.
6. Some By Mi - AHA BHA PHA Miracle Acne Clear Foam
The ultimate purifying mousse. It gently exfoliates with acids and targets imperfections without damaging the skin. A must-have for oily and blemish-prone skin.
7. Some By Mi - Yuja Niacin Brightening All-In-One Cleanser
A Korean facial cleanser with multiple benefits: radiance, anti-blemish, and hydration. It contains yuja (a citrus fruit rich in vitamin C) and niacinamide to brighten the complexion. Perfect for dull complexions.
8. Round Lab – 1025 Dokdo Cleanser
This facial cleansing gel is infused with deep water from Dokdo Island. It hydrates, soothes, and gently cleanses thanks to its minimalist formulation. A must-have for dehydrated skin.
How to Clean Your Face Properly? Mistakes to Avoid
Cleansing your face seems simple, but there are some common mistakes that sabotage your routine:
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Using water that is too hot (this damages the skin)
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Rub excessively with gloves or abrasive brushes
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Choosing a cleanser that is too aggressive for your skin type
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Skip the facial cleansing oil step if you wear sunscreen or makeup.
For optimal cleansing, adopt Korean double cleansing , and choose a texture that suits your needs: gel, foam or oil.
FAQ: Korean Face Cleanser 💬
What is the difference between a Korean cleansing gel and a facial cleansing foam?
Cleansing gel has a fluid texture that foams only very lightly, if at all. It is generally gentler and is well suited to combination or sensitive skin. Cleansing foam, on the other hand, offers a lighter texture, generally ideal for normal to oily skin.
Should I use a Korean cleansing oil if I don't wear makeup?
Yes, because cleansing oil also dissolves sebum, pollution, and sunscreens. Even without makeup, it remains essential for effective, non-aggressive cleansing.
How do I know which Korean cleanser to choose?
It all depends on your skin type! Dry skin? Opt for a gentle foam like SKIN1004. Oily skin? Try COSRX with salicylic acid. Dull skin? Some By Mi's Yuja Niacin is for you! And to make sure you're not mistaken, Holy Skin offers personalized routines for each skin type.
Our verdict? A ritual not to be neglected 😥
There's no one-size-fits-all "best" Korean face cleanser of 2025, but there is one that's right for YOU. The right cleanser is one that respects your skin, makes you want to cleanse your face morning and night, and fits into a consistent routine.
At Holy Skin , we're here to help you find just that — with personalized routines, a free diagnosis, and the best K-beauty gems just a click away. ✨
