The Best Korean Cleansers | As Seen in Vogue

Korean cleansers have become skincare staples thanks to their innovative formulas, gentle ingredients, and emphasis on maintaining the skin’s natural barrier. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alexandra Bowles shared her favorite Korean cleansers with Vogue, highlighting products that balance effective cleansing with hydration, soothing botanicals, and barrier support. Below, she breaks down her top recommendations and what makes each one stand out.

Which Korean cleansers do you recommend?

Innisfree Sulfate-Free Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam

This cleanser contains green tea water, which helps with skin hydration, while its amino acid complexes cleanse the skin gently. It’s a great option for those who want a refreshing clean without feeling stripped or tight afterward. The green tea extract is rich in antioxidants that soothe inflammation and protect the skin from environmental stressors.

CosRx Advanced Snail Mucin Gel Cleanser

I like to recommend this one for daily use because it balances effective cleansing with hydration and barrier support. The snail mucin helps to calm, smooth, and strengthen the skin, making it ideal for all skin types — especially if you’re prone to dryness or irritation. It also includes allantoin and hyaluronic acid, which help lock in moisture and promote healing.

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Foaming Face Wash Cleanser

This cleanser helps promote hydration without drying the skin out. Formulated with centella asiatica (or “cica”), it’s particularly soothing for those with sensitive or redness-prone skin. The addition of herbs like mugwort and houttuynia cordata helps to calm inflammation and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier.

The Face Shop Rice Foaming Facial Cleanser

Rice water is rich in vitamins, amino acids, and other nutrients that contribute to brighter, cleaner skin. I often recommend this for patients looking to boost radiance and achieve a smoother, more even complexion. The rice bran extract in the formula gently exfoliates while adding nourishment, giving skin a healthy glow.

Peach & Lily Power Calm Hydrating Gel Cleanser

This gel cleanser can be particularly beneficial for sensitive or dehydrated skin. It uses calming ingredients that help support the skin barrier while providing a thorough, non-stripping cleanse. Key ingredients like chamomile and camellia extract work to soothe irritation, while hyaluronic acid provides lasting hydration.

Erborian Centella Cleansing Gel

I like this lightweight gel because it removes the last traces of dirt and makeup while keeping the skin smooth and hydrated. It’s a great choice for anyone who prefers a gentle but effective second cleanse. Its formula includes licorice root and centella asiatica extracts, which brighten and calm the skin at the same time.

Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil

This nourishing oil cleanser uses plant oils that leave the skin soft while maintaining barrier health. I recommend it for anyone who wears heavier makeup or sunscreen — it’s a perfect first step in a double-cleansing routine. It contains a blend of olive, jojoba, and argan oils that dissolve impurities while adding moisture and essential fatty acids back into the skin.

Etude SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Facial Cleanser

It cleans gently without irritation, making it ideal for sensitive or reactive skin. I often suggest it to patients who want a mild, calming cleanser that protects the skin’s natural barrier. With panthenol to restore hydration and madecassoside to calm redness, it’s one of my go-to choices for anyone with compromised skin.

Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

I like this cleansing balm for patients who need deep cleansing without dryness or irritation. It melts away buildup while leaving skin soft, hydrated, and refreshed. The balm is infused with ceramides and soothing botanical oils that replenish the skin barrier while thoroughly removing impurities.

Anua Rice Enzyme Brightening Cleansing Powder

This powder cleanser is great for adding radiance and smoothness without irritation. You can adjust the intensity by changing how much water you add, which makes it suitable for both normal and sensitive skin types. The rice enzymes provide gentle exfoliation, while niacinamide helps brighten dull areas and improve overall tone.