Korean Cleansing Oils and Balms

Korean cleansing oil is the first step of the popular double-cleansing routine. An oil cleanser dissolves makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum and oil-based residue especially gently, without drying out the skin. At Korean Eden you will find selected Korean cleansing oils and cleansing balms for all skin types – from dry and sensitive skin to combination skin and oily skin.

Korean cleansing oil for gentle, thorough cleansing

A Korean cleansing oil, also called an oil cleanser, removes makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum and dirt especially thoroughly. In Korean skincare, cleansing oil is usually used as the first step of the double-cleansing routine. The oil-based cleansing first dissolves oil-soluble residue before a water-based cleanser frees the skin of sweat and water-soluble deposits.

The advantage of a good cleansing oil lies in its gentle but effective action. Instead of leaving the skin feeling dry or tight after cleansing, the oil binds with makeup, SPF, sebum and other oily residue. On contact with water, the cleansing oil emulsifies into a milky texture and rinses off easily.

Which skin type is cleansing oil suitable for?

Cleansing oil for oily skin and combination skin

A cleansing oil can be very well suited even for oily skin. The principle of "oil dissolves oil" helps gently remove excess sebum, sunscreen and oil-based residue. For oily skin and combination skin, especially light Korean cleansing oils that emulsify well and leave no heavy feeling on the skin are a good choice.

Cleansing oil for sensitive skin

Sensitive skin benefits from mild Korean cleansing oils that thoroughly dissolve makeup and sunscreen without putting unnecessary strain on the skin barrier. Formulations with soothing ingredients such as Centella Asiatica, heartleaf, green tea or rice extract are especially popular.

Cleansing oil for dry skin

For dry skin, nourishing cleansing oils are ideal because they cleanse thoroughly and at the same time leave a pleasant, supple feeling on the skin. Korean cleansing oils with ginseng, jojoba oil, rice extract or avocado oil can gently care for the skin during cleansing.

How to use Korean cleansing oil correctly

1. Apply 1–2 pumps of cleansing oil to dry skin.
2. Gently massage the oil in, especially on areas with makeup, sunscreen or clogged pores.
3. Wet your hands with a little water until the oil emulsifies into a milky texture.
4. Rinse everything off thoroughly with lukewarm water.
5. Afterwards, optionally use a water-based cleanser for the classic double-cleansing routine.

Cleansing oil or cleansing balm?

Cleansing oil and cleansing balm serve a similar purpose: both dissolve makeup, sunscreen, sebum and oil-based residue. A cleansing oil has a liquid texture and spreads quickly over the skin. A cleansing balm is more solid, melts on application and is especially well suited for anyone who prefers a richer texture.

Buy Korean cleansing oil at Korean Eden

At Korean Eden you will find selected Korean cleansing oils and oil cleansers from popular K-Beauty brands such as Anua, Beauty of Joseon, SKIN1004, PURITO, Heimish and Haruharu Wonder. Choose your cleansing oil to match your skin type and combine it with a mild water-based cleanser for a complete Korean double-cleansing routine.

Frequently asked questions about Korean cleansing oil

What is a Korean cleansing oil?

A Korean cleansing oil is an oil-based facial cleanser that gently dissolves makeup, sunscreen, sebum and dirt. It is usually used as the first step in double cleansing.

Is cleansing oil also suitable for oily skin?

Yes, cleansing oil can also be suitable for oily skin. Oil-based cleansing helps dissolve excess sebum and oily residue without drying out the skin unnecessarily.

Does cleansing oil clog pores?

A cleansing oil that emulsifies well rinses off thoroughly and should leave no greasy residue. For blemish-prone skin, a water-based cleanser is recommended afterwards.

When do I use cleansing oil?

It is best to use cleansing oil in the evening, especially if you have worn sunscreen, makeup or waterproof products.

What is the difference between cleansing oil and cleansing balm?

Both products cleanse on an oil basis. Cleansing oil is liquid, while a cleansing balm has a solid texture that melts on contact with the skin.

Do I need to use a second cleanser after cleansing oil?

For the classic Korean double-cleansing routine, a water-based cleanser is used after the cleansing oil. This is especially useful if you have worn sunscreen, makeup or waterproof products.