Are you searching for the best Korean Cleaning balm?
Finding a K-beauty cleansing balm is no easy feat. With so many products on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are worth your time (and money).
I considered several factors to come up with this list, including ingredients, effectiveness, value for money, consistency, and customer reviews
So without further ado, here are the best Korean balms for cleansing.
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Table of Contents
Top K-Beauty Cleansing Balm at a Glance
- Best Korean Cleansing Balm for All Skin Types: BANILA CO – Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
- Best Korean Cleansing Balm for Sensitive Skin: Heimish All Clean Balm
- Best Cruelty-Free Korean Cleansing Balm: FARMACY – Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm
- Best 3-in-1 Korean Cleansing Balm: ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
- Best Korean Cleansing Balm for Normal Skin: The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm
Don’t have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
![[heimish] All Clean Balm 1.7 fl.oz/50ml | Natural Facial Cleansing Balm with Aroma Oils | Double Cleanse for Sensitive Skin, Travel Size](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31hpBwouz0L.jpg "10 Best Korean Cleansing Balms for Your Skin [Review] 3")
10 Best Korean Cleansing Balm Reviews
Here’s a list of the best Korean cleansing oil balms that are worth every penny!
1. Best Korean Cleansing Balm for All Skin Types: BANILA CO – Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
The Banila CO-Clean It Zero is a cult classic for a reason. It’s an effective, gentle, and affordable balm that works on all skin types.
This balm is a lightweight, sorbet-like makeup removing cleanser that melts into a smooth oil when you apply it to your skin.
The balm is formulated with pumpkin extract and vitamin ingredients, which work perfectly to remove waterproof makeup, oil, and dirt in one step.
And the best part?
It does all this without stripping your face of its natural oils. Instead, it leaves your skin feeling hydrated and looking healthy.
Measurements
The balm comes in a 100ml container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the Banila CO-Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Suitable for all skin types | Individuals with dry skin may find this product a tad bit drying |
| Doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils | |
| Affordable |
How It Compares to Others
The Banilla CO-Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm’s unique selling point is that it works for all skin types.
Expert Tips
Although it’s meant to work on all skin types, it’s best to do a patch test before using the Banila CO-Clean It Zero is best for dry skin.
This way, you can ensure that your skin will not react negatively to the product.
Testimonial
Here’s what one user thought:
| I saw it on Stylevana BANILA CO – Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm – Vita-Pumpkin – 100ml |
2. Best Korean Cleansing Balm for Sensitive Skin: Heimish All Clean Balm
If you have sensitive skin, the Heimish All Clean Balm is the best Korean cleansing balm for you.
The Heimish All Clean Balm is gentle and non-irritating, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
The star ingredients in this balm are Coconut Extract and Shea Butter, both known for their hydrating and nourishing properties.
Coconut extract is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm the skin. (1)
Thanks to its deep penetrating nature, this balm is perfect for removing makeup and dirt.
Measurements
The balm comes in a 50ml container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the Heimish All Clean Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Made with natural ingredients | Sting the eyes |
| Super hydrating | Not the best for sensitive skin because it contains essential oils that may irritate the skin. |
| Affordable |
How It Compares to Others
The Heimish All Clean Balm’s unique selling point is that it’s super hydrating and perfect for sensitive skin.
Expert Tips
Skin expert Carolina Hirons emphasizes the importance of a double cleanse. (2)
She says, “The reason we (facialists) do two cleanses is fairly obvious but in short: we believe it is better to do two quick, gently cleanses than one long one.”
Testimonial
Here’s what one user thought:
- All Clean balm: Solid cleanser that melts into oil and gently cleanses the face, clearing up blackheads and clogged pores
- Texutre: In its untouched state the product is hard and solid. In its liquid form the product is oil-like
- Washes off easily with water without leaving any residue. Contains a mild herbal fragrance that does not linger on your skin
- How to Use: 1. Use the mini spatula to scoop a decent amount on to your face. 2. The balm will start melting a it comes in contact with your skin. 3.Massage the areas that need cleaning, spreading the liquified balm over your face. 4. After couple of minutes rinse the product using water
- heimish Brand: focuses primarily on makeup in neutral shades suitable for everyday wear. The brand's range of colors and attractive packaging appeal to the modern woman who want a refreshing yet natural look. All heimish products are cruelty-free, made without parabens and manufactured in Korea.
3. Best Cruelty-Free Korean Cleansing Balm: FARMACY – Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm
If you’re trying to move to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable beauty routine, this balm is for you.
FARMACY didn’t leave any stone unturned when they were formulating this product.
The texture of the balm is luxurious, and it melts into your skin effortlessly.
The balm contains sunflower and ginger root oils that remove even the boldest makeup looks.
In addition, it contains papaya extract that gently exfoliates dead skin cells, leaving it looking and feeling radiant.
Measurements
The balm comes in a 50, 100, and 200ml container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the FARMACY – Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Cruelty-free | Jar packing is a little inconvenient |
| Paraben-free | Expensive |
| Synthetic fragrance-free | |
| Safe for all skin types | |
| Comes in various sizes |
How It Compares to Others
This balm gives the competition a run for their money because it’s cruelty-free and doesn’t contain any synthetic fragrances, which can be irritating to some people.
Expert Tips
I’d recommend getting this balm in the smallest size available, just to make sure you like it before committing to a larger size.
Testimonials
Here’s what one buyer thought:
| Check Latest Price FARMACY – Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm – 100ml |
D
If you’re looking for a do-it-all product, this is the one for you. It can be used as a cleanser, makeup remover, and mask.
I love a product that does more than one thing, and this balm fits that bill. This product nourishes, hydrates, and removes makeup.
The balm is infused with lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus with elderberry, starflower, and optimega oil to nourish the skin and give the balm a unique scent.
Measurements
The balm comes in a 100g container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| It’s a 3-in-1 cleansing balm | The container is too small |
| Infused with natural oils | The shea butter in the oil may clog your pores if you have oily skin |
| Pocket-friendly |
How It Compares to Others
it’s a pocket-friendly 3-in -1 product.
Expert Tips
Even though this balm is a 3-in-1 balm that claims to remove makeup, cleanse, and moisturize the skin, I would still recommend using a separate moisturizer for optimal results.
Testimonials
Here’s what one user thought:
- Cleansing treatment balm
- Deep Cleanses, Softens, Nourishes
- For fine lines and wrinkles
- Padina Pavonica, Starflower, Elderberry
5. Best Korean Cleansing Balm for Normal Skin: The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm
You won’t go wrong with the award-winning INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm if you have normal skin characterized by a radiant complexion, very few imperfections, barely visible pores, and no severe sensitivity.
This product has a short ingredient list packed with good-for-you ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and oat kernel oil.
These ingredients help soothe and calm the skin while cleansing it of dirt, makeup, and impurities.
You’ll also be happy to know that this balm cleanses your skin without stripping it of its natural oil. It’s also perfect for soothing skin redness.
Measurements
This balm comes in 50 and 150 ml containers.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Soothes skin redness | Some users didn’t like the texture |
| Affordable | Pricey |
| Comes in various sizes | |
How It Compares to Others
This product’s unique selling point is that it’s highly moisturizing and gets rid of even waterproof makeup. It’s also one of the most affordable balms on the market.
Expert Tips
When using any skin products, it’s crucial to wash your hands before application. Doing so will go a long way in preventing the spread of bacteria and other contaminants that can cause skin irritation.
Testimonials
Here’s what one customer thought:
- The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm. Our best-selling cleansing balm. Melt away makeup and impurities without drying your skin. This 3-in-1 cleanser is also a shaving balm in the shower and a 10-minute nourishing facial mask.
- Gentle, Yet Effective. This delicate cleanser gently melts away makeup and SPF while leaving your skin uplifted with hydration. Perfect as a first cleanser in your double cleanse routine.
- Powerful Ingredients, Real Results. Formulated with Oat Kernel Oil, a rich, natural Oat Oil that hydrates and moisturizes the skin and effectively removes SPF. Colloidal Oatmeal works to visibly reduce redness and soothe irritated skin
- How To Use It. Massage a raspberry-sized amount of the Cleansing Balm onto dampened face and neck, then rinse thoroughly. Can be used in your AM & PM skincare routine.
- Your Needs, Our Knowledge. We believe that better knowledge powers better decisions. Skincare is a journey, and we are in it together.
6. Best Korean Cleansing Balm for Dry Skin: Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm
Your dry skin will thank you for using this hydrating balm from Versed. The plant-based formula is packed with natural ingredients that help to soothe and nourish the skin.
This balm is formulated with vitamin E, eucalyptus, and jojoba oil that deeply penetrate the skin to cleanse and hydrate.
I also love that you can use it both morning and night without worrying about it being too harsh on your skin.
Measurements
This cleansing balm comes in a 67g container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the Versed Day Dissolved Cleansing Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Doesn’t strip the skin | Includes fragrance ingredients that increase the risk for irritation. |
| Affordable | |
| Cruelty-free |
How It Compares to Others
The Versed Day Dissolved Balm stands out from the crowd because it’s an affordable cruelty-free option. Most cruelty-free balms are on the pricier side, so it’s great to have an affordable option.
Expert Tips
The manufacturer recommends using Day Dissolve first if you prefer double-cleansing. (3) For your second cleanse, ensure you use a water-soluble cleanser for the best results.
Testimonial
Here’s what one buyer thought:
- Makeup Melting Balm - An alternative to disposable cleansing wipes, this oil based cleanser melts away makeup and impurities without stripping moisture. It’s especially beneficial as a first cleanse in a double cleanser routine.
- Ingredients - The refreshing eucalyptus oil & vitamin E makeup removing balm also contains avocado, jojoba and clove leaf oil for a nourishing spa like cleanse without any artificial fragrance.
- Gentle Cleansing Milk - As you massage it into your skin the oil-based cleansing balm formula softens to create a light, gentle milk that rinses clean with no oily residue. Perfect as a start to your PM wind-down ritual.
- How to Use - Good as a waterproof makeup remover. Massage a dime-size amount of the balm onto dry face, wet fingertips and continue to massage until completely dissolved. Rinse and gently pat dry. Don't forget to cleanse into your hairline and along your jawline - those often overlooked areas are prone to breakouts.
- High Performance, Not Hype - High-performance makeup cleansing balm with a purpose. Clean, proven ingredients at skin-changing levels, we deliver skin care with results that warrant restocking.
7. Best Budget Korean Cleansing Balm: CLINIQUE Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
The CLINIQUE Take The Day Off Balm is an excellent option if you’re on a tight budget. It’s gentle on the skin and effectively removes makeup.
This CLINIQUE balm is also an all-natural product. The balm is solid but melts into an oil when applied to the skin and doesn’t feel greasy.
I also love that it’s fragrance-free and non-irritating.
Measurements
This balm comes in a 30, 125, and 200ml container
Benefits & Drawbacks of the CLINIQUE Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Comes in various sizes | It may not be a good option for individuals who love scents in their skincare products. |
| Fragrance-free | Not the best for stubborn makeup |
| It’s an all-natural product |
How It Compares to Others
CLINIQUE’s unique selling point is that it’s an all-natural product that comes in various sizes. It’s also fragrance-free, which is an excellent option for those who are sensitive to smells or have sensitive skin.
Expert Tips
I’d recommend using the CLINIQUE balm as part of a double cleanse. This way, you can remove all traces of makeup, dirt, and oil.
Testimonial
Here’s what one buyer thought:
- Design House: Clinique
- CLINIQUE by Clinique: TAKE THE DAY OFF CLEANSING BALM-/3.8OZ
- Package Dimensions: 4.902 L x 8.305 H x 8.204 W (centimeters)
- Item Package Weight: 8.5 ounces
8. Best Deep Cleansing Balm: Bliss Mighty Biome Pre/Post Biotics + Barrier Aid Deep Cleansing Balm
If you like keeping your routine simple, the Bliss Mighty Biome Pre/Post Biotics + Barrier Aid Deep Balm is a great option.
This cleansing balm is formulated with Prebiotic Beta Glucan & Postbiotic Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, which work together to reinforce and restore your skin’s natural barrier.
It also contains beta carotene, squalane, and ceramide NP blend to nourish and hydrate your skin while you cleanse.
Measurements
The Bliss Mighty balm comes in an 85g container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the Bliss Mighty Biome Pre/Post Biotics + Barrier Aid Deep Cleansing Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Deep cleansing | Some users didn’t like the texture. |
| Nourishes and hydrates the skin | It may not be the best for people who love fragrances |
| Affordable | |
How It Compares to Others
The Bliss Mighty balm stands out from the competition because it is affordable and does a great job at deep cleansing and nourishing the skin.
Expert Tips
If you find the texture of this balm too thick, I’d recommend warming it up in your hands for a few seconds before applying it to your face.
Testimonial
Here’s what one happy customer thought:
” I love this cleansing balm. It leaves my skin squeaky clean without stripping, and it’s super moisturizing!”
9. Best Calming Korean Cleansing Balm: Farm Stay – CICA FARM CALMING CLEANSING BALM
If you have sensitive skin, this is the cleansing balm for you. It’s also great for people who struggle with redness and inflammation.
The star ingredient in this balm is Centella Asiatica Acid, which hydrates, soothes, and deeply cleanses your face.
Measurements
The CICA FARM balm comes in a 95 ml container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the Farm Stay – CICA FARM CALMING CLEANSING BALM
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Soothes irritated skin | Doesn’t come in multiple sizes |
| Deeply cleanses | Some users didn’t like the smell |
| Affordable | |
| Doesn’t strip the skin |
How It Compares to Others
The Farm Stay balm is one of the most calming and gentle balms on the market, making it the best option for sensitive skin.
Expert Tips
For best results, use the Farm Stay balm to cleanse your face in the morning and evening.
Follow up with a toner, essence, and moisturizer safe for sensitive skin to complete your skincare routine.
Testimonial
Here’s what one happy buyer thought:
“I have a hard time finding a cleansing balm that doesn’t irritate my already sensitive skin. This one not only calms but has greatly improved the appearance of my skin.”
| Check Latest Price Farm Stay – CICA FARM CALMING CLEANSING BALM – 95ml |
10. Best Exfoliating Korean Cleansing Balm: Leaders – Calming Clear Milk Peel Cleanse Balm
I don’t know about you, but I love a good exfoliating balm, and the Leaders – Calming Clear Milk Peel Cleanse Balm does not disappoint.
This cleansing balm is an excellent option for those with sensitive skin, as it contains Centella Asiatica-derived ingredients that have soothing effects.
The balm also contains Bambusa Arundinacea, natural cellulose that gently exfoliates the skin.
Measurements
This balm comes in a 180ml container.
Benefits & Drawbacks of the Leaders – Calming Clear Milk Peel Cleanse Balm
| Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Exfoliates the skin | It balls up when you massage it into your skin. |
| An excellent option for sensitive skin | Doesn’t remove stubborn makeup effectively. |
| Comes in a large container |
How It Compares to Others
This Leader’s balm’s unique selling point is its exfoliating properties. This is thanks to the Bambusa arundinacea in the cream.
Expert Tips
To prevent the balm from balling up, I’d recommend using a pea-sized amount and warming it up sufficiently before use. You can always add more if you feel like you need it.
Testimonial
Here’s what one happy customer had to say about this cleansing balm:
” I was skeptical. But I have to say this is the best cleansing balm I’ve ever used. Take all my money!”
| I saw it on Stylevana Leaders – Calming Clear Milk Peel Cleanse Balm – 180ml |
How to Choose the Best Korean Cleansing Balm
Whether you’re shopping for a Korean oil cleanser for dry skin korean cleansing oil or a cleansing balm, one thing is certain – you must know what to look for to identify the best product.
The main things you should look for are:
#1 The Type of Skin the Product is Good For
Cleansing balm Korean products are available for all skin types – normal, combination, oily, dry, and sensitive.
So, the first step is to identify your skin type.
Once you know your skin type, it’ll be easier to find a product that will work well. For example, if you have oily skin, look for a product formulated for that skin type.
#2 Ingredients Used in the Product
When it comes to ingredients, less is more. The fewer ingredients in a product, the less likely it will cause irritation or skin reactions.
So, when you’re looking at Korean balms, take a close look at the ingredient list. If there are a lot of unfamiliar ingredients, it’s probably best to avoid that product.
#3 Brand
The brand of a product is also important to consider. When it comes to Korean beauty products, there are a lot of great brands to choose from.
So, do some research on the different brands before you purchase.
#4 Price
It’s also crucial to consider price when shopping for a Korean cleansing balm. Just because a product is expensive doesn’t mean it’s better quality.
Likewise, a cheaper product doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not as good.
To find the best value, take a close look at the ingredients and reviews before making your final decision.
FAQs
Why Do Koreans Double Cleanse?
Korean skin care double cleansing aims at thoroughly cleansing the skin, getting rid of all impurities – including makeup, dirt, and excess sebum.
Do You Have to Double Cleanse When Using Cleansing Balms?
Yes. Since balms are formulated to be mild and gentle, they are not as effective on their own in removing all traces of makeup and dirt. Double cleansing will give you the best results.
Which is Better, Cleansing Balm or Oil?
Balms are better than oils because they’re gentler and less likely to clog your pores.
Should You Wash Your Face After Using a Cleansing Balm?
It’s not mandatory. However, if you’re following a double cleansing routine, follow up the cleansing balm with a water-soluble cleanser.
Are Cleansing Balms Better Than Micellar Water?
Micellar water is more convenient because it’s a one-step cleanser. However, balms are more effective because they remove all traces of makeup and dirt while nourishing your skin with multiple ingredients.
Do Cleansing Balms Cause Acne?
Some of the oils used in the balms are comedogenic, which means they can clog pores and result in inflammation. If you have acne-prone skin, thoroughly remove the balm from your face.
Wrapping Up
If you were searching for the best Korean cleansing balm, I hope this article was helpful. Remember to look for a product that suits your skin type and needs.
And as always, patch test before using any new product on your face!
| I saw it on Stylevana BANILA CO – Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm – Vita-Pumpkin – 100ml |
Have you tried any of these balms? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
References
1. Day Dissolve. Versed Skin. Accessed May 30, 2022. https://versedskin.com/products/day-dissolve-cleansing-balm
2. North E. How to wash your face properly, according to the experts. GoodtoKnow. Published December 23, 2021. Accessed May 30, 2022. https://www.goodto.com/wellbeing/beauty-basics-how-to-cleanse-your-face-91041
3. Silva RR, e Silva DO, Fontes HR, Alviano CS, Fernandes PD, Alviano DS. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of Cocos nucifera var. typica. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2013;13(1). doi:10.1186/1472-6882-13-107
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