Best Korean Cleansing Oils for Every Skin Type
If you’re building a Korean skincare routine, choosing the best Korean cleansing oil is one of the most important steps. Oil cleansing is the foundation of double cleansing, a method that removes sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum without stripping your skin barrier.
Unlike traditional cleansers that can leave skin feeling tight, cleansing oils are formulated to emulsify gently, rinse cleanly and support hydration. When chosen correctly, they help reduce congestion, smooth texture and leave skin feeling balanced rather than greasy.
In this guide, you’ll find our top picks for every need, plus a breakdown of how to choose the right one for your skin type, how to use this type of cleanser and a handy FAQ!
What Is a Korean Cleansing Oil?
A Korean oil cleanser is a lightweight cleansing oil designed to dissolve oil-based impurities such as sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum. It works on the principle that oil attracts oil, allowing it to break down buildup without harsh scrubbing.
When mixed with water, these cleansers emulsify into a milky texture that rinses away cleanly. They are typically used as the first step in a double cleansing routine, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser.
Why Korean Cleansing Oils Are So Effective
Korean oil cleansers stand out because they are formulated with skin barrier health in mind. Instead of relying on heavy mineral oils or pore-clogging ingredients, many include lightweight plant oils and calming extracts.
Benefits of using a Korean cleansing oil include:
Thorough removal of SPF and makeup
Reduced appearance of blackheads and clogged pores
Less stripping compared to foaming cleansers alone
Improved absorption of the rest of your skincare
If you’re aiming for smoother, more radiant skin, starting with the right cleanser makes every other step more effective. It’s also the first essential step in achieving clear, luminous skin. To build your full Korean skincare routine, check out this step-by-step guide to Korean glass skin.
How to Use a Korean Oil Cleanser
For best results, follow these steps:
Step 1 Apply to dry skin. Dispense one to two pumps into dry hands and massage onto a dry face for 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 2 Focus on areas with congestion or heavy makeup, such as around the nose and chin.
Step 3 Add a small amount of water and continue massaging. The oil will turn milky as it emulsifies.
Step 4 Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Step 5 Follow with a gentle water-based cleanser to complete your double cleanse.
Korean Oil Cleansers: Our Top Picks
Best Overall Korean Cleansing Oil: Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil
A luxurious oil cleanser that dissolves makeup, sunscreen and impurities while hydrating the skin with a blend of traditional herbal oils and gentle surfactants. Its silky texture leaves skin feeling smooth, soft and comfortably clean without stripping essential moisture.
RRP: £36 - Find it on Cult Beauty
Best for Oily Skin: Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
Formulated with heartleaf extract and lightweight botanical oils that help control excess sebum and calm irritation. It effectively removes oil-based impurities while helping to refine the look of enlarged pores.
RRP: £16 - Find it on Cult Beauty
Best for Blemish-Prone Skin: SOME BY MI Lacto Soy Sebum & Blackhead Cleansing Oil
This cleansing oil uses soy-based ingredients and gentle sebum-targeting actives to help dissolve clogged pores and reduce blackhead buildup. The result is a cleaner, clearer complexion with less congestion.
RRP: £22 - Find it on Korean Skincare
Best for Dry Skin: MISSHA Super Off Cleansing Oil Dryness Of
Crafted with nourishing plant oils that help melt away makeup and impurities while supporting the skin’s natural moisture balance. It leaves dry or dehydrated skin feeling soft and comfortable rather than tight.
RRP: £19 - Find it on Korean Skincare
Best for Sensitive Skin: Thank You Farmer Rice Pure Milky Cleansing Oil
Powered by soothing rice extracts and conditioning oils, this cleansing oil gently lifts away makeup without irritating delicate skin. It emulsifies into a milky texture to rinse clean without tugging or dryness.
RRP: £22 - Find on on Cult Beauty
Best for Removing Heavy Makeup: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
Formulated with Madagascar centella asiatica extract and a blend of lightweight plant oils, this cleansing oil effortlessly melts away heavy makeup, long-wear foundation and stubborn sunscreen without harsh rubbing. Despite its powerful cleansing ability, it rinses clean and leaves skin feeling calm, fresh and balanced rather than stripped.
RRP: £22 - Find it on Cult Beauty or Sephora
Best Budget Korean Cleansing Oil: iUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil
Enriched with calendula extract to soothe and nourish as it removes oil-based impurities, making it an accessible choice for beginners. It delivers a comfortable cleanse without leaving behind a greasy feel.
RRP: £16 - Find it on Korean Skincare
Korean Cleansing Oil vs Cleansing Balm
Oil cleansers are liquid and typically feel lighter on the skin. Cleansing balms start as a solid and melt into an oil when massaged in.
Oil cleansers are often preferred for everyday use and for those who like a thinner texture. Balms may feel slightly richer and are sometimes better for removing heavy makeup.
Both can be effective, but the choice depends on texture preference and skin type.
How to Choose the Right Korean Cleansing Oil for Your Skin Type
For oily skin, look for lightweight formulas with calming ingredients like heartleaf or centella.
For acne-prone skin, choose formulas designed to target sebum and congestion without heavy oils.
For dry skin, opt for nourishing oils that support hydration and prevent tightness.
For sensitive skin, prioritise minimal ingredient lists and soothing extracts like rice or calendula.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Korean oil cleansers good for acne?
Yes, when formulated correctly. Many Korean oil cleansers are lightweight and designed to remove excess sebum without clogging pores. Choosing one tailored for acne-prone skin is important.
Can oil cleansers clog pores?
A well-formulated oil cleanser should emulsify and rinse cleanly, meaning it does not sit on the skin. Following with a water-based cleanser further reduces the risk of residue.
Do you need to double cleanse?
If you wear sunscreen or makeup, double cleansing is highly recommended. An oil cleanser removes oil-based buildup, while a second cleanser removes sweat and water-based impurities.
How long should you massage an oil cleanser?
Around 30 to 60 seconds is ideal. This gives the oil time to break down makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum before emulsifying and rinsing.
Do You Need a cleansing oil every day?
If you wear sunscreen daily, which is recommended, then using an oil cleanser in the evening is highly beneficial. Sunscreen is oil-based and doesn’t always come off fully with a water-based cleanser alone.
In the morning, oil cleansing is usually unnecessary unless you prefer it. Most people only need it in their evening routine.
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