Lately, I've noticed the best Korean cleansing oils popping up all over TikTok and Instagram, and for all the right reasons. In my quest for that coveted glass skin, I’ve realized these oils are the “magician’s secret” in dissolving makeup and skin impurities effortlessly, setting the stage for a radiant complexion. A staple in Asian skincare, these oils are perfect for double cleansing and make sure your skin is super clean and ready to absorb all nourishment from the products that follow. In short, adding a Korean cleansing oil to your cabinet could be the best skincare breakthrough for all skincare junkies!

From meticulously selecting the best products to putting them to the test, I embarked on a journey to find the creme de la creme of Korean cleansing oils. The quest was real, the results were glowing, and now, I'm here to share my top picks with you. Scroll down to uncover the secrets behind Korean skincare, why it's stealing the spotlight, and how you too can achieve that coveted K-beauty glow. 

Korean cleansing oils have gained popularity, even among celebrities, for their gentle yet effective way to cleanse the skin. These oils work on the principle of "like dissolves like," effortlessly dissolving makeup, sunscreen, and oil-soluble impurities without stripping the skin too much, which makes them suitable for drier skin types.

Celebrities like Emma Stone have shared their love for double cleansing, which starts with an oil cleanser. This method not only ensures deep skin purification but also prepares the skin for subsequent skincare products, enhancing their absorption and efficacy. Regular use can lead to clearer, softer skin, making it a worthy addition to everyone’s skincare routine, celebrity or not.

• 1
  Editor’s Choice

  Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil

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Crafted for the perfect double-cleanse, this cleansing oil from Sulwhasoo (a legendary Korean brand) melts away makeup without that icky greasy feel.  It's free from mineral oil, which can leave your skin feeling heavy and slick. The magic lies in its blend of Korean medicinal herbs — these ingredients not only cleanse but also nourish your skin deeply. 

Every time I use it, my skin feels super clean, soft, and refreshed, says one reviewer, and I totally agree. It is a staple in my cabinet, and if you try it, you’ll be just as obsessed with its soothing scent!

Key Ingredients: Citrus extracts, squalane

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 1.69 oz

2

Best for Large Pores

Dear Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil

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When it comes to top Korean skincare brands, Dear Klairs shines bright with its cleansing oil that aims to clear the epidermis. This stellar product is ideal for those new to double-cleansing. Featuring a blend of black bean oil, black sesame seed oil, and black currant seed oil, it's designed to remove oil-based impurities and stubborn mascara stains while being gentle on the skin. 

Its hypoallergenic formula makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. After reading countless reviews and testing it myself, I give it a glowing 5-star rating for its effectiveness and skin compatibility.

Quick Tip:

For optimal results, use this cleansing oil daily, as part of your evening skincare routine.

Key Ingredients: Black bean oil, black sesame seed oil, and black currant seed oil

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 5.07 oz

3

Best Hypoallergenic

ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil

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The ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil is taking the Korean beauty scene by storm, and I totally see why! This cleansing oil is crafted with a potent blend of heartleaf and turmeric extracts along with grapeseed and olive oils. It’s a non-comedogenic pick that gently but effectively removes makeup, reduces blackheads, and sweeps away impurities without any fuss. 

After using it myself, I noticed how it leaves my skin feeling super clean and soft, without any oily residue. It's perfect for anyone looking to refine their pores and boost their skin’s overall health, making me (and thousands of reviewers) absolutely love this find!

Key Ingredients: Heartleaf extracts, turmeric extracts, grapeseed oil and olive oil

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 6.76 oz

4

Best for Blackheads

Thank You Farmer Pollufree Pore Deep Cleansing Oil

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As someone who’s dipped her toes in countless skincare products, THANKYOU FARMER's cleansing oil has genuinely raised the bar. Fragrance-free and gentle, this oil is my go-to for double cleansing. Enriched with Korean perilla herb extract, known for soothing sensitive skin, and combined with a blend of five plant-derived oils, it nourishes and moisturizes deeply. 

After using it, my skin feels soft, not stripped, and it effortlessly banishes whiteheads and blackheads without irritation. You reap what you sow when it comes to skincare, and I'm definitely thanking the farmer for this harvest of beauty!

Key Ingredients: Korean perilla herb extract

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 7.03 oz

5

Best Luxe Cleaning Oil

Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil

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From the dynasty that brought us sublime skincare, Beauty of Joseon presents this Ginseng Cleansing Oil, a treasure trove of natural beauty. Infused with soybean oil and rich ginseng seed oil, this product delves deep into the skin, gently removing impurities while revitalizing the complexion. 

Each application feels like a soft cloud, as the airy texture of the oil removes impurities from the skin and ensures a radiant glow. Perfect for anyone seeking a modern skincare routine, this cleansing oil not only cleanses but also enriches the skin with antioxidants, supporting the skin's elasticity and youthfulness. Truly, it's a royal treat for your daily regimen!

Key Ingredients: Soybean oil and ginseng seed oil

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 7.1 oz

6

Best for Irritated Skin

IUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil

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IUNIK's cleansing oil truly feels like a liquid bouquet for your skin, with its luxurious blend of calendula, sunflower, canola, cananga flower, macadamia, and jojoba oils. The product glides on with a silky texture that’s a real 'smooth' operator — meaning it helps remove the bumpy grime from the T-zone area. 

It does wonders in moisturizing and calming my irritated skin, while also offering sebum control and pore management. And with consistent trials of two weeks, I've noticed a real balance in my skin, which transitioned from being frumpy and bumpy to less bumpy and glowing. Perfect for removing makeup, sunscreen residue, and daily pollutants, this oil is a must-try for those with dry skin craving a radiant, refreshed complexion after a long day.

Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, canola oil, calendula

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 6.7 oz

7

Best Korean Cleansing Oil for Acne-prone Skin

ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil

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Here we have a K-Beauty gem, ma:nyo's cleansing oil, a must-try in my book! It's not just great at wiping away stubborn makeup; it also consistently helps clear out blackheads and whiteheads. When you add water, it transforms into a creamy, milky texture that feels like a treat on the skin, all while balancing its natural barrier and pH. 

The infused argan oil in it is a standout, deeply nourishing, and helps to control oil production (a study by Clinical Interventions in Aging). Lastly, it contains jojoba seed oil that enriches the skin with essential vitamins and omega fatty acids (supported by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science). 

Key Ingredients: Argan kernel oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 6.7 oz

8

Best Korean Cleansing Oil for Dry Skin

Coxir Ultra Hyaluronic Cleansing Oil

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Another great affordable dupe brand, Coxir, brings us this hydrating cleansing oil, that blends the power of hyaluronic acid with a soothing plant complex and aloe vera. This oil effortlessly melts away makeup and impurities, leaving the skin deeply hydrated. Its texture is silky and doesn't leave a greasy residue, making it a pleasure to use. 

Ideal for those with dry or dehydrated skin, it infuses moisture back into the skin while cleansing. The addition of green tea and rosehip adds a rejuvenating antioxidant boost. After use, my skin feels refreshed and supple — a true hydration hero.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, canola oil, rosehip oil, and camelia oil

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 5.07 oz

9

Best Oil Cleanser for Combination Skin

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

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SKIN1004's Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil stands out with its star ingredient, centella asiatica from Madagascar. Perfect for combination skin, this oil effectively clears makeup and sunscreen without leaving any greasy residue. It's particularly great for purifying pores and soothing the skin, thanks to its lightweight formula. 

Other users on Amazon and beauty sites echo my thoughts, praising its ability to cleanse thoroughly while balancing oil production. It does that without disrupting the skin’s natural sebum production, making it a good pick for combination skin people on my list of best Korean cleansing oils.

Quick Tip:

Massage it gently onto dry skin for a minute before adding water to transform it into a milky emulsion. This ensures the most effective cleanse.

Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, bergamot fruit oil, and Centella asiatica

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 6.76 oz

10

Best Korean Cleanser for Oily Skin

Innisfree Green Tea Hydrating Cleansing Oil

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The Innisfree Green Tea Hydrating Cleansing Oil quickly became a favorite in my house — even my boyfriend can't resist swiping it! Infused with their iconic Beauty Green Tea Extract and amino acids, this oil is a champion at dissolving makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based impurities without stripping the skin. 

The formula includes a harmonious blend of five botanical oils, such as plant extracts and jojoba, which leave no residue behind and prepare the skin well for further skincare. It's gentle in formulation, leaving the skin refreshed and nourished, making it a good Korean cleansing oil for all skin types!

Key Ingredients: Green tea, jojoba oil, and amino acids

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 5.07 oz

11

HARUHARU Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil

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Encased in a chic ombre bottle, the HARUHARU Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil is a daily delight for the skin. This unscented, moisturizing oil combines 100% natural oils with just nine essential ingredients, offering a gentle yet deep cleansing experience that doesn’t irritate eyes or skin. It effectively removes dirt and makeup, leaving the skin clean and hydrated, without any greasy residue. 

Ideal for those with normal to dry skin types, it enhances skin moisture without causing breakouts. This oil is a solid choice for anyone looking for a straightforward, effective cleansing oil that delivers on its promises.

Key Ingredients: Black rice bran oil, jojoba seed oil, macadamia seed oil, olive oil, sunflower seed oil

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 5.1 oz

12

TONYMOLY Wonder Apricot Deep Cleansing Oil

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With TONYMOLY’s cleansing oil on your side, you are in for a wild ride to banish those raccoon eyes for good! This powerhouse effortlessly tackles heavy, long-lasting makeup, cleansing away everything from stubborn mascara to foundation. Enriched with apricot seed oil, it dives deep into pores to extract impurities, while a blend of pomegranate seed, jojoba seed, macadamia, and meadowfoam seed oils leaves your skin feeling nourished and refreshingly clean. 

The fresh apricot scent also surrounds you after the use. Ideal for nightly use, this fruity formula aims to clean the tired skin and almost liven it up, making it a delightful addition to your end-of-day skincare ritual. 

Key Ingredients: Apricot seed oil, pomegranate seed oil, jojoba seed oil, macadamia seed oil, and meadowfoam seed oil 

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 7.9 oz

13

CELEFIT Double Effect Cleanser Oil to Foam

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Last but not least, the CELEFIT Double Effect Cleanser Oil is a real lifesaver for anyone with dry, sensitive skin. It's incredibly effective at removing stubborn, waterproof makeup — honestly, it does so "effortlessly." I consider it a "must-have" for makeup wearers who tend to go all they from concealers to setting powder routine. This cleanser cleverly shifts from oil to a rich foam upon contact with water, making your cleansing routine feel like a mini spa session. 

It's packed with nourishing oils like baobab, macadamia, camellia, and argan, leaving your skin not just clean, but also fresh and hydrated. A perfect pick for travelers and women who are new to the skincare game!

Key Ingredients: Baobab tree, macadamia seed, camellia seed, argan kernel, Asian palm fruit, meadowfoam, and sweet almond oil

Cruelty-free: Yes

Size: 1.05 oz

Having seen my above-mentioned product reviews, let’s head on to the following buying guide for a much-informed decision on understanding skin types and what you should get for a better skincare regimen.

Selecting the perfect Korean cleansing oil is all about finding the one that suits your skin type, contains nourishing ingredients, has a texture you love, and effectively removes all impurities without being harsh. Here are some pointers to try to keep in mind when choosing a cleansing oil from Korean brands.

• Skin Type: Look for a cleansing oil that is suitable for your skin type, whether it's oily, dry,  combination, or sensitive. Selecting the right Korean cleansing oil for your skin type is crucial for maximizing benefits. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for lightweight oils with ingredients like tea tree or grapeseed oil that balance sebum levels without clogging pores. For dry skin, richer oils enriched with nourishing ingredients like jojoba or olive oil can help hydrate and restore the skin barrier. 

Sensitive skin types should opt for fragrance-free formulas with soothing components like Centella asiatica. Always patch-test a new oil to ensure compatibility, and consider reviews and ingredient lists to make a well-informed choice that suits your skin’s unique needs.

• Ingredients: When choosing a Korean cleansing oil, prioritize formulations with skin-friendly ingredients. Look for oils enriched with antioxidants like green tea and vitamin E for protection against environmental damage. Hydrating components such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides are essential for maintaining moisture. 

For calming effects, seek out centella asiatica or chamomile. If you're tackling acne or oiliness, betaine salicylate or willow bark extract can offer gentle exfoliation. These ingredients enhance the cleansing experience, ensuring your skin reaps the full benefits of Korean skincare innovations.

• Texture: Consider the texture of the cleansing oil — whether you prefer a lightweight formula or a rich, emollient one. The texture of a Korean cleansing oil should feel silky and luxurious, not too thick or sticky. Ideally, it should glide effortlessly across your skin, like Banila Co Clean It Zero, which transforms into a soft, milky emulsion that rinses clean. 

Another great example is the Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil, known for its light, fluid texture that doesn’t leave a greasy residue. These oils ensure your skin feels clean, refreshed, and hydrated, perfectly prepped for the next steps in your skincare routine.

• Effectiveness: When selecting a Korean cleansing oil, consider additional benefits tailored to your skin's needs. For anti-aging, look for oils with retinol or peptides. If brightening is your goal, seek options containing vitamin C or niacinamide. Those with sensitive skin might prefer oils with minimal ingredients and calming extracts like aloe vera. 

Lastly, always check for non-comedogenic labels if you're prone to breakouts. These specifics can significantly enhance your skincare routine's effectiveness and personalization.

All these things make one Korean cleansing oil ideal for you, so keep a close eye on the labels and skin needs to know what you need best.

Korean cleansing oils offer a deep cleanse, hydrate the skin, help balance oil production, and are gentle and soothing, making them perfect for all skin types.

• Deep Cleansing: Cleansing oils effectively remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities from the skin, providing a thorough cleanse. Some products may even help remove dead skin cells. 

• Hydration: Korean cleansing oils leave the skin hydrated and nourished after cleansing, making its texture soft and supple.

• Balancing: Some cleansing oils help balance the skin's oil production, making them suitable for all skin types.

• Gentleness: These oils are generally gentle cleansers, which makes them ideal for those with acne-prone and sensitive skin.

So, know that double cleansing with your cleansing oil can also help with removing gunk from your skin while also clearing your skin every day!

1. Begin with dry hands and a dry face to massage in the oil gently.

2. Emulsify the oil with water to create a milky texture for easy rinsing.

3. Use circular motions to massage the oil, promoting circulation and thorough cleansing.

4. Follow up with a water-based cleanser for a complete double-cleansing routine.

Incorporate these tips into your skincare regimen to unlock the full potential of Korean cleansing oils and achieve that radiant, flawless complexion you've been dreaming of.