7 Best Korean Toner Pads That Hydrate, Soothe, and Prep Skin
Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
The best Korean toner pads are a mainstay in Korean skin-care routines because, as Charlotte Cho, co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City, explains, “they have always been treated as a hydrating prep step—like the bridge between cleansing and the rest of your routine.”
Forget the harsh, astringent wipes you may associate with Western toners—Korean toner pads are much gentler and feel more like a quick, soothing facial step. “They’re designed to calm, prep, and give you that immediate skin refresh,” says Cho. You can swipe one on after cleansing, or place a few pads on your cheeks and forehead for five minutes as a mini-mask moment.
Our Top Korean Toner Pads
- Best Overall: Biodance Collagen Gel Toner Pads, $26
- Best for Dry Skin: Hanyul Artemisia Soothing Toner Pads, $26
- Best for Oily Skin: Medicube Zero Pore Pad, $31
- Best for Active Breakouts: Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pad, $24
- Best for Dullness: Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad, $18
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Anua PDRN 100 Hyaluronic Acid Glow Pad, $22
- Best for Combination Skin: Torriden Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Toner Pads, $26
Compared to liquid toners, pads also make the whole step faster and more convenient: no cotton rounds to hunt down, no spills, and way more control over where the product goes. Many are double-sided, with a lightly textured side for gentle exfoliation and a smooth side for hydration—so you’re toning, lightly exfoliating, and refreshing skin in one pass. They’re also inherently more portable, which explains why they’re a favorite for gym bags, travel, and busy mornings.
Many formulas highlight K-beauty staples like Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) to soothe redness, mugwort (artemisia) to calm reactive skin, or collagen to boost bounce and hydration. While they don’t replace targeted serums or moisturizers, they can combine toning, light exfoliation, and hydration into one easy step—one of those low-effort, glass-skin tricks that delivers real glow, fast.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What makes Korean toner pads different from Western toner pads?
- What ingredients are common in Korean toner pads?
- Do Korean toner pads replace multiple steps?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Biodance Collagen Gel Toner Pads
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Biodance
Collagen Gel Toner Pads
Amazon
Soko Glam
Sephora
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Biodance Cera-nol Gel Toner Pads
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: If you haven’t had a chance to try Biodance’s viral overnight collagen masks yet, these toner pads offer a preview of the glow they’re known for. In Korea, toner pads are often used as mini mask treatments. “If you’re short on time or too tired for an overnight mask, this is the perfect morning rescue,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. She points to the innovative gel fabric and low-molecular-weight collagen, which is broken down into smaller fragments to hydrate more effectively, feel lighter on the skin, and help create a plumper, smoother look with minimal irritation. Hyaluronic acid helps flood skin with hydration, while galactomyces (a byproduct of yeast fermentation originally discover in sake breweing) smooths texture for a clearer, more even look. While they work well for all skin types, “they’re especially popular for skin that feels dry, dull, or less bouncy,” says Cho.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“These are so so so so soothing—some of the most cooling, most drenched toner pads I've ever put on my face. One casual swipe of this makes my skin look 10 times dewier, not even joking. Because they're so potent, I make sure to bring all of the hydrating, plumping goodness down to my neck.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, collagen, galactomyces
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Number of pads: 60
Best for Dry Skin: Hanyul Artemisia Soothing Toner Pads
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Hanyul
Artemisia Soothing Toner Pads
Amazon
Soko Glam
Sephora
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Hanyul Artemisia Soothing Toner Pads
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: Hanyul’s Artemisia Soothing Toner Pads are the kind you should “reach for when your skin is feeling reactive or easily irritated,” says Cho. Each pad is soaked in a calming essence built around the brand’s proprietary Artemisia-Cica blend—a K-beauty-favorite pairing of artemisia (mugwort) and Centella asiatica. “Artemisia is a traditional ingredient in Korean skin care, and has a calming quality that makes your skin feel hydrated and soothed,” she says. Centella asiatica brings relief by helping calm inflammation and support the skin barrier, which is especially important when skin feels sensitized or stressed.
Artemisia leaf water further enhances comfort, while panthenol (vitamin B5) supports the skin barrier, and hyaluronic acid delivers lightweight hydration. The formula also includes Lactobacillus ferment, a fermented ingredient commonly used in Korean skin care to improve absorption, so it helps your toner work more effectively.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“My already-dry skin has been a serious drama queen lately thanks to my tretinoin prescription—think peeling and redness. These pads have a subtle grip to them, so they don’t slip and slide around your face, and they’re saturated without being so drenched that you can’t actually hold onto them (a small but important detail). After swiping one on, my skin felt noticeably softer and comforted—less tight and nicely hydrating for the dry patches on my cheeks.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Artemisia-Cica (artemisia leaf extract and Centella asiatica), panthenol, hyaluronic acid, artemisia water, Lactobacillus ferment
- Fragrance-free: no
- Number of pads: 60
Best for Oily Skin: Medicube Zero Pore Pad
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Medicube
Zero Pore Pad
Amazon
Yesstyle
Ulta Beauty
Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman applying the Medicube Zero Pore Pads
Katie Gunderman
Why it's worth it: If you have oily skin, you already know there’s a big difference between a healthy glow and greasy-looking shine. When skin starts feeling slick or congested, Medicube’s Zero Pore Pads help restore balance. These toner pads are soaked in a clarifying blend that gently exfoliates dead skin cells, clears excess sebum, and helps keep pores from appearing clogged. Salicylic acid works inside pores to break up oil and buildup, while lactic acid smooths uneven texture caused by lingering congestion. Centella asiatica, panthenol, and allantoin help keep skin calm and comfortable, so you get clarity without a stripped or tight feeling.
Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman
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“The Medicube Zero Pore Toner Pads are always the first step. They refresh my face and prep it for the rest of my skincare or makeup routine. They always leave my skin feeling clean and hydrated and I love how easy they are to pop on.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager
More to know
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- Key ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, Centella asiatica, panthenol, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Number of pads: 70
Best for Active Breakouts: Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pad
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Mediheal
Madecassoside Blemish Pad
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Soko Glam
Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pad
Sarah Felbin
Why it's worth it: Sometimes you can feel a blemish coming and head it off with the right products. Other times, it’s already angrily announced itself—and that’s when Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pads help shorten its unwanted stay. “These are great for acne-prone skin, especially if you’re dealing with active breakouts or post-breakout redness,” says Cho. Each pad is soaked in a calming, barrier-first formula built around cica, “one of the most iconic calming ingredients in K-beauty,” Cho notes; she also likes that the pads are easy to use, not harsh, and help skin look clearer and more balanced over time. You’ll find whole-plant Centella asiatica extract to help calm visible redness, plus leaf and root extracts that deliver antioxidant and barrier-supporting benefits. Madecassoside, a key compound derived from cica, helps reduce irritation as breakouts heal. Niacinamide adds a brightening boost that helps fade lingering post-breakout marks, leaving skin clearer and skin tone more even.
Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
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“I have very sensitive, oily skin that can break out if I look at it wrong. Add to that the dozens of new beauty products I'm testing each week, and I'm almost always dealing with some stubborn blackheads, whiteheads, or both. When I first notice signs of a breakout, I always make sure to grab these pads. The pad's material is very thin and soft (not scratchy like some other pads I've tried, which can irritate my skin even more). There's a lot of product in each box of pads, so they're always fully saturated, even weeks after I've bought them. And I love that each box comes with a pair of clear plastic tweezers hidden underneath the lid, so I can quickly and easily grab a pad without having to stick my fingers inside. The pads apply a thin layer of a clear, watery product that dries quickly and layers easily under the rest of my skin care and makeup. And after a few uses, my skin looks calmer and clearer. These have been a medicine cabinet must-have for me since I first tried them. Madecassoside is the real deal!” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: niacinamide, glycerin, Centella asiatica
- Fragrance-free: rosemary and mango scent; no synthetic fragrance
- Number of pads: 100
Best for Dullness: Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad
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Some by Mi
AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Soko Glam
Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad
Sarah Hoffmann
Why it's worth it: Some By Mi comes from the phrase “something by a miracle,” and with the way their formulas revive dull skin, we can believe it. Unlike some other exfoliating toner pads, their AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pads are designed for daily use, thanks to their low-dose blend of acids that gently smooth and brighten without overwhelming skin. Citric acid (AHA) gently lifts away dull, dead skin cells on the surface, while willow bark water—naturally rich in salicin, which the skin can convert into salicylic acid–like compounds—helps keep pores clear without the irritation of traditional BHAs. PHA (lactobionic acid) adds an extra layer of mild exfoliation while helping skin retain moisture. Calming staples like Centella asiatica, madecassoside, artemisia, and tea tree help prevent irritation while these pads help shed dull, dead cells for a clearer look.
Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann
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“I treat these toner pads like a first aid kit for my skin. Whenever I'm inconsistent about skin care, the first place the neglect starts to show is around my nose and chin, where I'm prone to clogged pores. Whenever I notice this kind of congestion, a day or two of using these exfoliating pads clears that right up. My skin is pretty sensitive, so I appreciate how these toner pads are perfectly dosed with the right amount of product, so I don't need to stress about over-exfoliating. The first time I used these after a week of not-so-great skin, I woke up the next day and genuinely thought, ’Well, that made my skin perfect.'" —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: citric acid, betaine salicylate, lactobionic acid, Centella asiatica, madecassoside
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Number of pads: 70
Best for Sensitive Skin: Anua PDRN 100 Hyaluronic Acid Glow Pad
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Anua
PDRN 100 Hyaluronic Acid Glow Pad
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Olive Young
Lee applying the Anua PDRN 100 Hyaluronic Acid Glow Pad
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: It’s about time more toner pads started incorporating PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), an ingredient long prized in skin-repair treatments. Traditionally derived from salmon DNA and known for supporting tissue regeneration and cell renewal, Anua PDRN 100 Hyaluronic Acid Glow Pads use a plant-based form that’s especially gentle for sensitive skin. The oversized pads make it easy to cover most of your face, turning a quick step into a barrier-repairing, mini-mask moment. While PDRN supports skin recovery, these pads also feature multiple forms of hyaluronic acid to provide hydration and cushion the skin. Calming botanicals like aloe, turmeric, and holy basil round things out, keeping skin comfortable and soothed.
Tester feedback from Lee
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“Okay, fair warning: These pads are ultra drenched—like, dripping with essence. When I tried swiping one across my face, the pad kept rolling up on itself, so I pivoted and started using them as mini sheet masks instead (pressing them onto my cheeks and forehead for a few minutes). The PDRN and hyaluronic acid combo delivers crazy hydration, and my skin looked extremely glassy afterward. I’ve been peeling from a prescription cream for my melasma, and these have been such a helpful counterbalance—plumping things back up and taking the edge off that tight, flaky feeling.” —Lee, contirbuting commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: plant-based PDRN, hyaluronic acid, aloe, turmeric, holy basil
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Number of pads: 60
Best for Combination Skin: Torriden Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Toner Pads
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Torriden
Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Toner Pads
Amazon
Sephora
Han using the Torriden Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Toner Pads
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: Combination skin typically means oilier, congestion-prone areas (usually the T-zone) paired with drier or tighter patches elsewhere—and those needs can shift by the day. But having combo skin doesn’t mean you need different products for different parts of your face. Torriden’s Dive In 5D Hyaluronic Acid Toner Pads meet your skin where it is. The “5D hyaluronic acid” refers to a blend of five forms of hyaluronic acid with varying molecular sizes, allowing hydration to reach multiple layers of the skin rather than sitting on the surface. Dry areas feel cushioned without overwhelming oilier zones. For balance, gluconolactone (a gentle PHA) and willow bark extract lightly exfoliate to keep pores clear, while witch hazel and tea tree help manage shine. Barrier-supporting ceramides, beta-glucan, and humectants round things out, leaving skin hydrated, clear, and balanced all over.
Tester feedback from Han
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“I don't use cleanser in the mornings (a quick rinse is as far as I go!) but sometimes my skin could use a refresher, which is where these Torriden pads come in. As their name suggests—and just like the Dive In serum and cream I love so much—these toner pads are intensely hydrating, thanks to five types of hyaluronic acid, and they sweep away any debris that might've accumulated during the night. (Did I mention they're so nicely cooling, too? These + my morning coffee = the ideal one-two wake-up punch.) One nice advantage these pads have over others I've tried is their shape: While many toner pads are straight-up circles, Torriden's has a curved edge that rest sperfectly underneath my eyes for when I want to leave my toner pads on for five minutes as a sheet mask stand-in. My skin always looks glowier and brighter, no matter how dead I feel inside. (I've long accepted I'm not a morning person.)” —Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 5 types of hyaluronic acid, PHA, witch hazel, tea tree, ceramides, beta-glucan
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Number of pads: 80
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Korean toner pads different from Western toner pads?
Korean skin-care routines in general tend to be much more treatment-focused than their Western counterparts. “Korean toner pads are more like essence-soaked pads, while Western toner pads are often astringent-based,” says Marie Jhin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in San Carlos, California. Instead of relying on strong acids or alcohol for oil control, Korean formulas prioritize hydration, soothing, and gentle brightening. “Think of Korean toner pads as a nourishing bridge between cleansing and treatment,” Dr. Jhin adds, “not just an exfoliating step.” That’s why they’re often designed to be left on as mini masks—supporting the skin barrier while delivering active ingredients, rather than stripping skin in the name of clarity.
What ingredients are common in Korean toner pads?
Korean toner pads are known for their skin-friendly, barrier-first ingredient lists. “You’ll often see calming and barrier-supporting ingredients like galactomyces, bifida ferment, and cica,” says Dr. Jhin, along with nourishing staples such as propolis, snail mucin, and botanicals like heartleaf, mugwort, and rice. To round things out, many formulas include multitaskers like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid for hydration and brightening, plus gentler exfoliants—think PHA or low-dose AHA/BHA blends, so skin gets the benefits of exfoliation without the irritation.
Do Korean toner pads replace multiple steps?
While Korean toner pads don’t completely replace targeted serums, ampoules, or moisturizers, they do help streamline your routine, especially if you’re juggling multiple skin concerns. “They combine toning, light exfoliation, and essence into one step,” says Dr. Jhin, which can reduce a longer, multi-step routine into just a few essentials. Think of them as a smart shortcut: they prep skin, deliver active ingredients, and create a smoother base so the rest of your skin care works better—leaving skin looking more balanced, refreshed, and dewy without skipping the steps that really matter.
Meet the experts
- Charlotte Cho, co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City
- Marie Jhin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of Premier Dermatology, adjunct clinical instructor at Stanford University, and author of Asian Beauty Secrets and K-Beauty Secrets based in San Carlos, California
- Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
For our review of the best korean toner pads, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and professional makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product’s performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
9 Best Korean Cleansing Oils for a Hydrating, Makeup-Melting Cleanse
Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
When we talk about the best Korean cleansing oils, we’re talking about the products that basically redefined what a good first cleanse should feel like. These formulas are lightweight, silky, and ridiculously good at melting off makeup, sunscreen, and grime—without leaving skin tight or greasy.
What makes these cleansing oils distinctly Korean? K-beauty cleansing oils usually rely on plant-derived oils and streamlined ingredient lists, so they feel gentle even if you’re wearing waterproof mascara or have sensitive or acne-prone skin. “They tend to have a lighter consistency and fewer ingredients,” which makes them easier on the skin than some heavier Western formulas, says Justine H. Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Westlake Village, CA. And when you follow them with a water-based cleanser (the classic double-cleanse), your pores get a deeper, more satisfying clean.
Our Top Korean Cleansing Oils
- Best Overall: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil, $18
- Best for Oily Skin: Knours 2-in-1 Oil-to-Foam Non-Stripping Facial Cleanser, $17
- Best for Makeup Removal: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil, $16
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil, $20
- Best for Dry Skin: Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil, $40
- Best for Barrier Repair: Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil, $26
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Purito From Green Cleansing Oil, $17
- Best for Large Pores: Hanskin Pore Cleansing Oil BHA, $27
- Best for Mature Skin: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil, $20
Whether you like fragrance-free options, formulas that target blackheads, or oils that leave your skin feeling extra nourished, Korean cleansing oils are one of those rare categories where almost everyone finds a favorite—and beauty editors, derms, and even TikTok, all agree.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- How do I use cleansing oils?
- What makes Korean cleansing oils different?
- Why is double cleansing important in Korean skincare?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Save to wishlist
Ma:nyo
Pure Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Lily Wohlner
Why it’s worth it: Don’t just take our word for it—we’re pretty sure you know one of the 20 million (and more) people worldwide who’ve grabbed a bottle of Ma:nyo's Pure Cleansing Oil. This best seller uses 14 plant-derived oils to cleanse without clogging pores, transforming into a milky wash that dissolves makeup and restores your skin’s natural moisture and pH balance. It’s suitable for all skin types (yes, even acne-prone). “Its tea tree and melaleuca oils help combat oily skin and bacterial overgrowth, making it great for people with blackheads and whiteheads,” says Dr. Justine Park. With nourishing argan, moisture-replenishing jojoba, and vitamin E–rich olive oil, it’s no wonder this cleanser has a global fan base.
Wohlner before applying the Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Lily Wohlner
Wohlner after applying the Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil
Lily Wohlner
Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner
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“By the time I’m ready to take off my makeup, I’ve usually had it on all day—so the moment I walk through the door, it needs to come off fast and easily. This cleansing oil melts off my makeup in just a few swipes without irritating my acne-prone skin, and although it’s fragrance-free, the natural scent from the oils gives off a subtle, spa-like vibe that makes for the perfect way to unwind after a long day out and about.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: argan kernel oil, jojoba seed oil, olive oil, tea tree oil
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Oily Skin: Knours 2-in-1 Oil-to-Foam Non-Stripping Facial Cleanser
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Knours
2-in-1 Oil-to-Foam Non-Stripping Facial Cleanser
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Soko Glam
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Knours 2-in-1 Oil-to-Foam Non-Stripping Facial Cleanser
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: If you have oily skin, you know the drill: Cleanse too gently and you’re shiny again by noon; go in too aggressively and your skin panics—producing even more oil to compensate. Knours’s 2-in-1 Oil-to-Foam Cleanser is especially ideal for oilier types because it helps whisk away excess sebum without triggering that rebound effect. It starts as a lightweight oil that melts away makeup and excess sebum, then transforms into a soft foam once you add water—so you get the benefits of a double cleanse in a single step. Gentle surfactants cleanse without stripping, while olive, jojoba, apricot, and broccoli seed oils help replenish moisture where skin needs it most. “This cleansing oil effortlessly dissolves makeup and excess sebum while feeling luxuriously smooth,” says Charlotte Cho, co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City. Glycerin and honey extract add a final boost of hydration, leaving skin balanced and comfortable.
Lee before applying the Knours 2-in-1 Oil-to-Foam Non-Stripping Facial Cleanser
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Knours 2-in-1 Oil-to-Foam Non-Stripping Facial Cleanser
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“I don’t usually classify my skin as combination or oily, but on days when I’ve been wearing a ton of makeup or leave the gym feeling shiny and slick, I need something that really clears the excess oil off my T-zone in particular. This cleanser feels incredibly gentle as it removes even my waterproof makeup, and the foam feels like it whisks everything away without irritating my sensitive skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: olive, jojoba, apricot, and broccoli seed oils, glycerin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Makeup Removal: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil
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Haruharu Wonder
Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Nordstrom
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil
Sarah Han
Why it’s worth it: In Korean culture, rice is deeply tied to comfort, health, prosperity, and home, so when a brand puts it front and center in your skin care, you know it’s intentional. The fermented black rice in Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil delivers a surge of antioxidants, minerals, and proteins that help keep skin elastic and resilient from step one. Alongside rice bran extract, the formula blends olive oil (to whisk away makeup and excess sebum), sunflower seed oil (to soothe and moisturize), macadamia seed oil (to strengthen your barrier), jojoba seed oil (to balance and refine), and tocopherol for an extra antioxidant boost. There’s not much else in the formula, and that’s exactly why TikTok is obsessed with its short, sweet, no-fluff ingredient list.
Han before applying the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“The key characteristic of a good cleansing oil? A super silky formula that breaks down your toughest makeup with tugging—especially around the eyes—and washes away without an ounce of residue. Oh, and it doesn't hurt when they're fragrance-free for my sensitive girlies. The Haruharu Black Rice Moisture Cleansing Oil is one of my top recs for cleansing oils for these reasons, and because it just… delivers. There's nothing complicated about it, which is exactly what I need as I'm beginning my loaded nighttime skin-care routine. It melts away shimmer eye shadow, long-lasting gel liners, and every type of mascara in 10 seconds. It's a must even on my no-makeup, sunscreen-only days, too. A mainstay, as they say.” —Sarah Han, commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: rice bran extract, olive oil, sunflower seed oil, macadamia seed oil, jojoba seed oil
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
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Skin1004
Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
Deanna Pai
Why it's worth it: If the makeup-melting, calming ability of Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil feels almost heaven-sent, it tracks—“1004” is pronounced cheon-sa, meaning “angel,” in Korean. The entire brand centers its formulas around Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) sourced specifically from Madagascar, where the plant grows with exceptional purity and potency thanks to the island’s untouched environment. This cleansing oil’s featherlight texture works beautifully for all skin types, including our tester with oily, acne-prone skin and Joyce Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, who calls it “a new favorite for my sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. The cica is extremely soothing, and the formula has a super-lightweight texture.” Staying true to Skin1004’s pared-back formulas, it keeps things streamlined with just four key oils: bergamot, sunflower seed, olive fruit, and jojoba seed.
Pai before applying the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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"I don't want to be dramatic, but this has capital-T transformed by cleansing routine. I got it in a set paired with the brand's Cleansing Ampoule Foam, but this is a non-negotiable first step for melting all of my makeup off before I go in with the lather. It has a generous slip, little to no scent, and a lightweight texture that's easy to emulsify and rinse. My only complaint is that I will need a jumbo size made." —Deanna Pai, Allure contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, bergamot, sunflower seed, olive fruit, and jojoba seed oils
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil
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Sulwhasoo
Gentle Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Nordstrom
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: You may know Sulwhasoo for its 500-hour ginseng creams and tech-packed serums, but don’t sleep on this quieter overachiever. The Gentle Cleansing Oil, a 2024 Best of Beauty winner, happens to be waterproof makeup’s worst enemy, melting through long-wear formulas without drying out skin. Its secret isn’t ginseng this time, but a cushiony blend powered by the brand’s Hydra Capture Complex, which uses four proprietary herbal extracts to help skin stay hydrated as you cleanse. It also features “coconut oils to give a luxurious texture and help remove makeup,” says Christina Han, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Vancouver. Mulberry leaf and mountain yam extracts soften and nourish, while the silky oil-to-milk texture leaves skin feeling clean but not tight. While it’s on the pricier side for a cleanser, one pump does more heavy lifting than most double-cleanse duos combined.
Lee before applying the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
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“I’m pretty heavy-handed with waterproof eye products (my go-to liner is basically budgeproof), so finding a makeup remover that melts down every last bit of mascara and liquid liner in seconds is wildly satisfying. Even better, it rinses off feeling completely hydrating—and while it doesn’t claim any brightening benefits, my skin somehow always looks a little glowier afterward.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Hydra Capture Complex, mulberry leaf extract, mountain yam extract, coconut oil
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Barrier Repair: Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil
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Round Lab
1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Han applying the Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil
Sarah Han
Why it’s worth it: The 1025 Dokdo line gets its name from the waters around the Ulleungdo and Dokdo islets in the East Sea—an area known for mineral-rich deep-sea water, which Round Lab uses to create some of its calmest, most balancing formulas. Their Dokdo Cleansing Oil pairs that soothing water with plant-derived oils like meadowfoam, grape seed, avocado, evening primrose, and macadamia to melt makeup without leaving skin tight or greasy. It’s especially great for sensitive or dry skin thanks to barrier-loving ingredients like allantoin, and panthenol. “The addition of hyaluronic acid and ceramides helps soothe dry, sensitive skin while adding hydration as it cleanses,” says Dr. Justine Park.
Han before applying the Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil
Han after applying the Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil
Tester feedback from Han
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“Round Lab's standout products, for me, come from the 1025 Dokdo line, which uses Ulleungdo deep-sea water as its star ingredient. That's what gives the cleansing oil a slightly refreshing feeling I don't find with other oils I've used. (Apparently this sea water is extracted 5,000 feet below sea level and stays at a cool two degrees Celcius all year round, so this checks out!) It gets rid of my eye makeup—I love my waterproof, lifeproof gel liners—in a blink of an eye, so it passes my main criteria with flying colors. It leaves my skin feeling baby-soft post-rinse, too. This is pretty niche but I love how much the pump dispenses at once because of how high it sits. I go heavy on cleansing oil in general, especially when I'm wearing makeup, so this little design detail is appreciated!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: meadowfoam seed oil, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
More Korean cleansing oils we love
Best for Sensitive Skin: Purito From Green Cleansing Oil
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Purito
From Green Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Nordstrom
Olive Young
Why it’s worth it: Just because Korean skin care popularized the famous 10-step glass-skin routine doesn’t mean they don't know the power of simplicity. Purito’s From Green Cleansing Oil is an ultra-minimalist formula that clocks in at just 10 ingredients, making it a standout for sensitive or easily reactive skin. Instead of essential oils—which are aromatic extracts often added for scent and can be irritating—“the formula relies on gentle fatty oils like olive, sunflower seed, jojoba, sweet almond, and grape seed” to dissolve makeup and sunscreen while helping replenish the skin barrier, says Dr. Han. With no fragrance or unnecessary extras, reactive skin is left soothed and calm.
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- Key ingredients: olive, sunflower seed, jojoba, sweet almond, and grape seed oils
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Large Pores: Hanskin Pore Cleansing Oil BHA
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Hanskin
Pore Cleansing Oil BHA
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Soko Glam
Why it’s worth it: It’s relatively rare to see beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) take center stage in Korean beauty—most formulas lean on gentler polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), ferments, and enzymes to support cell turnover—but Hanskin is one of the exceptions, and it does so with sensitive skin in mind. The Pore Cleansing Oil BHA features betaine salicylate, a milder, slower-acting cousin of salicylic acid that helps loosen pore buildup with significantly less irritation, making it suitable for daily use. Lightweight, non-comedogenic emollients like jojoba oil dissolve makeup and excess sebum without clogging pores, while glycerin helps prevent that tight, stripped feeling after rinsing. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, recommends this option for a deeper clean that targets congestion while keeping skin balanced and comfortable.
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- Key ingredients: betaine salicylate, jojoba oil, glycerin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Mature Skin: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil
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Beauty of Joseon
Ginseng Cleansing Oil
Amazon
Sephora
Why it’s worth it: Beauty of Joseon’s Ginseng Cleansing Oil takes the brand’s hanbang roots (traditional Korean herbal medicine) and turns them into a cleansing step that feels practically therapeutic for mature skin. The stars are “glycine soja (soybean) oil, which melts makeup while giving mature skin nourishing omegas, as well as ginseng seed oil for natural antioxidant power,” says Dr. Justine Park. With olive, camellia, coconut, and black cumin oils in the blend, this silky formula transforms from an oil into a soft foam cleanser, keeping skin supple and hydrated rather than tight. It’s the kind of gentle face wash that leaves mature, often-dry skin feeling soft, calm, and cared for.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: soybean oil, ginseng seed oil, olive oil, coconut oil
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use cleansing oils?
First, skip the water. “Apply cleansing oil to dry skin and massage into the skin to dissolve dirt, grime, oil, sunscreen, makeup, etc.,” says Dr. Justine Park. Working it in dry allows the oils to properly break everything down. Once it’s had a moment to do its job, “rinse with warm water or use a warm wet washcloth to wipe away and then rinse with warm water,” she says. Only after that step should your skin be wet.
What makes Korean cleansing oils different?
What makes these cleansing oils distinctly Korean comes down to texture, simplicity, and the types of oils used. In general, Korean beauty products, especially cleansing products, skew lighter and more streamlined, favoring plant-based oils over the denser, synthetic formulas to nourish your skin barrier.
Why is double cleansing important in Korean skincare?
“Double cleansing ensures thorough and effective cleansing as a two-step process to allow the removal of impurities followed by the actual cleansing of the skin,” says Dr. Justine Park. The first step—an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm—breaks down sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum, while the second step—a water-based cleanser—removes leftover residue, sweat, and impurities. Together, these K-beauty skin-care products leave your complexion clearer, smoother, and better prepped for the rest of your routine.
Meet the experts
- Christina Han, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at Xyon based in Vancouver
- Joyce Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Refinery based in Washington
- Justine H. Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of the Skin & Beauty Center based in Westlake Village, CA
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best Korean cleansing oils, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
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A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.