Looking for the best Korean gel cleanser? Here are detailed reviews of Korean cleansers that are gentle on your skin and yet strong enough to get rid of impurities.
Gel cleansers are great for your oily and acne prone skin as they are great for deep cleansing and clearing out pores. Korean gel cleansers are great for getting rid of excess oil and bacteria that cause acne.
Depending on the ingredients in the formula, some Korean cleansers are great for sensitive skin as well.
Best Korean Gel Cleansers — Quick Summary
| Best Korean Gel Cleansers | Best for |
| Innisfree Jeju bija Anti Trouble Cleansing Gel | Acne prone skin |
| COSRX Low pH Morning Gel Cleanser | Sensitive Skin |
| Sioris Gel Cleanser | Dry, Acne prone Skin |
| PURITO Defence Barrier Gel Cleanser | Removing Makeup |
| Belif Aqua Jelly Cleanser | Sensitive skin |
| Peach and Lily Gel Cleanser | Dry, Sensitive skin |
| HUXLEY Moisturising Gel Cleanser | Combination Skin |
To achieve flawless skin, you need to clean out the whole day off your face before you go to bed. Or start the day out by cleansing your face before you lay the makeup on.
A cleanser does this work for you better than any other product. So what better category to look at than the Korean skincare list.
Read on to find out the best Korean gel cleansers.
Table of Contents
Top Korean Gel Cleanser 2023
How To Choose the Best Korean Gel Cleanser
When selecting the best Korean gel cleanser for your skin, consider the following factors to make an informed choice:
- Skin Type: Determine your skin type (e.g., oily, dry, combination, sensitive) as it will guide you towards the appropriate gel cleanser. For oily skin, look for cleansers with oil-controlling or mattifying properties. Dry skin may benefit from hydrating or moisturizing gel cleansers. Combination skin may require a balanced formula.
- Skin Concerns: Identify specific skin concerns you want to address, such as acne, sensitivity, aging, or hyperpigmentation. Look for gel cleansers that target these concerns, such as those containing salicylic acid for acne-prone skin or soothing ingredients like aloe vera for sensitive skin.
- Formulation: Consider the formulation of the gel cleanser. Look for key ingredients that align with your skin’s needs. For example, gel cleansers with hyaluronic acid provide hydration, while those with tea tree oil can be beneficial for acne-prone skin. Avoid harsh ingredients like sulfates if you have sensitive skin.
- pH Balance: Look for gel cleansers with a balanced pH level (around 5.5) to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Cleansers with an appropriate pH help to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils and maintain its optimal condition.
- Texture and Feel: Test the texture and feel of the gel cleanser. It should be lightweight, easy to spread, and create a comfortable cleansing experience. Some may prefer a gel cleanser that lathers, while others may prefer a non-foaming option.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: Be mindful of any known allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. Check the product’s ingredient list for potential irritants and choose a gel cleanser that is free from any ingredients you may be allergic or sensitive to.
Remember to conduct a patch test before using a new gel cleanser on your entire face to ensure compatibility and minimize the risk of adverse reactions. It’s also helpful to read reviews from other users with similar skin types or concerns to gather insights and find recommendations.
COSRX Low pH Morning Gel Cleanser
Best Korean Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
If you are looking for a cleanser to get your mornings started by nourishing your skin and cleansing the pores for a fresh face.
Unlike Innisfree, this package does not come big. The tube is medium sized and does not last for a long time. The pH level of this cleanser is higher than the previous cleanser that we listed out which means no blemishes!
After testing several cleansers, I found the CosRx Low pH morning gel cleanser to be the best Korean cleanser for sensitive skin. And I got a couple of friends with dry skin and oily skin to try it too. It worked pretty well on their skin as well. So it’s safe to say that this Korean cleanser is good for all skin types including sensitive skin type.
When I started using this cleanser it took about 2-3 weeks to show changes. I noticed the pigmentation in my face had noticeable reduced and my skin feels more moisturised and plump! The only thing I was disappointed about was that it only comes in 150 ml bottle which can get over pretty soon.
Key Features:
- Cleanses pores
- Mild face cleanser
- Mildly acidic pH level
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Free of parabens, and artificial fragrances
Pros:
- Doesn’t irritate the skin
- Reduces acne
- Good for sensitive skin
- Travel size pack
Cons
- Only 150ml plack available that gets over really soon
- Related: Top Korean Cleansing Foam
- Related: Best Korean Oil Cleansers
- Related: Best Korean Face Wash for Dry Skin
Sioris Gel Cleanser
Best Korean Gel Cleanser for Dry, Acne prone Skin
Sioris cleansing gel is one of the best smoothing agents that works really well for all skin types.
It is an amazing product for acne and pimple prone skin by acting gently and removing unnecessary dirt and other impurities embedded in the pores. Using 3 pumps of this Korean cleanser will brighten your face. We suggest you use this in the morning to set the tone of your skin for the entire day.
If you are someone with dry skin, I vouch for the hydration this cleansing gel provides and the best part is that it stays that way for the entire day.
I use this cleanser for a while in the morning and as a second cleanser in the evening that is after using an oil cleanser. If you have acne prone skin, the Sioris gel cleanser is great. It reduced the redness and inflammation in my skin. This is a low-foam Korean cleanser so it felt really gentle on my skin. And my felt hydrated soon after.
I was a little disappointed with the scent of this Korean cleanser. But didn’t mind it as the cleanser is made up of mostly natural ingredients and the scent was because of those natural ingredients. And also I got used to the scent after using it a few times.
Also, it doesn’t do a great job with removing makeup which is why it’s best suited as a second cleanser if you’re into double cleansing and since it’s mild and gentle on the skin, it’s the perfect choice!
For the best experience with this cleanser, I recommend you use this twice a day on a regular basis.
Key Features:
- Formulated with 61% organic essential oils including Organic Golden Jeju Pomelo Peel Extract, Houttuynia Corada Extract, Black Willow Bark Extract
- Formulated with fish mint extract
- Gets rid of impurities to reveal brighter skin
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Free of parabens, and artificial fragrances
Pros:
- Controls sebum
- Maintains pH balance
- Natural Cleanser
Cons:
- Short shelf-life
- Doesn’t have a pleasant odor
Related: Best Korean Oil Cleanser for Oily Skin
PURITO Defence Barrier Gel Cleanser
Best Korean Cleanser for Removing Makeup
When we compared this product to the previous ones on our list, we found this cleanser does not weigh too much on the skin. It is so gentle that it does not harm your skin in any way but removes impurities in the most subtle way.
When I was curating this list, I found PURITO Defense barrier cleanser to be the best Korean cleanser when it comes to removing makeup.
And though it says on the bottle to leave it for 1 – 3 minutes, I wouldn’t suggest that. In my opinion, it’s not good to keep a cleanser on your skin for that long as it can mess with the acid levels and maybe even dry your skin out. I recommend to put it on for about 30 seconds max and then rinse. This will definitely get rid of the makeup. Worked for me!
It doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients and is completely vegan. The cleanser does a fair job for aging skin as well. It can work really well with large pores and wrinkles.
It works really well for all skin types without letting it affect the natural course of your skin. Another thing with this Korean cleanser is that it removes makeup completely so much that you don’t need wipes.
Key Features:
- Lightweight formula
- Vegan
- No harmful ingredients
- Good for aging skin
- Hypoallergenic
Pros
- Effectively removes makeup
- OIl-controlling formula
- Low pH
Cons:
- Using this product too much can dry out the skin
Related: Best Korean Oil Cleanser for Combination Skin
Innisfree Jeju bija Anti Trouble Cleansing Gel
Best Korean Cleanser for Oily skin and Acne Prone Skin
Innisfree is a brand that we just cannot help hyping about because it is all about the Korean touch in beauty!
What we have noticed is that this is an excellent choice for skin that is breaking out and is sensitive. The salicylic acid present in this Korean cleanser tends to skin that is prone to acne by cooling it down.
Even though it is gel based, it is not capable of removing makeup and other products from the face.
Another thing that we have observed about this cleanser is that it is always better to use this as the second product after you have wiped your makeup off and washed your face with a gentle product.
The cleanser does not irritate the skin and is suitable for all skin types.
Key Features
- Formulated with salicylic acid
- Recommended for oily skin
Pros:
- Cools down the skin
- Gentle formula
- Doesn’t irritate the skin
Cons
- Doesn’t remove makeup and other face products
Related: Best Korean Acne Face Wash
Belif Aqua Jelly Cleanser
Best Korean Gel Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
Belif water based gel cleanser is one of the best choices you can make for sensitive skin.
It has a way of cradling your skin in the best possible way without disrupting the texture of your skin or paving way for pimples or acne.
The chickweed present in the gel cleanser allows whiteheads to be taken out without exerting too much pressure on the skin.
We have noticed that this Korean cleanser offers your skin a dewy and hydrated look for the driest if skin types.
We don’t think this one has much of an impact on oily skin.
Key Features:
- Formulated with chickweed
- Intensely hydrates the skin
- Free of parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances
Pros:
- Recyclable packaging
- Cleans the skin without drying it out
- Pleasant fresh, fruity, natural fragrance
Peach and Lily Gel Cleanser
Best Korean Gel Cleanser for Dry, Sensitive Skin
Chamomile is by far the most effective ingredient that has the ability to deal with sensitive skin.
With this 100 ml tube of cleanser all you need is 2 drops and your face is going to have enough of the product. That is the beauty of this cleanser. It does not require you to overuse it for the right impact.
For those who have dry skin, this cleanser will do the job of hydrating and giving your skin moisture.
It is an excellent choice for those who have mature skin as well by slowing down the ageing process.
Key Features
- Formulated with chamomile, cica, and camellia.
- Good for dehydrated skin
- Free of sulphates
- Soothes and calms the skin
- 5.5 pH formula
HUXLEY Moisturising Gel Cleanser
Best Korean Cleanser for Combination Skin
Here’s yet another one for dry skin!
Huxley always hits the nail on the head with the skincare products. Besides the fact that this is a Korean brand, it etches with the consumers because of how good it is.
The moisturising agents present in this cleanser are so good that it gives your skin a newer glossier texture.
It is gentle and does not cause irritation on the skin. We absolutely recommend this product for those who have been struggling with weary and tired skin in a way to moisturise and hydrate it to the fullest.
We recommend this product for combination skin and dry skin.
Key Features:
- Gentle formula
- Hydrates and moisturises skin
- Rejuvenates dull sin
Dear Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser
This cleanser is great for sensitive skin that wants to be cleansed and hydrated at the same time.
This cleanser comprises amino acids which are really delicate on sensitive skin. it makes certain to enthusiastically wipe out each pore in your skin. It comprises ceramides, hyaluronic corrosive, and olive oil that don’t bother delicate skin.
It is perhaps the most famous Korean cleanser and is liberated from all harmful synthetic substances and additives. See decrease of skin inflammation and pimples with the use of this cleaning agent which is best for sensitive skin.
A patented formula in this product is designed to clean and condition perfectly without leaving behind the tough after-feel that harsh soaps and detergents can leave behind.
Key Feature:
- Recommended for Sensitive skin.
Pro:
- Does not cause redness or other skin alterations.
- Hydrating
Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam
In traditional Korean medicine, hangbang ingredients are used in making this top luxury brand of South Korea. Your skin will benefit from using this gentle cleanser with a low pH that is ideal for its wellbeing and provides a great moisture barrier.
If you want to feel safe and secure, then choose this gentle foam cleanser from Sulwhasoo which will leave your skin clean and hydrated by removing any dead skin cells without overstimulating it.
Though it is an expensive option, it is available in a wide variety of sizes and is worth considering if you can afford it. The best about it is the availability of its formula for all skin types.
This product removes makeup easily, is gentle on the skin, does not cause any breakouts, and leaves the skin feeling silky soft in a way that you must have not experienced with other skin products and It thoroughly cleans the skin.
It smells wonderful, it feels nice, and it leaves the skin really clean but not dry at all. This cleansing foam tenderly eliminates dead skin cells without overwhelming the skin. Leaving behind a layer of dampness for a spotless and smooth base. After several uses your skin defines to look dewy and full of plump.
Key Features
- Recommended for all types of skin.
- Gentle on the eyes.
Pro
- It helps maintain hydrated, supple skin even long after cleansing.
- Easy to rinse away and leaves a nice moisture in the skin.
Cons
- Expensive
- Dissipates pretty quickly
Now that we have the entire list curated for you, there might be concerns that people may have with these Korean cleansers. Especially those who have not used gel cleansers.
So we have answered some of the most popular questions.
Korean Cleansers: FAQs
Which is better gel or foam cleanser?
Gel and foam cleansers have different effects on the skin so each of these types work differently on each skin type. While gel cleansers work for those who are in need of in depth cleansing with their pores treated right. It works well with those who have wider pores and aging skin as well. If you go out too much and are in need of a product to wash the entire day off, gel cleansers should be your choice. Both gel and foam cleansers are the best ways to cleanse your face but gel cleansers are ideal if you have sensitive and acne-prone skin. This is because gel cleansers have mild cleansing properties that don’t disrupt the natural oils of your skin and they help maintain a balanced PH level. Foaming cleansers are a bit more strong and work into removing heavier substances like makeup. Even though it works equally well on oily skin types as gel cleansers, it has the ability to go in deep and remove accumulations.
What is the difference between cleanser and face wash? Are they the same?
A cleanser and a face wash basically work towards the same goal. To clean your skin out.
Face washes are foam based and work into scrubbing harder on the skin and works mostly on the surface of the skin.
A cleanser on the other hand, is more what happens within the pores. It is used for those who want to take off impurities that have been embedded in their skin for a long time.
Using gel based cleansers or to be more precise – A Korean cleanser – can work wonders on your skin and allow you to make a difference on your skin for the longer run. It has the right effect on the skin texture and improves it by observing the condition of it and how often you use it.
Are gel cleansers good for acne prone skin?
Gel cleansers are an ideal solution for people with acne-prone skin. This is because gel cleansers contain antiseptic ingredients that fight acne-causing bacteria in your skin. In addition, gel cleansers also don’t contain any harmful chemicals which can disrupt the oil production in your skin to cause acne.
Is gel face wash good for oily skin?
Gel face washes are good for those tackling oily skin problems. Gel cleansers are generally made with antiseptic ingredients that reduce the excess oil production in your skin, they also don’t irritate your skin and they keep the sebum production in your skin under control.
Which type of cleanser is best for oily skin?
The best facial cleanser for oily skin is a gel cleanser. This is because gel cleansers have ingredients that reduce the oil and sebum production in your skin and it also helps to tackle acne. Gel cleansers also have a lower PH level than foam cleansers and hence help you maintain healthy-looking skin. The best Korean cleanser for oily skin is COSRX Low pH Morning Gel Cleanser
Why You Should Trust BestKoreanProducts?
All our editors including the author of this article, Jih Yun do extensive research on the products reviewed and recommended in the article. We also use these products ourself to give you accurate, first hand information without any prejudice or bias. BestKoreanproducts has also got a team of medical reviewers and skincare experts to help give accurate advice and provide research-based facts concerning a product, its formulation or ingredients.
Also Read:
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COSRX Low pH Morning Gel Cleanser
Check out the best Korean gel cleansers formulated for different skin types including sensitive skin. The formulas are gentle and yet strong enough to get rid of impurities.
Product SKU: 009POI542266
Product Brand: COSRX
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 8.29
Price Valid Until: 2022
Product In-Stock: InStock
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