Collection: Cleansing Balms & Oils

The first step to truly clean, glowing skin. Cleansing balms and oils are the oil-based first cleanse in the Korean double cleansing method. They melt away makeup, sunscreen, SPF and excess oil that water-based cleansers leave behind, so the rest of your routine can actually work. This collection brings together the best Korean cleansing balms and oils for every skin type.

Cleansing balm or cleansing oil?

Both do the same job, so it comes down to texture preference. A cleansing oil is liquid, spreads easily and rinses fast, which oily and combination skin often love. A cleansing balm is a solid that melts into an oil on contact, feels cushiony and travel-friendly, and tends to suit normal to dry skin. Either way, they're the gentle way to remove even long-wear makeup and sunscreen.

Why oil-based first cleansing matters

Oil dissolves oil. Sunscreen, makeup and the day's grime are largely oil-based, and a water or foam cleanser alone can't fully remove them, which leads to clogged pores and dull skin. An oil or balm cleanse lifts all of that away first, so your second cleanse and treatments land on truly clean skin. Learn the full method in our guide: Double Cleansing: The Complete Korean Guide.

How to use a cleansing balm or oil

Apply to dry hands and dry skin, massage gently to melt away makeup and sunscreen, then add a little water to emulsify (it turns milky) and rinse. Follow with a water-based cleanser to complete your double cleanse. Use it in the evening; mornings usually only need the second cleanse.

Best for your skin type

• Oily & combination — lightweight cleansing oils rinse clean without residue. See oily skin.
• Dry & normal — nourishing cleansing balms feel comfortable and cushiony. See dry & dehydrated skin.
• Sensitive — gentle, fragrance-light balms and oils remove makeup without stripping. See sensitive skin.
• Blackheads & congestion — pore-focused oils help loosen buildup; see pore & texture care.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a cleansing balm and a cleansing oil?
They do the same job. An oil is liquid and rinses fast (great for oily skin), while a balm is solid, melts on contact and feels cushiony (great for dry or normal skin).

Do I use a cleansing oil on wet or dry skin?
Apply to dry skin and dry hands first, massage, then add water to emulsify and rinse.

Do I still need a second cleanser?
Yes. The oil or balm is the first cleanse; follow it with a water-based cleanser to complete the double cleanse.

Are cleansing oils good for acne-prone skin?
Yes, a well-formulated cleansing oil removes sunscreen and makeup that clog pores. Follow with a gentle second cleanse for best results.