Are you looking for the best Korean acne face wash? I’ve a curated list of the best ones that will soothe your skin and help you get rid of acne.
Dealing with acne is tough. If you don’t take proper care, it can leave permanent scars and marks on the face. Koreans are known for their beauty and beauty products and these cleansing face washes are their best creations to get rid of acne.
Using a face wash is an essential part of Korean skincare regime. Often they use the double-cleansing method, first time to remove makeup and dirt and the next time clean the skin. This way, they’re able to achieve clean, dewy and hydrated skin.
Face washes are also great for pre-make up as it cleanses the skin before. Using a face wash lets you maintain your skin hygiene and undoubtedly is one of the most essential skincare products.
Without further ado, let’s move on to the best Korean acne face washes that will help you minimize and eventually get rid of acne from your skin.
Best Korean Acne Face Wash: Quick Summary
| Best Korean Acne Face Wash | Best For | Link |
| Yadah Anti-Trouble Bubble Cleanser | Sensitive and Acne-prone skin | Check Price on Amazon |
| Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser | Sensitive and Acne-prone skin | Check Price on Amazon |
| Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser | Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal skin | Check Price on Amazon |
| Etude House Wonder Pore Deep Foaming Cleanser | Sensitive skin | Check Price on Amazon |
| Innisfree Green Tea Foaming Cleanser | Oily skin | Check Price on Amazon |
| Neogen Real Fresh Foam Green Tea Cleanser | Sensitive skin | Check Price on Amazon |
| Dr.Jart+ Dermaclear Micro Foam | Sensitive and Oily skin | Check Price on Amazon |
Which is the best Korean acne face wash?
My team and I tested 20+ Korean acne face wash and rated them on the basis of ingredients, after effects as well as clinical approval. We found Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser to be the best in the list.
Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser is formulated with mild ingredients like amino acids, tea tree oil, houttuynia cordata which are exfoliating and good for acne prone skin. The face wash is extremely relaxing and prevents breakouts quickly. It’s also great for hormonal acne. Klairs acne face wash is extremely soothing to the skin and leads to a soft and smooth skin.
Best Korean Acne Face Wash 2023
Active ingredients to look for in Korean acne face wash:
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is great for exfoliation and helps in getting rid of dead cells and clogged pores. It also inhibits the growth of acne by eliminating all the impurities from the face. If you’re likely to have whiteheads or blackheads, this is the best ingredient to have in your acne face wash.
- Sulfur and Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA): AHA and sulfur are great ingredients for acne prone skin that controls facial sebum which leads to acne, boosts collagen production, as well as exfoliates dead cells from the surface of your skin.
- Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide has antimicrobial properties that helps in keeping the skin clean and removes impurities that might trigger acne.
How to choose the right Korean acne face wash:
- Ingredients: Choose a face wash that is non comedogenic and contains ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur as well as AHA. These ingredients help in keeping the skin clear and boost collagen.
- Price: Don’t focus on the price of your acne face wash but how your skin feels after using it. Pricier products don’t guarantee best results so choose an acne face wash that works out for you and brings the best results.
- Recommendations: It might be a little confusing to choose the right acne face wash at times so it’s advisable to consult your dermatologist and get recommendations from him about what would work best for your skin.
Is cream face wash better for acne or foam cleanser?
The effectiveness of cream face wash versus foam cleanser for acne can vary depending on individual skin types and preferences. Cream face washes typically have a more moisturizing and nourishing formula, which can be beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin.
The cream texture can help retain moisture and prevent over-drying, which is important when dealing with acne-prone skin. On the other hand, foam cleansers tend to have a lighter and more refreshing feel, making them suitable for oily or combination skin types.
Foam cleansers are often preferred by individuals who desire a deep-cleansing sensation and a thorough removal of excess oil and impurities.
Ultimately, choosing between a cream face wash and a foam cleanser for acne should be based on your skin type, concerns, and personal preferences. It is recommended to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized advice.
Tips for reducing acne from skin using Korean Skincare
Korean skincare routines are known for their multi-step approach and focus on gentle, hydrating products. Here are some tips for reducing acne using Korean skincare:
- Double Cleansing: Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. Follow it up with a gentle water-based cleanser to deep clean the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
- Exfoliation: Incorporate gentle exfoliation into your routine to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs, which are milder than physical scrubs.
- Hydration: Hydrating the skin is crucial, even for acne-prone skin. Use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers and consider adding a hydrating toner or essence to provide an extra layer of moisture.
- Spot Treatments: Utilize targeted spot treatments with ingredients like tea tree oil or centella asiatica to address active acne breakouts. These ingredients have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Sheet Masks: Treat your skin to hydrating and calming sheet masks regularly. Look for masks that contain ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, or snail mucin, which can help soothe irritated skin.
- Sun Protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas suitable for daily use.
- Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Minimize the use of harsh ingredients like alcohol or sulfates, as they can strip the skin and lead to further irritation. Opt for gentle and non-irritating products instead.
- Consistency: Consistency is key when it comes to skincare. Stick to your routine and give it time to work before expecting results. Results may not be immediate, so be patient and persistent.
Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, and it’s important to listen to your skin’s needs. If acne persists or worsens, it’s recommended to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options.
Yadah Anti-Trouble Bubble Cleanser
Yadah is the best korean face wash for breakout and acne control that is perfect for sensitive skin. It is a whipped type of cleanser that comes with a pump and no extra water is needed while applying it.
I’ve been using it for my acne-prone skin for so long and I’m certainly impressed with the results. It feels so light when you cleanse your face with this foaming face wash.
It has a ph of 5.5 that lowers the acidity levels of your skin. It has aloe vera, green tea and rosemary that kills acne causing microbes. It is free of toxic ingredients like parabens, mineral oil, sulphate etc.
It also doesn’t contain any artificial dyes. It is 100% plant based and vegan friendly. This acne face wash controls breakout and excess sebum production with BHA addition and amino acids.
Key Features:
- Ph level of 5.5
- 100% plant based
- BHA additions and amino acids
- Paraben, mineral oil and sulphate free
- Related: Best Korean Ampoule for Acne Scars
- Related: Top Korean Serum for Acne Prone Skin
- Related: Top Korean Moisturiser for Acne Prone Skin
Klairs Rich Moist Foaming Cleanser
This is another whipped foaming cleanser that works great on acne-prone skin. It deep cleanses the pores on your skin and moisturises it. It has amino acids which is the main component of protein.
This acne face wash will bring smooth skin back to you as it contains a low irritant exfoliating ingredient with extracts of tea tree oil and houttuynia cordata. These ingredients are great for skin related troubles like dandruff, acne, herpes etc.
It also contains Hyaluronic acid, ceramides & aloe for extra moisture and gives your face a relaxing therapy. This klairs face wash is one of the best acne face wash that actually shows results.
My friend who has hormonal acne issues uses this acne face wash and her acne has really come down. The breakouts have also stopped to a certain level.
Key Features:
- Amino acids
- Tea tree oil and houttuynia cordata extracts for exfoliation
- Good for hormonal acne as well
Related: Best Korean Sunscreen for Acne prone Skin
Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Cosrx gel cleanser can be used skin types which are sensitive and a combination of oily and dry. It soothes skin irritation and cleanses skin irritation. This acne face wash cleanser can be used both in the morning as well as night.
It is 100% vegan and cruelty free. Cosrx gel cleanser has no artificial fragrance added and is also paraben-free. It does not dry your skin and feels super hydrating.
The betaine salicylate present in it gently exfoliates and unclogs pores. There are also herbal ingredients present in this face wash that benefits the skin and makes it better.
Cosrx is one of the top brands in Korea for skincare products that show impressive results so this gel cleanser is definitely something you can rely on to make your skin acne-free.
Key Features:
- 100% vegan and cruelty free
- No artificial scent
- Paraben free
- Herbal ingredients present
Related: Best Korean Foundation for Oily Acne prone Skin
Etude House Wonder Pore Deep Foaming Cleanser
This Etude House acne face wash is HET-CAM tested and is great for sensitive skin type. If you double cleanse your face with this face wash, you’ll be able to get rid of your dead skin and excessive oil.
It feels super refreshing and works like a charm on your skin. It has a fresh mint fragrance that will awaken your skin cells. This acne face wash minimises pores that leads to the development of dirt and acne.
Take a bit of the gel cleaner on the tips of your fingers, foam it with water in your palms and gently rub it on your skin in a circular motion. Wash your face with lukewarm water. Ta Da! Your face is glowing!
Key Features:
- HET-CAM Tested
- Great for sensitive skin
- Get rid of dead skin
- Minimises pores
Related: Best Korean Pimple Cream
Innisfree Green Tea Foaming Cleanser
Innisfree green tea foaming cleanser is one of the best Korean acne face washes. It is great for all skin types, especially sensitive and oily. This green tea cleanser was made after examining 2401 different varieties of green tea to find out which is best suited for skin.
It contains high levels of amino acids that are rich in protein. The consistency of this acne face wash is creamy and thick and forms perfect lather when mixed with a bit of water. It moisturises and cleans the skin that is really oily.
This acne face wash contains no harmful chemicals and is also paraben-free and SLS-free. It balances the ph level of the skin. Innisfree green tea face wash is one of the best to get rid of your acne and restore your hydration.
I personally love this non-foaming cleanser. It really awakens my skin and results in a great glow.
Key Features:
- Amino acids present
- Creamy and thick consistency
- Paraben and SLS free
- Green Tea extracts
Innisfree – Bija Anti-Trouble Cleansing Gel
Another Innisfree cleansing gel that is great for acne prone skin is this Bija cleansing gel. It has salicylic acid that fights acne and fungal acne growth on the skin. It has a very low ph of 3.0 that will help lower the acidity level of your skin.
It contains loads of natural ingredients like Bija, satsuma (japanese citrus fruit), camellia japonica, green tea etc. which are all antioxidants. It reduces blackheads along with acne.
It is a lightweight gel and will help you keep your skin soft, smooth and gentle. So opt for it and feel the difference!
Key Features:
- Low ph of 3.0
- Natural ingredients like green tea, satsuma, bija
- Reduces blackheads as well
Neogen Real Fresh Foam Green Tea Cleanser
This Neogen foam cleanser is one product that everyone should try as the results are mind blowing. It contains fermented green tea leaves that are visible from the outside of the bottle that soothes inflammation.
It has a ph level of 8 that will cause no skin irritation. This korean acne face wash removes impurities and keeps the skin dirt-free for a long time. It contains no harmful chemicals and is free of paraben and sulphate.
Neogen is clinically tested to be safe and effective. It is good to get rid of pimples and regain soft and smooth skin. This face wash for acne prone skin is really worth trying.
Key Features:
- Fermented green tea present
- Ph level of 8
- Paraben and Sulphate free
- No harmful chemicals
Dr.Jart+ Dermaclear Micro Foam
Dr. Jart+ face wash is really effective and soothes the skin. The face wash consistency is creamy and forms micro form lather. It cleans the impurities from seeping in deep. It is great for oily skin type.
It contains a herb complex that calms the skin and the after effects feel super good. It has dead sea salt that has skin-nourishing and antibacterial effects. This korean cleaner doesn’t harm the natural skin properties when removing dirt from the skin.
Dr. Jart+ cleanser doesn’t contain sulphate, SLS or paraben and is hypoallergenic. It is a great product to try that shows great results. This cleansing foam smells like coconut and feels tropical when applied to the skin.
Key Features:
- No SLS, sulphate or paraben
- Contains herb complex
- Coconut fragrance
Acne-Free Skin
It is an absolute bliss to get rid of acne that causes irritation, inflammation and rough skin. Using these Korean acne face washes can really help to minimise the outbreak as well as hydrate your skin.
It will also keep your skin dewy and glowing. The above mentioned products are some of the best Korean acne face washes that have shown impressive results so do try them out and let me know the results in the comment section below!
Hope you have a glowing, smooth and glass-like skin!
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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.
