Which Cleansing Oil is Right for You? Your Guide to the Viral K-Beauty Skincare Step for Every Skin Type

If you’ve spent any time on skincare TikTok or Instagram recently, you’ll have seen the rise of the double cleansing method– and at the heart of it is the cleansing oil. Once a niche step mostly followed by Korean beauty enthusiasts, cleansing oils are now firmly in the spotlight, with countless people raving about how they’ve cleared up their skin, melted away makeup, and even helped with blackheads. But with so many formulas on the market, it can be tricky to know which one suits your skin best.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide. Whether you’ve got oily skin, dry patches, acne-prone breakouts or sensitivity, we’ll help you find your perfect cleansing oil match. Read on for our top picks and find out what’s trending – and what actually works.

From acne-prone to dry and sensitive skin, discover the best Korean cleansing oils to match your skin type and upgrade your double cleanse routine. 

For sensitive or easily irritated skin

SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil is a lightweight yet effective oil cleanser is perfect for delicate skin types. Formulated with Centella Asiatica extract—a calming K-beauty hero—this centella cleansing oil gently dissolves makeup, SPF and impurities without disrupting your moisture barrier. Its non-comedogenic formula means it won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts, making it a safe choice for reactive skin.

For dehydrated skin that needs a boost

HaruHaru Wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil Unscented is packed with antioxidant-rich fermented black rice extract, this fragrance-free cleansing oil nourishes as it cleanses. It’s perfect for those with dry, tight skin who want a more luxurious first cleanse. The unscented version skips essential oils and fragrance altogether, making it ideal for those sensitive to scents.

For pore refining and skin nourishing

 

Eqqualberry Purple Rice Pore Smoothing Cleansing Oil is a gentle yet effective formula that harnesses the power of antioxidant-rich purple rice extract to help refine pores and brighten the skin. It effortlessly dissolves makeup and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture, making it perfect for those who want a deep clean with a nourishing touch. Ideal for combination and oily skin types, this cleansing oil leaves your face feeling fresh, smooth, and perfectly prepped for the rest of your skincare routine.

For balancing oil production and enlarged pores

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil - Viral for good reason, this popular cleansing oil harnesses Heartleaf extract—known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory benefits—to balance oil production while keeping pores clear. It has a silky texture that melts away impurities while refining skin texture and calming redness.

For dull, congested skin

Mixsoon Bean Cleansing Oil - this cult-favourite cleansing oil uses a blend of fermented beans and plant oils to gently exfoliate and decongest skin. Loved for its ability to brighten and smooth skin texture, it’s a great pick if you want something a bit more active but still gentle enough for daily use.

For nourishment and radiant skin

 

Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil is a nourishing and revitalising cleanser that gently removes makeup and impurities while boosting your skin’s natural glow. Infused with Korean ginseng extract, known for its powerful antioxidant properties, this oil helps to improve circulation and combat signs of fatigue and dullness. Its lightweight texture melts effortlessly into the skin, leaving it feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed without any greasy residue. Ideal for normal to dry skin types, it’s a perfect first step to awaken tired skin and promote a healthy, radiant complexion.

For all skin types, including sensitive 

Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil is formulated with deep sea water and nourishing oils, this gentle option lifts off makeup and sunscreen with ease. It’s a great all-rounder that suits most skin types, thanks to its non-stripping formula and minimalist ingredient list. A good choice if you’re new to oil cleansers and want something safe and effective.

For quick, fuss-free cleansing

Numbuzin No.1 Easy Peasy Cleansing Oil - as the name suggests, this one is all about simplicity. With plant-based oils and a smooth, gliding texture, it breaks down even waterproof makeup in seconds. Its no-fuss formula makes it perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a reliable, everyday option.

For oily and acne-prone skin

SOME BY MI Lacto Soy Sebum & Blackhead Cleansing Oil - formulated with soybean oil and probiotics, this is one of the best cleansing oils for those prone to congestion, breakouts, and excess sebum. It targets blackheads and clogged pores while helping balance your skin’s microbiome. If your skin overproduces oil but gets stripped easily, this one strikes the perfect balance.

For brightening and barrier repair

S.NATURE Aqua Rice Cleansing Oil - enriched with rice bran oil and ceramides, this skin-softening cleanser hydrates while lifting away makeup and impurities. It’s a great pick for those with dull or uneven skin tone, and works to maintain your barrier while giving you that dewy, post-cleanse glow.

For deep pore cleansing and light exfoliation

Jumiso Pore Clearing Cleansing Oil is a great pick for congested, combination skin, this cleansing oil contains natural plant oils and gentle exfoliating properties that help unclog pores and reduce blackheads. It emulsifies easily and rinses clean without leaving a greasy residue.

For a spa-like experience 

Ariul Apple Cider Deep Cleansing Oil X Crystal Cleansing Massager Set
This innovative set includes a fruit-acid-rich apple cider cleansing oil that offers both chemical exfoliation and thorough cleansing. The included massager boosts circulation and makes it easier to get a deep clean, especially around the nose and chin. It’s perfect if you love a bit of self-care and want to upgrade your cleansing game.

So, Which Cleansing Oil Is Right for You?

With so many options to choose from, the best Korean cleansing oil for you really comes down to your skin’s needs. If you’re oily or acne-prone, opt for pore-purifying ingredients like heartleaf or fermented soy. If you’re on the drier side, look for formulas with fermented rice or nourishing plant oils. And for sensitive skin? Stick to gentle, fragrance-free options with calming botanicals.

No matter your skin type, a good oil cleanser can make all the difference in your routine. Double cleansing isn’t just a trend—it’s a skincare ritual that’s here to stay.

Looking for your next holy grail?

Explore our full range of K-Beauty cleansing oils and find your perfect match today.