5 Best Korean Cleansing Balms & Makeup Removers

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), removing makeup before going to bed is critical to healthy skin. It can increase the risk of blackheads, clogged pores, and acne breakouts.

The first step in a Korean double-cleansing routine involves removing makeup with balm or oil. Balm and oil cleansers are powerful products that help draw out dirt, sebum, and makeup residue, which can irritate the skin and cause it to age more rapidly. 

However, businesses looking to choose the right Korean cleansing balm can get overwhelmed with many options in the market, all with different ingredients and benefits.

This blog lists five of the best Korean makeup removers that cater to various needs, preferences, and skin types. Adding these best-selling products into any daily regimen can help keep skin smooth, healthy, and blemish-free.

1. COSRX’s Pure Fit Cica Smoothing Cleansing Balm

Consumers with sensitive skin can’t go wrong with COSRX’s Pure Fit Cica Smoothing Cleansing Balm.

This popular Korean cleansing balm combines shea butter with soothing Pure Fit Cica-7 Complex to keep skin dewy and moisturized. It’s also enriched with coconut extract, a gentle and natural cleansing component that eliminates makeup and impurities, leaving skin soft, calm and residue-free.

Featuring skin-safe ingredients that nourish and hydrate, this makeup remover is also known for its smooth, sorbet-like texture that melts onto the skin. Rest assured, this product has been clinically tested for users with sensitive skin and who are concerned about potential irritation.

How To Use

  • Gently massage an appropriate amount on a dry face.
  • Add a little bit of water and continue massaging for 30 seconds.
  • Rinse the balm with lukewarm water.

2. The Face Shop’s Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil

Many makeup users know the importance of a good cleanser at the end of the day. For cleansers that work effectively against makeup residue, The Face Shop’s Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil is a popular product. 

This cleansing oil became a cult favorite, especially among users who wear makeup resistant to everyday elements. Known for its powerful makeup-removing features, it can effectively remove most makeup, base makeup products, and sunscreen. Despite its potency, it is easy on the skin and leaves a fresh and light feeling users can appreciate for their nightly cleanse. 

The Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil has natural ingredients that promote smoother and brighter skin. Jojoba oil dissolves makeup residue while hydrating your skin, while its signature ingredient, rice bran, naturally clarifies the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially consumers with dull, acne-prone skin. 

How To Use

  • Press the pump to dispense a small amount of cleansing oil.
  • Use your fingertips to massage the oil around the face in circular motions gently. 
  • Wipe off with a soft tissue or cotton pad, then rinse with water.

3. NEEDLY’s Mild Micellar Cleansing Water

A relatively new product in the market from NEEDLY, their Mild Micellar Cleansing Water is becoming a popular Korean makeup remover for users that want hydration without the oily residue. 

NEEDLY’s micellar water features the strong cleansing power consumers can expect from quality Korean skincare products. However, it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural hydration and has toner hydration levels without the tight feeling. The product has undergone three stages of functional cleansing tests and successfully removes micro dust, pore-clogging impurities, and even the most stubborn waterproof makeup products. 

NEEDLY’s cleansing water is suitable for vegans and cruelty-free users and is EVE VEGAN certified. 

How To Use

  • Wet a cotton pad with cleansing water. 
  • Gently swipe on the face to remove dirt, makeup and excess oils.
  • To remove colored and waterproof makeup, hold the cotton pad over the area for at least five seconds before gently wiping. 

4. Banila Co’s Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm

Banila Co’s Clean It Zero Balm is a cult favorite thanks to its ability to quickly dissolve stubborn makeup and impurities without clearing the skin of beneficial oils and disrupting its natural moisture balance. This hypoallergenic cleansing cream has a sorbet-like texture but transforms into a silky oil when applied. It tones, brightens and naturally exfoliates, leaving skin smooth and glowing.

The Clean It Zero Balm has four variations for each skin type: oily, dry, combination, acne-prone and sensitive. It also works as an eye makeup remover without the risk of irritation or blurry vision.

How To Use

  • Use the spatula to scoop out a tiny dollop and apply it on skin until it melts.
  • Gently massage in circular motions until the makeup is thoroughly removed. 
  • Rinse with water.

5. Heimish’s All Clean Balm

Another absolute fan favorite among skincare consumers is Heimish’s All Clean Balm. Often compared to Banila Co’s Cleansing Balm, Heimish’s cleanser features a thicker consistency that’s gentle on the skin. And while Banila Co’s formula focuses on brightening and smoothing, the All Clean Balm is designed for hydrating and soothing as it removes makeup and other impurities. 

The solid balm turns into a silky oil that’s soft and lightweight. This product doesn’t strip off natural oils and contains ingredients such as shea butter to hydrate while cleansing. Its formula is also hypoallergenic and paraben-free, making it a good option for users with sensitive and acne-prone skin. 

How To Use

  • Scoop a small amount with a spatula.
  • Massage the balm on your dry face in circular motions to emulsify it.
  • Keep massaging to remove stubborn makeup, and then rinse with lukewarm water. 

Shop the Best Korean Makeup Removers at UMMA!

Over the years, the Korean beauty industry has developed remarkable products that allow the skin to breathe and recover from the day’s impurities. 

At UMMA, we carry a wide range of cleansing balms and makeup removers from over 120+ trusted brands. As your all-in-one K-beauty wholesale shop, we offer competitive pricing and end-to-end support for businesses of all sizes.

Register for free to access our shop and enjoy insider exclusives such as 48-hour shipping, special offers and points rewards. Grow your K-beauty business with us!

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