At the end of the day, the first decision is often a small one: a jar, a pump or a tube? Korean cleansers come in all three, and the best place to begin is with what you need to wash away.
Think about your makeup, the products you wear during the day and the texture you enjoy using. Then read the directions for the exact formula. A beautiful jar is a pleasure; knowing how it belongs in your routine is what makes it useful.
Cleansing balm or cleansing oil?
The difference begins with the texture. Beauty of Joseon describes its Radiance Cleansing Balm as a solid balm that becomes an oil during application, while its Ginseng Cleansing Oil begins as a liquid. Both sit in the brand’s first-cleanse category. The brand’s balm guide explains the distinction.
The jar or pump is a matter of preference, not a ranking. Consider whether you like scooping a balm or dispensing a liquid, how the packaging fits your shelf and the directions you are willing to follow each evening.
Where does a face wash fit?
A rinse-off face wash is another option to compare. In Beauty of Joseon’s two-step routine, its Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser follows the balm. That tells you how those particular products are intended to work together; it does not make every cleanser interchangeable.
For the Radiance balm, the manufacturer specifies application to dry skin, adding water to emulsify, rinsing and following with a water-based cleanser. Check your own bottle or jar before borrowing another product’s instructions.
Do I have to double cleanse?
A two-step cleanse is a way to arrange particular products, rather than an obligation to buy a second bottle. Start with the removal instructions for what you wear and the cleanser you choose. If you use a balm designed to be followed by a face wash, follow that direction.
Our approach is to give every step a reason. If you are adding two products to your basket, be able to explain the role of each. You can explore the wider framework in our Korean skincare routine guide.
Keep the washing itself gentle
The American Academy of Dermatology’s face-washing guidance recommends a gentle cleanser, lukewarm water and fingertips rather than scrubbing tools. It advises patting dry with a soft towel and limiting washing to twice a day and after sweating. Product-specific application instructions still matter.
Before you choose
- Read the full name and size. A mini, refill or set can look similar in a photograph. Compare the actual volume and pack count.
- Check the current ingredients. Use the packaging for the exact version you are buying.
- Check the next step. Is this a first cleanse, a rinse-off wash or a product with a different removal method?
- Choose a texture you enjoy. The bottle that earns its place is the one you can use as directed, comfortably and consistently.
Explore Korean Cleansers or finish your shelf with a moisturizer.
Written by Kim Jong Beauty. Updated October 16, 2026. Check the directions and ingredient list on your exact product.
