Water-Based Cleansers

A Korean face wash is a water-based cleanser, usually a low-pH gel, foam or cream, that cleans skin without leaving it squeaky or tight. It is the second step of a double cleanse, or the only cleanser in a quick routine. Every product in this collection is water-based.

Brands include Etude House, SKIN1004, Pyunkang Yul, Laundryou, ISOI, COSRX, CNP Laboratory and Isntree. Examples are the ROUNDLAB 1025 Dokdo Cleanser, the beplain Mung Bean pH-Balanced Cleansing Foam, the Dear Klairs Gentle Black Facial Cleanser, the Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser and the illiyoon Gentle Foaming Deep Facial Cleanser.

Pick a creamy or low-pH formula if your skin is dry or sensitive and a gel or foam if it is oily. Wash for about 30 seconds with lukewarm water, then follow with toner and moisturizer. If you wear sunscreen or makeup, start with an oil; Double Cleansing: When It Helps, When It Is Too Much explains the order.