Are You Cleansing Your Skin the Right Way?
Why Cleansing Is the Foundation of Skincare
By Soonsu Beauty | July 13 2025
Cleansing is no longer a passive, basic step—it’s now a skincare treatment in its own right. From barrier repair to antioxidant protection, the new generation of cleansers offers much more than a clean face. In this three-part series, we explore how modern Korean cleansers redefine skincare, starting from step zero.
1. From Soap to Science
Traditionally, cleansing was synonymous with stripping—removing dirt and oil with aggressive surfactants. Unfortunately, this often damaged the lipid barrier and caused long-term sensitivity. But now, cleansers are formulated with skin barrier science in mind. They’re low-pH, microbiome-friendly, and even nutrient-rich.
2. Pandemic-Fueled Awareness
During COVID-19, constant mask use led to inflammation and barrier breakdown. People noticed that their expensive serums weren’t working—and began tracing the issue back to their cleansers. The result? A surge in skincare-first cleansing formulas.
3. The Rise of the “0 Step”
Brands like Sulwhasoo, Anua, and APLB now produce cleansers infused with ingredients like ginseng extract, heartleaf, glutathione, and niacinamide. These products treat skin while cleansing—transforming your facial wash into the most important part of your skincare ritual.
4. Ingredient Spotlight: Powerhouse Actives in Korean Cleansers
- Niacinamide – A brightening agent that reduces inflammation and boosts ceramide production to strengthen the skin barrier.
- Glutathione – Known as the "master antioxidant," it helps brighten skin tone and neutralize oxidative stress.
- PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide) – A regenerative compound derived from DNA fragments that accelerates cell repair and healing.
- Centella Asiatica – Rich in madecassoside, it calms redness and supports wound healing.
- Ginseng Extract – Offers revitalizing, anti-aging, and circulation-boosting effects.
- Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) – A go-to for calming acne-prone and inflamed skin.
5. Delivery Systems in Cleanser Technology
Advanced cleansers aren’t just about what’s inside—they’re about how ingredients are delivered. Korean skincare brands use emulsification technology, nano-encapsulation, and proprietary skin-coating techniques to ensure that key actives survive brief cleansing contact and still provide benefits post-rinse.
For example, Sulwhasoo’s Ginseng Cleanser uses a layered oil-in-water coating system to preserve hydration. APLB’s balancing foam uses bio-fermented enzymes to help exfoliate gently while prepping the skin for actives like niacinamide and glutathione.
Clinical studies have shown that when properly formulated, cleansers can enhance skin hydration, reduce inflammation markers, and even stimulate collagen production—yes, even in under a minute of contact time.
6. Product Highlights
1. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
A cult-favorite morning cleanser, this gel formula helps maintain a healthy skin barrier with a skin-friendly pH of 5.5. With tea tree oil and natural BHA, it clarifies and soothes without stripping. Suitable for all skin types, it’s especially loved by those with sensitive, acne-prone, or combination skin.
2. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleanser
A luxurious, pH-balanced cleansing foam that delivers both purity and comfort. This rich, cushiony formula gently removes impurities and excess sebum without stripping the skin, making it ideal for all skin types—including dry and sensitive.
3. Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Cleansing Foam
Formulated with 77% Heartleaf Extract and patented Quercetinol™, this cleanser reduces inflammation, soothes irritation, and maintains optimal skin pH. Anua’s cleansing foam has a creamy texture that’s ideal for combination and acne-prone skin.
4. Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
This iconic sherbet-textured cleansing balm is a global bestseller for a reason. It melts away heavy makeup, waterproof sunscreen, and impurities while keeping the skin soft and nourished. Infused with acerola extract and vitamin C-rich botanicals, it brightens the skin with every use and rinses off clean with no oily residue. Ideal for all skin types and a must-have for step one of your evening double cleanse.
5. Hanskin Cleansing Oil & Blackhead PHA
Designed for deep pore cleansing, this lightweight oil combines the power of plant oils and polyhydroxy acids (PHA) to gently exfoliate, unclog blackheads, and regulate sebum. It emulsifies instantly and removes even stubborn makeup. Perfect for oily, combination, and congested skin, this oil helps refine skin texture with continued use.
7. How to Use: Morning & Night Routines
Morning
- Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to refresh and rebalance your skin without over-stripping.
- Follow with toner, vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Evening
- Double cleanse: Start with an oil cleanser to remove makeup and SPF, then follow with one of the recommended foam cleansers.
- Apply soothing or repairing serum like peptides, retinol (if used), or calming ampoules.
- Finish with a nourishing moisturizer or sleeping pack.
8. Cleansing That Changes Your Skin
Gone are the days of harsh soaps and basic face washes. The new wave of Korean cleansers proves that skincare starts from the very first second. Whether you're looking to calm sensitivity, restore radiance, or slow down aging, cleansing is no longer optional—it's transformative.
Shop these next-generation cleansers and more at Soonsu Beauty and unlock your skin’s full potential—starting at step zero.