Cleansing is, without a doubt, one of the most important steps of the skincare routine. It’s the step responsible for clearing the skin of any pollutants and impurities before any hydrators or boosters are applied, in order to get you a clean canvas to apply your skincare on. Cleansing is required in both AM and PM routines as the buildup of debris accumulates during the day and as you sleep. Even in a minimal 3-step routine, cleanser takes up one of those significant spots.

As with any other skincare category, there are so many different types of cleansers out there and it may be hard to find the right one for you. What’s the best cleanser that will help you meet your skin goals? Which oil cleanser will fit best in your routine? We’ve rounded up the top VANA fan-approved oil-based and water-based cleansers to nail your cleansing routine and emerge with healthy, sparkling skin. Ditch the ill-fitting formulas and discover your next HG cleansing essentials - just keep scrolling.

Oil-Based Cleansers

No. 1

Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Haruharu WONDER

The Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil is made to be used by all skin types to clear away impurities and residue. It’s made up of only 9 essential ingredients to reduce any potential irritation, including Rice Bran, Olive and Macadamia Seed oils that nourish and clarify the complexion. Is it any wonder it’s snagged a coveted VANA Award?

No. 2

ma:nyo - Pure Cleansing Oil

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - ma:nyo

Out of all K-beauty cleansing oils, the ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil is by far one of the most popular and repurchased formulas you can find. Fans love it for its gentle texture and formulation that doesn’t compromise on its ability to wash away the most waterproof of mascaras or the most longwearing of foundations. Key ingredients include 14 plant-based oils, such as Argan Kernel and Jojoba Seed oils.

No. 3

heimish - All Clean Balm (Mandarin)

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - heimish

Skin buildup, stubborn makeup and blackheads meet their match with the heimish All Clean Balm (Mandarin). This daily cleansing balm melts into an oil and emulsifies into a milk to unclog the pores, gently exfoliating dead skin cells to reveal even, luminous skin. Shea Butter enhances skin moisture levels and elasticity, while Coconut maintains a soft and healthy complexion.

No. 4

DHC - Deep Cleansing Oil

Courtesy of Japanese Skincare Brand - DHC

The cult-favorite DHC Deep Cleansing Oil relies on the scientific premise that ‘like attracts like’; this is why the olive oil-based formula is so effective in drawing out excess sebum and dissolving impurities. Its Rosemary Leaf Oil and Vitamin E components create a spa-like experience, feeling silky and delicate on the skin, and the oil rinses away without clogging the pores or leaving any residue.

No. 5

BANILA CO - Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - BANILA CO

Many K-beauty lovers started their double cleansing journey with the BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm. As the sherbert-like texture breaks down into an oil, it employs Zero Balance Technology to deeply cleanse the complexion without stripping hydration away. It’s formulated with all skin types in mind, including sensitive skin, and is gentle on all parts of the face. No stinging or teary eyes with this Holy Grail!

No. 6

I'm From - Fig Cleansing Balm

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - I'm From

If rejuvenating a fatigued and tired complexion is one of your skin goals, add the I'm From Fig Cleansing Balm to your daily lineup. It’s rich in vitamins and polyphenols that restore vitality to the skin, and its key ingredient Fig Oil Water breaks down excess sebum to prevent blackheads while combating dark spots and redness. Free of artificial fragrance, the balm exudes a naturally invigorating Fig aroma that elevates the cleansing experience.

Water-Based Cleansers

No. 1

COSRX - Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - COSRX

Start your mornings (and nights) on the right foot with the COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. Formulated to be mildly acidic, this non-stripping cleanser refines skin texture as it clears away surface buildup. It features BHA and Tea Tree Oil for soothing and strengthening the complexion, suitable for anyone looking to enhance skin clarity and luminosity.

No. 2

The Face Shop - Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - The Face Shop

Aiming to emerge from your cleanse with brighter, more even skin? The Face Shop's Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser is right up your alley. This cleanser transforms from a whipped texture into a bouncy foam upon lathering it up that feels ultra-soft on the skin. Rice extracts and Rice Bran Oil lend their radiance-boosting properties to support a natural glow, in addition to hydrating the skin to prevent any tight or stripped sensations post-cleanse.

No. 3

ETUDE - Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - ETUDE

Sensitivity is made a thing of the past with the ETUDE Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser. Calming Madecassoside joins forces with hydrating Panthenol to form a gentle, weakly acidic foam that cleanses the skin and soothes existing irritation. Its soft bubbles minimize friction when washing to prevent further irritation, supporting skin healing and maintenance.

No. 4

I'm From - Mugwort Gel Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - I'm From

The I'm From Mugwort Gel Cleanser helps you achieve an ultra-clean and clarified complexion with the help of 60% Mugwort extract. This mild gel cleanser keeps the skin soothed as it lifts remnants of sunscreen, makeup and other hidden impurities, diving deep into the pores to balance sebum levels and minimize future breakouts. A vegan-friendly formula, it’s made without synthetic fragrances, alcohol, or other aggravating ingredients.

No. 5

Round Lab - Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Round Lab

Douse your skin in refreshing hydration with the Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser. Its key ingredient, Birch Juice, is chock-full of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins that purify and hydrate the skin; it’s joined by Hyaluronic Acid to pump the skin with moisture and Sweet Wormwood extract for soothing redness and breakouts. Users of all skin types can use this water gel formula, as it skips out on stripping or irritating ingredients.

No. 6

Isntree - Yam Root Vegan Milk Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Isntree

Many cleanser formulations can be overly drying, but the Isntree Yam Root Vegan Milk Cleanser is anything but. Yam Root-derived Phyto-Mucin replenishes moisture back into the skin without weighing it down, helping to smooth out rough skin texture and fortify the moisture barrier with the aid of a conditioning and soothing Vegan Milk Complex. Think of a nourishing moisturizer, but in cleanser form that removes ultra-fine dust and other impurities from the skin.

Secure your cleansing essentials ASAP to set your skincare routines up for success! Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!