Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. But using the wrong cleanser—too harsh, too stripping, or too rich—can cause breakouts, dryness, and uneven skintone. After 18+ years of treating the skin, these are the cleansers I consistently recommend to my clients.
My Top Picks for Acne-Prone/Oily Skin:
Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser
✅ Acne-safe and esthetician-approved
✅ Ideal for inflamed or reactive acneCorthe Derma Pure Cleansing Foam
✅ Gentle Salicylic & Acne Safe
✅ Controls excess sebum and purifies the face✅ Gentle Salicylic acid & Acne Safe
✅ Non-stripping foamy texture
My Top Picks for Dry/dehydrated & Sensitive Skin:
Corthe Dermo Essential Foaming Gel Cleanser
✅ Foam type gentle plant-based cleanser
✅ Great for all skin types, forms a moisture barrierDermathod Morning Touch Foam Cleanser
✅ High Glycerin prolongs hydration
✅ Ideal for inflamed or reactive acneCOSRX Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
✅ PH-balancing mild face cleanser
✅ Removes impurities while strengthening the skin barrier
My Top Picks for Combination Skin
Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser Gel
✅ Provides both oil and moisture balance while declogging pores
✅ Brightens skin tone and helps with decongestion, especially blackheads
Innisfree Volcanic BHA Cleansing Foam
✅ Provides both oil and moisture balance while declogging pores
✅ Brightens skin tone and helps with decongestion, especially blackheads
✅ Hydrating, non-drying cleanser great for acne prone + sensitive skin (rosacea)
✅ Low pH to support the skin's natural balance
My Top Picks for Exfoliating Cleanser (2x a week)
✅ Great gentle exfoliant for sensitive skin
✅ Smoothes rough skin texture, blackhead control
Ma:nyo Vitamin C Deep Pore Cleansing Soda Foam
✅ Green tea leaf and papaya enzymes nourish skin.
✅ Removes impurities and dead skin cells without over-drying.
✅ Natural fruit exfoliant gently lifts impurities and unclogs pores
✅ Visibly minimizes pores and improves skin texture
Remember—your cleanser should support your treatment products, not fight against them. Stick to gentle formulas that keep your skin balanced.
👉 Need help choosing the right one? Please book a consultation or acne/skin care appointment with me!
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