Best Korean Exfoliator & How to Use Properly to Avoid Damaging Skin Barrier

Gentle Korean Exfoliators for All Skin Types

Being someone with delicate skin, the quest to discover effective skincare products that eliminate dead skin cells and unclog pores, while not causing irritation and dryness, has been quite challenging. However, after trying and testing several options, I’ve finally come across the ideal gentle Korean exfoliator suitable for every skin type. In this blog post, I’m excited to share my personal journey and recommend the best product that has worked wonders for me.

The benefits of exfoliating

• Exfoliating prevents the development of blemishes, flaky skin, rough skin patches, dark spots, and wrinkles.
• It helps clear clogged pores and stop acne outbreaks.
• It gives your skin a smooth feeling and ensures that the other skincare items in your program can benefit your skin.

Top-rated Korean Facial Exfoliator

I’m certain that you’ve encountered your fair share of harsh scrubs that have left your skin feeling uncomfortably tight and red, or chemical exfoliants that have caused stinging or burning sensations. Personally, I was guilty of assuming that a product had effectively exfoliated my skin if it gave me a tingling sensation or left my face feeling super clean. However, I quickly learned that abrasive exfoliation and over-stripping my skin only caused damage to my skin barrier and exacerbated my dry, sensitive skin. That’s when I decided to seek out a gentle Korean exfoliator specifically catered to all skin types. Now, I’m excited to share with you my top Korean skincare product picks for gentle exfoliation.

Best Overall: By Wishtrend Green Tea Enzyme Powder Wash

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Essential oil-free #Fragrance-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free #Cruelty-free #Vegan

Key Ingredients :

• Hydrating: Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine
• Brightening: Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C)

Cautions for Use :

None (All green-level ingredients)

Review:

As someone with sensitive skin, the standout feature of this product was how effectively it cleansed my skin without causing any irritation. Once I mixed the fine powder with water, it created a satisfying lather, making it easy to wash off without any tugging or pulling sensation. What’s more, I didn’t experience any adverse reactions or skin issues after using it. Although the difference may not be drastic, I did notice a subtle improvement in my skin’s tone and texture, likely due to the natural exfoliating properties of the enzymes.

This is a powder cleanser that also doubles as a scrub. It’s extremely gentle and provides a light scrub for a few seconds before completely dissolving into a cleanser. It contains a high content of Green tea which is a popular ingredient in Korea for anti-aging, soothing skin sensitivity, and antioxidant protection. It also contains Papain Enzyme, Coconut-derived Surfactant, and Baking Soda that dissolves blackheads and dead skin cells for more even and brighter skin. Overall, I highly recommend this product to anyone seeking a gentle and effective exfoliation experience.

How to Use :

After wetting your hands, drop a coin-sized amount of powder into your palm and rub until Half of the powder has dissolved. Then, rub your face gently until everything has dissolved and rinse off.

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Best Pore-Care: Isntree Real Mugwort Clay Mask

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Essential oil-free #Fragrance-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free #Cruelty-free

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Willow Bark Extract, Kaolin, Bentonite
• Soothing: Panthenol, Allantoin, Beta-glucan, Oat Kernel Extract

Cautions for Use :

None (All green-level ingredients)

Review:

Out of all the clay masks I’ve used, the Isntree Mugwort clay mask is by far the gentlest exfoliating option. With my dry and sensitive skin, I usually experience a strong pulling sensation when using clay masks, but this product surprised me by not pulling even after leaving it on for 10 minutes. The fine grain particles and creamy texture made it easy to apply and left my skin feeling hydrated. What’s more, I was able to achieve a thorough exfoliation without any irritation thanks to the addition of mugwort and red bean powder. However, it has a bit herbal scent due to the mugwort. Personally, it didn’t bother me, but it may be a factor to consider for those with sensitive noses.

This product is formulated with 6 kinds of different types of clay including mugwort leaf powder. It’s ideal for oily (greasy), rough-textured, and easily-clogged skin types. Especially, it’s made with soft day formula to care for strong sebum to make your skin clean and clear.

How to Use :

After cleansing, apply it onto a dry face avoiding the eye and mouth areas. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.

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Best Sebum-Control: Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask 2X

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Lactic Acid, Kaolin, Bentonite
• Soothing: Green Tea Extract

Cautions for Use :

None (All green level ingredients)

Review:

The texture of this mask leans more towards a balm consistency, yet it applies smoothly and evenly onto the face. After approximately 10 minutes, I noticed less pulling sensation compared to other clay masks, although as someone with dry skin, I did experience a slight pull. The scent is subtle with a slightly earthy aroma, and I found the mask to have a cooling effect upon application. For those with dry skin, it’s recommended to use the mask for less than 10 minutes. While the results may not be immediate, after using it 2-3 times, I noticed a reduction in blackheads. It’s important to note that achieving silky skin takes time and consistency with use, so don’t expect an instant transformation.

How to Use :

After cleansing, apply it onto a dry face avoiding the eye and mouth areas. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.

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I’m FROM MUGWORT MASK 

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free #Cruelty-free

Key Ingredients :

• Brightening: Licorice Root Extract
• Soothing: Centella Asiatica Extract, Allantoin, Panthenol, Green Tea Leaf Water
• Hydrating: Arginine, Glycerin

Although this Korean mask isn’t specifically designed for exfoliation, It does a great job of purifying and calming the skin. It’s a wash-off mask and alongside mugwort essence, It also contains pieces of mugwort that help exfoliate the skin gently. This mask works with all skin types and Is great on days when your skin feels extra sensitive and inflamed, and leaves your skin feeling very soothed and hydrated. 

The star ingredient of the I’m From Mugwort mask is undoubtedly the mugwort plant, which is rich in minerals and vitamins. This potent ingredient makes the wash-off mask effective at addressing acne-prone skin, as it helps to reduce inflammation and redness, providing a soothing effect. Moreover, the mugwort also works to regulate heat caused by UV rays, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin in need of quick relief and recovery. In addition to these benefits, there are several other advantages of using the I’m From Mugwort mask, making it an excellent addition to any skincare routine.

How to Apply :

After washing your face apply an even layer onto skin and leave on for 5-10 minutes. Rinse face with warm water, rub gently to exfoliate then wash off.

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SKINFOOD Egg White Pore Mask 

Ingredient Callouts :

#Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Brightening: Albumin
• Exfoliating: Kaolin, Bentonite, Silica, Malic Acid (AHA), Glycolic Acid (AHA)
• Hydrating: Urea, Panthenol, Olive Oil

Cautions for Use :

Fragrance, PEG, Alcohol

SKINFOOD wash-off clay mask is excellent at absorbing things including sebum and gunk in the pores with Kaolin, Bentonite, and Silica. It could be the solution for oily large pores and rough-textured skin with a detoxifying effect. Not only I saw my skin tone up with Albumin which is the hottest brightening ingredient in Korean skincare and chemical exfoliants like Glycolic Acid (AHA), but it also moisturizing, and non-drying. I didn’t feel tightness, unlike other exfoliators cause it contains calming and hydrating ingredients like Panthenol, Urea, and Olive Oil that do good things for the skin. Especially if it’s dry from the inside, itchy, or prone to skin rashes.

How to Apply :

After cleansing, apply a moderate amount onto entire face avoiding the eye and lip areas and leave on for 5-10 minutes. Wash off with lukewarm water.

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BY WISHTREND MANDALIC ACID 5% Skin Prep Water 

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free #Cruelty-free #Vegan-friendly

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Mandelic Acid
• Brightening: Licorice Root Extract
• Soothing: Beta-Glucan, Panthenol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract

This is a great exfoliator for sensitive oily skin. It contains 5% Mandelic acid which is more gentle compared to other AHAs with a bigger molecular size that is less irritant and promises to fight acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Also, It efficiently increases cellular turnover by removing pore-clogging debris and dead skin cells to promote the growth of new skin cells. The outcomes? Whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples are less common, and pigmentation fades more quickly!

What’s more, It has a high amount of soothing ingredients such as Panthenol, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Centella Asiatica which is a great calming and moisturizing ingredient. By Wishtrend Skin Prep Water doesn’t burn when applied with all green-level ingredients and It does a good job at removing the top layer of dead skin without being overly drying. 

How to Apply :

After cleansing apply an adequate amount directly to skin or for more exfoliation use a cotton pad.

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COSRX BHA BLACKHEAD POWER LIQUID

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Essential Oil-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free #Cruelty-free #Vegan-friendly

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Betaine Salicylate, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract
• Brighting: Niacinamide
• Soothing: Panthenol

This contains 4% of BHA and is a good introductory BHA for oily acne-prone skin. Like most BHA products It’s recommended to start using it once a week and then slowly build up your tolerance. Plus, It contains Niacinamide which is an amazing ingredient for controlling oil, brightening, and hydrating the skin from within. This Korean exfoliator for oily skin is light, easily absorbs into the skin and after using it consistently helps soften the skin’s texture and get rid of any black or whiteheads.

How to Apply :

After cleansing, apply a pump directly to the skin or use a cotton pad or more exfoliation. 

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SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum

Ingredient Callouts :

#Cruelty-free, #Paraben-free, #Fragrance-free, #Sulfate-free

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Glycolic Acid, Malic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Lactobionic Acid
• Brightening: Niacinamide, Turmeric Root Extract, Licorice Root Extract
• Soothing: Centella Asiatica Extract, Green Tea Extract
• Anti-acne: Tea Tree Leaf Water

This Some By Mi serum is excellent for oily acne-prone skin as it’s an effective yet gentle exfoliator and skin cleaner. It brightens the skin tone and makes blemishes lighter with many active ingredients like Niacinamide. At that same time, AHA, BHA, PHA help to remove impurities and dead skin cells while Tea Tree Leaf improves trouble skin mildly and quickly as an antibacterial property to prevent breakouts. If you are suffering from acne, try it and experience the miracle on your skin!

How to Apply :

After toner, shake it to mix well and dispense proper amount from the dropper and apply on cheeks and forehead. Then, gently pat for better absorption.

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Innisfree Pore Clearing Mousse Clay Mask

Ingredient Callouts :

Alcohol

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Walnut Shell Powder, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid
• Sebum Absorption: Volcanic Ash, Kaoline, Bentonite, Silica

This mask contains exfoliating-boost ingredients like Volcanic Ash, Kaoline, Bentonite to help draw out sebum and dirt within our pores. Also, It has AHAs and BHAs such as Walnut Shell Powder, Lactic Acid, and Salicylic Acid to remove the dead skin cells that make the skin smooth and toned up. Although I wouldn’t recommend using a clay mask often, This is a great mousse type exfoliator for oily skin to help detoxify certain areas quickly without leaving the skin overly stripped. It is also easy to wash off and doesn’t leave the skin feeling sensitive.

Cautions for Use :

Alcohol

How to Apply :

After cleansing the skin pump a ping pong ball size into your hand and apply all over the skin or in your congested areas.  Leave on for 15 minutes until its dry then wash off. 

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Haruharu Wonder Centella 3% PHA Gentle Liquid Exfoliating Serum

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free #Cruelty-free

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating:  Gluconolactone (PHA)
• Soothing: Centella Asiatica Extract, Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside

Centella 3% PHA Gentle Liquid Exfoliating Serum is moist, quickly absorbing liquid-type serum from Haruharu Wonder. It has next-generation PHA chemicals that are hypoallergenic, can exfoliate, and clear pores, while Centella helps to lessen skin irritation and soothe your skin.

This gentle exfoliation serum aids in clearing plugged pore pollutants. It contains Vitamin C to brighten your skin, abundant in COSMOS-certified Orange Water. It is formulated with Centella to protect your skin from external stimuli and build the skin barrier. The good news is that it is suitable for every type of skin.

While patented Anti-Sebum also offers pore and sebum treatment for smooth and clear skin, orange water from fresh oranges replenishes your skin with vitamin C to maintain a bright and beautiful complexion. Additionally, the vegan recipe includes Anti-Sebum to minimize shine and Cica extract to calm and support sensitive skin.

How to Use :

Apply a small amount of serum evenly across your face after cleansing and toning. For optimal results, use it three times each week.

Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pads

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating:  Gluconolactone (PHA),  Lactobionic Acid (PHA)
• Hydrating:  Hyaluronic Acid,  Sodium Hyaluronate

The Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Lemon exfoliating pads combine the advantages of both physical and chemical exfoliation into one kind but effective solution.

Using a potent blend of chemical exfoliants, such as lactic acid, glycolic acid, lemon, orange, and papaya extracts, these 30 single-use exfoliating pads unclog blocked pores while utilizing the natural vitamin C’s ability to lighten acne scars and even out skin tone. Through the innovative three-layer pad technique, dead skin cells are also physically removed, exposing a bright, new layer of skin.

Cautions for Use:

Essential oils ( Lavender Oil, Bergamot Fruit Oil, Geranium Flower Oil, Rose Flower Oil)

How to Use :

Gently massage your dry face and neck in circular strokes, working your way up to your forehead using this pad. To gather the remaining dirt, wipe the face with a softer side. Then, use warm water to rinse. Continue with the rest of your skincare regimen. Use as necessary or twice per week.

COSRX Original Clear Pad

Ingredient Callouts :

#Alcohol-free #Fragrance-free #Paraben-free #Sulfate-free #Cruelty-free

Key Ingredients :

• Exfoliating: Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Betaine Salicylate
• Anti-acne: Tea Tree Leaf Oil
• Soothing: Panthenol, Allantoin, Arginine

This is one of the popular Korean skincare products. It’s a great and compact product for traveling because the textured cotton pads are already soaked in essence. It works as both a physical and chemical exfoliator with Willow Bark Water which is a natural BHA ingredient and Betaine Salicylate. I recommend it especially for oily acne-prone skin due to a bunch of anti-acne ingredients. If you are interested in the best-selling products for oily skin from COSRX, head to THIS ARTICLE.

Cautions for Use :

Orange Peel Oil might cause irritation on some sensitive skin.

How to Apply :

After cleansing, take a pad and swipe gently over the face.

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Tips when exfoliating

• It’s crucial to treat your skin gently when physically exfoliating. Use your preferred exfoliating tool or apply scrub with small, circular strokes with your finger.
• Take into account the skin care products you currently use. Your skin may become more sensitive or peel if you use over-the-counter medications.
• Apply any exfoliators you use with delicate, minute, circular strokes. After about 30 seconds, rinse with warm water, not hot. If you use a brush or sponge, make rapid, light strokes. If you have open wounds, cuts, or burned skin, never exfoliate.
• Avoid exfoliators that have abrasive particles regardless of skin type because they can harm your skin. Not all products are created equal when it comes to exfoliating. Many exfoliant-containing scrubs are too harsh for your skin.
• Choose an exfoliating technique that suits your skin type. Your skin type and exfoliation method will determine how frequently you should exfoliate. Avoid over-exfoliating because this can cause red, irritated skin.

Reminders before exfoliating

• If you choose to exfoliate, avoid harming your skin. It can intensify the redness, or start an acne outbreak.
• Your skin type must be considered before choosing an exfoliation technique because not all exfoliation methods are suitable for all skin types.
• Avoid using exfoliators that include baking soda, coarse salt, sugar, beads, nut shells, and other harsh ingredients.
• Start gently and always end with a moisturizer and sunscreen to determine which products and types of exfoliants your skin can withstand.

Reminders after exfoliating

• You often have softer, smoother skin after exfoliation. Follow up with a decent moisturizer suitable for your skin type if you want to keep these effects.
• If you have dry skin, choose a cream moisturizer over a lotion. You should opt for a light, oil-free lotion or gel-based moisturizer if you have a combination of oily skin.
• Although you probably already know how important it is to use sunscreen, it is even more crucial if you have recently exfoliated. 
• It’s recommended to exfoliate during nighttime to avoid sun exposure after exfoliating for the day.
• Your face’s entire outer layer of skin is removed using acids and mechanical exfoliation. The skin that has just been exposed to the sun is highly vulnerable to sunburn. Learn which SPF you ought to apply to your face.

Note: Before applying any new product, perform a small patch test on your arm. Follow the application and removal guidelines provided by the manufacturer. After 24 hours, you can try using it on your face if there is no irritation.

Types of exfoliation

There are two exfoliating techniques. Which method you employ and how frequently you exfoliate should be based on your skin type. 

Physical exfoliating

The first is Physical exfoliation which in the western world is the more well-known method of exfoliation. It includes physical scrubs, brushes, peeling pads, or anything you rub against your skin to get rid of dead skin cells. The most common example are cotton gauze, scrubs, peel masks, etc. Physical exfoliation is a great way to get quick but temporary results.

Which skin type is fit for?

It works best on average for oily skin whose skin turns over at a high rate and is less mild than chemical exfoliation. Avoid this if you have dry or sensitive skin.

Ways to do physical exfoliants

• Powders

Fine particles are used in exfoliating powders to absorb oil and exfoliate dead skin. Combine the powder and water to create a paste that you may apply to your face. 

• Using a dry brush

Dry brushing includes removing dead skin cells with gentle brushes. Use this technique only if your skin is completely free of inflammation or minor wounds.

• Washcloth

Use a soft washcloth to gently wipe away dead skin cells and dry your face after washing it.

Chemical exfoliating

The next is Chemical exfoliation, to most people’s surprise, it’s a much gentler form of exfoliation that penetrates deeper into the skin providing more long-term results. Also, it breaks the bonds that hold skin cells together. Dead skin cells that are still adhered to the top layers of your skin might separate once these ties are dissolved. It reveals healthy skin beneath and makes it possible for other skincare products to absorb more deeply into your skin. It can be a fantastic alternative for skin that has severe clogging or can’t take being physically scrubbed.

Not only does it get rid of dead skin cells it’s known to boost collagen production that helps firm up the skin and reduce wrinkles. The most common chemical exfoliants are AHA’s (this includes glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, etc.) which are great for all skin types and BHA’s (Salicylic acid) which are more suitable for oily skin. 

Note: 

Don’t be scared off by the word “chemical”😅; despite how unsavory it may sound, it only describes how the substances work. There are numerous natural chemical exfoliants available.

Exfoliating Chemical ingredients

Chemical exfoliants come in three main types: AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. Although all acids are corrosive, some are milder and less invasive than others.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

AHAs, which are plant-based substances, help remove dead skin cells from the surface of your face. For dry to normal skin types, they perform well. If you’ve never used AHAs, start with a product that contains only one AHA so you can see how your skin responds to various ones.

• Prevents Acne
• Reduce the appearance of pores
• Creates more evenly textured skin by decreasing signs of sun spots, fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation 

Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs)

BHAs exfoliate dead skin cells from deep within your pores to lessen breakouts. If you frequently get blackheads or whiteheads, this helps. Moreover, it is a fantastic alternative for oily, combination skin, sun spots, or acne scars. Salicylic acid, one of the most well-known BHAs, may be found in various exfoliators.

• Oil-soluble which means it can dissolve sebum deep within the pore that prevents acne/blackheads
• Anti-inflammatory 
• Anti-bacterial

Polyhydroxy acids (PHAs)

AHAs and PHAs function in a similar way. PHA molecules are different. It is less harsh than other chemical exfoliants. PHA, like gluconolactone and lactobionic acid also has extra moisturizing and antioxidant advantages, despite not penetrating as deeply. A PHA exfoliant that is less intrusive is the best option if your skin is sensitive.

Note: 

AHA, BHA, and PHA can be combined, but doing so is not advised and is probably unnecessary. In most cases, one acid is sufficient.

Enzymes

Peels with enzymes often derived from fruits help to exfoliate dead skin cells from your face. Enzyme peels won’t disclose a new layer of skin because they won’t accelerate cellular turnover, unlike AHAs or BHAs. They are, therefore, a particularly appropriate choice for those with sensitive skin.

Korean Exfoliator FAQ

Can everyone exfoliate?

Dead skin cells are removed from the skin’s outer layers during exfoliation. It can have positive effects on your skin with proper execution. However, it’s not for everyone, even if some think this makes their skin seem better. It could cause more harm than good if not done correctly. Exfoliation is typically not advised if skin problems may worsen due to excessive exfoliating.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I EXFOLIATE?

It depends on your skin type, how sensitive it is, and also how strong the product is (most products will have recommendations on the back). For skin that’s very oily, It’s recommended to exfoliate every other day, For people with dry skin once a week and for normal or combination skin 2-3 times a week. 

WHAT IS EXFOLIATION?

Throughout the day our skin is constantly producing more skin cells and discarding our dead ones, this turnover process Is what keeps us looking snatched and youthful. However, unlike a snake who sheds its skin in one go (although that would be fun), humans have a harder time doing so. Exfoliation helps us remove the dead skin cells stuck to the top layer of our skin which in turn creates more evenly textured, smooth, and ‘Pore-less’ looking skin. Also, It can prevent our pores from becoming clogged which is the cause of acne and, can help the other actives in our products penetrate deeper into our skin. 

WHAT PRODUCTS TO USE AFTER EXFOLIATING?

On days you exfoliate, depending on your skin type and experiences its best to avoid products that contain other strong active ingredients and focus on more soothing and moisturizing ingredients. However, everyone’s skin is different and some people can layer more actives than others so listen to your skin.

! Like most active ingredients, AHAs and BHAs can increase your skins sensitivity to the sun so It’s recommended to wear sunscreen during the day. 

Before purchasing, don’t forget to check skincare ingredients on labels and EWG Skin Deep ratings could help you as a reference point. For details, head EWG (Environment Working Group) official website.

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