K-Beauty Glossary
What is First Cleanser?
Oil-based cleansing step
The first cleanser in a double-cleansing routine is always oil-based — a cleansing oil, balm, or micellar water. Its job is to dissolve oil-soluble impurities: sunscreen, makeup, excess sebum, and pollution. The 'like dissolves like' principle means only oil can effectively remove oil-based products. Popular formats include cleansing balms (solid to oil) and cleansing oils (liquid).