You’ve seen it everywhere. Seriously. If you’ve spent more than five minutes on skincare social media, you’ve probably seen that elegant, frosted bottle of Beauty of Joseon cleansing oil sitting on a marble countertop. It’s the Ginseng Cleansing Oil, and it’s basically become the poster child for the "glass skin" movement. But honestly? Most viral products are kind of a letdown once you actually get them into your bathroom. I’ve tried enough overhyped balms and oils to know that a pretty aesthetic usually masks a mediocre formula that either stings your eyes or leaves a weird film.
This one is different.
The brand, Beauty of Joseon, draws inspiration from the Gyuhap Chongseo, a 19th-century encyclopedia for women in the Joseon Dynasty. It’s not just marketing fluff; they’re actually leaning into Hanbang, which is traditional Korean herbal medicine. They’ve taken ingredients that have been used for centuries and basically modernized them for people who wear waterproof mascara and long-wear SPF.
What’s Actually Inside the Bottle?
Let’s talk about the base. Most cheap cleansing oils rely heavily on mineral oil or ethylhexyl palmitate. While those aren't inherently "bad," they can feel heavy or greasy. Beauty of Joseon cleansing oil uses Glycine Soja oil—soybean oil—as its primary carrier. Why? Because it’s lightweight but incredibly effective at dissolving sebum. It’s got a fluidity that feels more like water than thick grease.
Then there’s the star: Ginseng seed oil.
Ginseng is a big deal in Korean culture. It’s a powerhouse antioxidant. In this specific formula, it adds a subtle, earthy scent that’s actually quite calming. No artificial fragrances here. Just the raw, herbal smell of the ingredients. It’s worth noting that according to the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Panax ginseng contains ginsenosides that help with skin barrier protection. So, while you're rubbing off your foundation, you're also technically "feeding" your skin.
Micellar technology plays a role here too. The oil acts like a magnet. The lipophilic (oil-loving) part of the micelle grabs the gunk on your face, and the hydrophilic (water-loving) part ensures it all goes down the drain when you rinse. It’s a delicate balance.
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The Double Cleanse Debate
Do you really need to double cleanse? If you’re wearing sunscreen, the answer is a hard yes. Most modern sunscreens are designed to be water-resistant. That’s great for the beach, but it's a nightmare for your pores at 10 PM. A water-based cleanser usually just slides right over those filters. You need an oil to break them down.
I’ve noticed a lot of people skip the emulsification step. This is a mistake. To use the Beauty of Joseon cleansing oil correctly, you apply it to dry skin. Massage it in. Enjoy the slip. Then—and this is the crucial part—add a tiny bit of lukewarm water to your hands and keep massaging. The oil will turn milky. That’s the magic moment where the impurities are lifted. If you just splash water and dry your face, you’re going to have a bad time.
Texture and Feel
It’s thin. Like, surprisingly thin. If you’re used to the thick, gloopy texture of some high-end luxury oils, this might feel "cheap" at first. But once it starts breaking down stubborn liquid lipstick, you realize the viscosity is intentional. It gets into the nooks and crannies around your nose.
Common Misconceptions About Oily Skin
"I have oily skin, I can't use an oil cleanser."
I hear this constantly. It’s actually the opposite. Chemistry 101: like dissolves like. If you have overactive sebaceous glands, using a harsh, stripping foaming wash can actually trigger more oil production because your skin thinks it's dehydrated. Using the Beauty of Joseon cleansing oil helps regulate that. It dissolves the hardened sebum (those annoying little grits) without making your face feel like a desert.
However, a word of caution: if you have a known allergy to soy, this isn't for you. Always check the INCI list. While the brand is generally considered "clean" and safe for sensitive skin, everyone's microbiome is a unique snowflake. Some people find that certain seed oils can be slightly comedogenic for them personally, though soybean oil is generally rated low on that scale.
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Comparison: Oil vs. Balm
Beauty of Joseon also makes the Radiance Cleansing Balm. People often ask which one is better. It really comes down to your lifestyle.
- The Balm: Better for travel (no leaks), feels a bit more "cushiony," contains rice bran water.
- The Oil: More hygienic (pump bottle), easier to spread, slightly more effective at deep pore cleansing.
Personally, I find the oil more efficient for daily use. There’s something annoying about digging into a tub with a tiny spatula when you’re exhausted and just want to go to bed. The pump on the oil bottle is sturdy and doesn't get clogged.
Real-World Performance on Makeup
I tested this against a 24-hour waterproof eyeliner and a matte liquid lip. Most oils require a bit of scrubbing, which is the last thing you want to do to the thin skin around your eyes. With this, it took about 30 seconds of gentle circular motions. Everything melted. No raccoon eyes the next morning.
One thing that really stands out is how it rinses. Some oils leave a film that requires a second wash just to feel "clean." With the Beauty of Joseon cleansing oil, you could almost skip the second cleanse (though I wouldn't recommend it). Your skin feels soft, not slick. It’s that subtle distinction that makes it a repeat purchase for so many people.
Where It Fits in a 2026 Routine
Skincare trends have shifted. We’re moving away from 12-step routines and toward "skin minimalism." But the double cleanse remains a non-negotiable pillar for anyone serious about skin health. This product fits that ethos perfectly because it’s a multi-tasker. It cleanses, protects the barrier, and provides a moment of sensory relaxation.
The price point is also a huge factor. In an economy where luxury cleansers are hitting $60, finding something this sophisticated for under $20 is a win. It’s accessible. You don’t have to "save" it for special occasions. You can use it generously, which is how you’re supposed to use a cleanser anyway.
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Potential Drawbacks
Nothing is perfect. Let’s be real.
- The Scent: If you hate the smell of ginseng (which is earthy/herbal), you might find it off-putting. It doesn't linger, but it’s there.
- The Bottle: Since it’s a thin oil, if you pump too hard, it can splash.
- Availability: Because it’s so popular, it’s often sold out at major retailers like Olive Young or YesStyle. You have to keep an eye on restocks.
The Verdict on Ingredients
Beyond the soybean and ginseng, there’s also Bixa Orellana seed oil and sunflower seed oil. These contribute to the Vitamin E content of the product. Vitamin E is essential for neutralizing free radicals. When you think about the pollution your skin faces in an urban environment, having those antioxidants in your first step is a smart move.
Actionable Steps for Best Results
If you’ve just bought a bottle or are planning to, follow these steps to ensure you aren't wasting your money.
- Dry hands, dry face. Never apply this to wet skin. The water will cause the oil to emulsify before it has a chance to grab the makeup.
- Two pumps is the sweet spot. One pump isn't enough to provide the "slip" needed to avoid tugging your skin. Three is overkill.
- The 60-second rule. Spend a full minute massaging. Focus on the T-zone and the hairline where makeup tends to sit.
- Emulsify thoroughly. Use warm water to turn the oil into a milk. This is the step that prevents breakouts.
- Follow with a water-based cleanser. Use something gentle, like the Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser from the same brand, to remove any microscopic traces of oil and debris.
- Store it away from direct sunlight. Since it contains natural oils and extracts, UV rays can degrade the formula over time. A cool, dark cabinet is best.
The Beauty of Joseon cleansing oil isn't just a TikTok trend. It’s a well-formulated, culturally rooted product that respects the skin barrier while doing the heavy lifting of a professional-grade cleanser. It’s one of the few products that actually deserves the space on your vanity.
Check the batch code on the bottom of your bottle to ensure freshness—most Korean skincare has a shelf life of 30 months unopened, but you should aim to use this within 12 months of opening for maximum potency of the ginseng seed oil. If the oil starts to smell sour or changes color significantly, it’s time to toss it. Freshness matters when you're dealing with high concentrations of natural seed oils.