15 Best Korean Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin

Acne-prone skin requires gentle yet effective care to prevent breakouts, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Korean skincare is known for its innovative formulas and high-quality ingredients that help soothe and treat acne-prone skin without causing irritation. Here’s a curated list of the 15 Best Korean Skincare for Acne– products designed to combat acne and maintain clear skin.

Best Korean Skincare for Acne: Essential Sun Protection

To prevent acne marks from turning into stubborn dark spots that take ages to fade, sun protection is essential. Sun exposure can worsen the appearance of acne scars, making SPF a non-negotiable step in your routine. Fortunately, many Korean sunscreens are formulated with acne-fighting ingredients, offering both protection and skincare benefits.

Additionally, they tend to be lightweight and non-greasy, making them perfect for oily and acne-prone skin.

1.The Purito Soft Touch Sunscreen: A Must-Have for Acne-Prone Skin

Key Benefits of The Purito Soft Touch Sunscreen

✅ Lightweight & Non-Greasy

This sunscreen applies smoothly with a slight dewiness but quickly sets into a comfortable, natural finish—neither too shiny nor overly matte.

✅ Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ Protection

Offers strong UVA/UVB protection to prevent sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging.

✅ Perfect for Acne-Prone & Oily Skin

Formulated with niacinamide and centella asiatica, it helps control oil, soothe inflammation, and reduce redness.

✅ No White Cast

Unlike many sunscreens, the lightweight texture blends seamlessly into all skin tones without leaving a chalky residue.

✅ Fragrance-Free & Sensitive Skin-Friendly

Free from essential oils, artificial fragrances, and harsh chemicals, making it safe for sensitive and reactive skin types.

Reviews from Users

🌟 “Finally, a sunscreen that doesn’t break me out! The formula is super lightweight and perfect for my acne-prone skin.” – Sophia L.

🌟 “I love how it sets on my skin—no greasy feeling, no white cast, just smooth and protected skin all day.” – Jason K.

🌟 “This sunscreen is definitely underrated. It hydrates just enough while keeping my skin matte. A must-have for oily skin!” – Emma T.

2.Skin1004 Hyalu Cica Sun Serum: Hydrating Sun Protection for Sensitive Skin

The Skin1004 Hyalu Cica Sun Serum is a lightweight, hydrating sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum SPF 50+ PA++++ protection while soothing and moisturizing the skin. Formulated with Centella Asiatica and Hyaluronic Acid, this sun serum is perfect for those with sensitive, acne-prone, or dehydrated skin.

Key Benefits:

✅ Broad-Spectrum UV Protection: Shields the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays with SPF 50+ PA++++.
✅ Hydrating Formula: Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, it keeps the skin moisturized throughout the day.
✅ Soothing & Calming: Contains Centella Asiatica extract (Cica) to reduce irritation and redness.
✅ Lightweight & Non-Greasy: Absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a sticky or oily residue.
✅ Great for Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin: Free from artificial fragrances, essential oils, and harsh chemicals.
✅ Dewy, Natural Finish: Leaves the skin looking fresh and healthy without excessive shine.

Reviews & User Experience:

🔹 “This is one of the most comfortable sunscreens I’ve ever used! It feels more like a serum than a sunscreen and leaves my skin hydrated without being greasy.” – ★★★★★

🔹 “Perfect for my sensitive, acne-prone skin. No irritation, no breakouts, and it sits beautifully under makeup.” – ★★★★★

🔹 “The hydration from this sunscreen is amazing! My skin feels plump and protected all day.” – ★★★★☆

3.Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Aqua-Fresh – The Perfect Fit for Oily Skin

Beauty of Joseon is widely known for its elegant, traditional Korean skincare formulations infused with natural ingredients. Their Relief Sun: Aqua-Fresh Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ is a game-changer, offering superior sun protection while being ultra-lightweight and hydrating. Designed especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin, this sunscreen provides a fresh, non-greasy finish, making it perfect for daily wear.

Key Benefits of Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Aqua-Fresh SPF50+

✅ Broad-Spectrum UV Protection – Offers SPF50+ PA++++ to shield skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
✅ Ultra-Lightweight & Fast-Absorbing – Feels weightless on the skin, leaving no white cast or greasy residue.
✅ Hydrating & Soothing – Infused with rice extract and fermented grains, known for their moisture-retaining and brightening properties.
✅ Ideal for Acne-Prone & Sensitive Skin – Formulated with gentle ingredients that won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.
✅ No Harsh Chemicals – Free from oxybenzone, octinoxate, artificial fragrance, and essential oils, making it safe for sensitive skin.
✅ Dewy, Natural Finish – Provides a subtle glow without making the skin look oily.

User Reviews

💬 “This sunscreen is perfect for my oily, acne-prone skin! It absorbs quickly, leaving my skin fresh and hydrated.” – Sophia L.

💬 “I love how it doesn’t leave a white cast, even on my medium-toned skin. It’s super lightweight and feels like a moisturizer!” – Jenna R.

💬 “One of the best sunscreens I’ve tried! It never feels greasy, and my skin looks so healthy throughout the day.” – Michelle K.

4.Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Mineral Sunscreen: A Gentle & Effective Sunscreen for All Skin Types

Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Mineral Sunscreen is a lightweight, non-nano physical sunscreen formulated with skin-loving ingredients to provide broad-spectrum UV protection while nourishing the skin. Enriched with fermented black rice extract and hydrating agents, this sunscreen not only shields the skin from harmful UV rays but also delivers antioxidant benefits for a healthier complexion.

Key Benefits:

✅ 100% Mineral UV Protection: Formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum SPF50+ PA++++ protection without causing irritation.

✅ Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Free from chemical filters, making it ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, and easily irritated skin.

✅ Infused with Fermented Black Rice Extract: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect against environmental damage and promotes skin elasticity.

✅ Non-Greasy & Lightweight: The fast-absorbing formula leaves no white cast and feels comfortable on the skin, making it perfect for daily wear.

✅ Hydrating & Soothing: Contains hyaluronic acid and bamboo extract to keep skin moisturized and calm throughout the day.

✅ Vegan & Cruelty-Free: Made with clean, skin-friendly ingredients without animal testing.

Customer Reviews:

⭐ 4.7/5 – Highly Rated by Skincare Enthusiasts

💬 “This is the best mineral sunscreen I’ve used! It doesn’t leave a white cast and sits beautifully under makeup.” – Mia, Verified Buyer

💬 “Perfect for my sensitive skin! It protects my skin without causing breakouts or irritation.” – Daniel, Verified Buyer

💬 “I love the texture! It blends so well and keeps my skin feeling soft and hydrated all day.” – Sophie, Verified Buyer

5.COSRX Ultra Light Invisible Sunscreen – A Game-Changer for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin

The COSRX Ultra Light Invisible Sunscreen is a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum SPF protection without leaving a white cast. Designed especially for oily and acne-prone skin, this sunscreen absorbs quickly, feels weightless, and offers a natural matte finish.

Key Benefits:

✅ Broad-Spectrum SPF Protection – Shields against harmful UVA and UVB rays to prevent sun damage and premature aging.

✅ Ultra-Lightweight Formula – Feels weightless on the skin, making it perfect for daily wear.

✅ Invisible, No White Cast – Blends seamlessly into all skin tones, leaving no residue.

✅ Non-Greasy & Fast-Absorbing – Ideal for oily and combination skin, providing a smooth, shine-free finish.

✅ Skin-Friendly Ingredients – Infused with soothing and hydrating components to prevent irritation and maintain moisture balance.

Customer Reviews:

⭐ 4.7/5 – Highly Rated by Skincare Enthusiasts!

✔️ “Finally, a sunscreen that doesn’t make me look greasy! This is my go-to for daily sun protection.” – Jenna L.

✔️ “It feels like I have nothing on my skin. Super lightweight and no white cast at all!” – Alex R.

✔️ “As someone with acne-prone skin, I love that this sunscreen doesn’t clog my pores or cause breakouts.” – Mia K.

Best Korean Skincare for Acne: Water-Based Cleansers

Cleansing is one of the most crucial steps in any skincare routine, especially for acne-prone skin. A good water-based cleanser effectively removes dirt, sweat, and any remaining impurities after oil cleansing—without stripping the skin’s moisture. Korean skincare is known for its gentle yet effective formulations, making their water-based cleansers a great choice for acne-prone individuals. Below, we highlight some of the best Korean water-based cleansers for acne and their key benefits.

6.COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

The COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is a cult-favorite in Korean skincare, especially for those with acne-prone and sensitive skin. This gentle yet effective cleanser is designed to balance your skin’s pH level, remove impurities, and keep your skin barrier intact.

🔹 Key Features & Benefits

✅ pH-Balanced Formula (Low pH 5.0-6.0): Helps maintain the skin’s natural protective barrier.
✅ Gentle Cleansing: Effectively removes dirt, oil, and residue without over-drying.
✅ Tea Tree Oil & BHA (Betaine Salicylate): Helps reduce acne, control sebum, and gently exfoliate dead skin cells.
✅ Hydrating & Non-Stripping: Leaves skin feeling fresh, clean, and hydrated instead of tight or dry.
✅ Ideal for All Skin Types: Especially great for oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.

🌟 Customer Reviews

🔸 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Holy Grail Cleanser!
“I’ve been using this for years, and it never fails! My skin feels clean but never dry, and my breakouts have significantly reduced.”

🔸 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Great for Sensitive Skin
“I love how gentle this is. It doesn’t irritate my acne, and my skin looks much calmer after using it. The tea tree scent is strong but refreshing!”

🔸 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Perfect Morning Cleanser
“It removes excess oil without stripping my skin. My face feels so smooth and fresh after using it!”

7. Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Foam

8.iUNIK Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam: A Gentle Cleanser for Acne-Prone Skin

The Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Foam is a powerful, deep-cleansing facial foam designed specifically for acne-prone skin. Formulated with AHA, BHA, and PHA, this cleanser works to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and control excess sebum while soothing irritated skin.

Key Features & Benefits:

Deep Cleansing & Exfoliation: The combination of AHA, BHA, and PHA helps remove dead skin cells, clear out clogged pores, and promote smoother skin.

Acne & Oil Control: Contains tea tree extract (10,000 ppm) to fight acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, and regulate excess oil production.

Hydrating & Non-Drying: Despite its exfoliating properties, this cleanser includes Centella Asiatica to keep the skin calm and hydrated.

Gentle on Sensitive Skin: Free from harsh chemicals, this cleanser is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Balanced pH Formula: With a skin-friendly pH level, it helps maintain a healthy skin barrier while effectively cleansing impurities.

Customer Reviews & Ratings:

4.6/5 – Based on 10,000+ Reviews

Positive Reviews:

“This cleanser has completely transformed my skin! My acne has reduced significantly, and my face feels so much cleaner.”
“It cleans deeply but doesn’t dry out my skin. The tea tree really helps calm breakouts!”
“I love how fresh and soft my skin feels after using this. It doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin at all.”

—make sure to follow up with a moisturizer.”

The iUNIK Centella Bubble Cleansing Foam is a mild yet effective face cleanser specially formulated for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Infused with Centella Asiatica extract, this cleanser soothes irritation while thoroughly removing dirt, excess oil, and impurities without stripping the skin. Its lightweight foamy texture makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a gentle but deep cleanse.

Key Features & Benefits

✅ Centella Asiatica Extract (69%) – Soothes redness and irritation while promoting skin healing.
✅ Soft Bubble Foam Texture – Provides a mild yet effective cleansing experience.
✅ Hypoallergenic & Non-Irritating – Suitable for sensitive skin, free from harsh chemicals.
✅ Controls Sebum Production – Helps regulate oiliness without over-drying.
✅ Maintains Skin’s pH Balance – Keeps skin barrier healthy while cleansing.
✅ Removes Dirt & Impurities – Deeply cleanses clogged pores, preventing breakouts.

User Reviews & Experiences

🔹 Perfect for Acne-Prone Skin
“I’ve struggled with acne for years, and this cleanser has been a game-changer! It cleans my skin without making it feel tight or dry.”

🔹 Lightweight & Refreshing
“The bubbles feel so soft on my skin, and I love how refreshed my face feels after using it. Plus, no breakouts!”

🔹 Soothing & Non-Stripping
“Most cleansers leave my skin irritated, but this one actually calms my redness. Highly recommend!”

9.Etude House Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser

Key Benefits:
✅ Mild, non-irritating formula
✅ Strengthens the skin barrier
✅ Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free

Designed for ultra-sensitive skin, this low-pH whip cleanser ensures that your skin remains hydrated while cleansing. It contains panthenol and madecassoside, both of which help soothe acne-prone skin.

🔹User Review:

“This cleanser is incredibly gentle and doesn’t trigger my acne at all. It makes my skin feel soft and healthy!”

10.Pyunkang Yul Acne Facial Cleanser

Key Benefits:
✅ Herbal extracts to reduce inflammation
✅ Helps regulate sebum production
✅ Suitable for both dry and oily acne-prone skin

This dermatologist-approved Korean cleanser is great for acne-prone skin that needs deep cleansing without over-drying. The botanical ingredients help to calm breakouts and irritation.

🔹User Review:

“A fantastic cleanser that works well for my combination skin. It’s helped reduce the number of breakouts I get!”

Best Korean skincare for acne: Moisturizer

When dealing with acne-prone skin, choosing the right moisturizer is just as important as picking the right cleanser or treatment. Many people with oily and acne-prone skin tend to skip moisturizers, fearing they will clog pores and make breakouts worse. However, the truth is that hydration is key to maintaining a healthy skin barrier and preventing excessive oil production.

Korean skincare offers a variety of lightweight, non-comedogenic, and soothing moisturizers that provide hydration while controlling acne and oiliness. Below are some of the best Korean moisturizers for acne-prone skin that help maintain clear, balanced skin.

11.COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion

The COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion is a game-changer for those with acne-prone, oily, or sensitive skin. Formulated with 70% Birch Sap, this lightweight moisturizer provides deep hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy finish. Designed to soothe irritation and balance moisture levels, this lotion is a must-have for anyone looking to maintain healthy, hydrated skin without the heaviness of traditional creams.

Key Features & Benefits

✅ Oil-Free & Lightweight – Absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky residue.
✅ Hydrating & Soothing – Contains 70% Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice (Birch Sap) to replenish moisture and calm irritation.
✅ Non-Comedogenic – Designed for acne-prone skin, this lotion hydrates without clogging pores.
✅ Strengthens Skin Barrier – Helps improve the skin’s natural moisture barrier, reducing sensitivity and redness.
✅ Perfect for Oily & Combination Skin – Provides hydration while controlling excess sebum production.
✅ Free from Harsh Ingredients – No parabens, artificial fragrances, or drying alcohols, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

User Reviews & Feedback

🔹 Best for Acne-Prone Skin:
“I’ve struggled to find a moisturizer that doesn’t break me out, and this one is perfect. It hydrates without feeling greasy!”

🔹 Lightweight Yet Hydrating:
“I love how fast this absorbs! My skin feels soft and moisturized all day without any oily residue.”

🔹 Calms Irritation:
“This lotion really helps soothe my sensitive skin, especially when I have breakouts. It’s gentle and doesn’t cause any irritation.”

12.Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream

Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream is a highly regarded Korean moisturizer known for its gentle yet effective formula. Developed by the renowned Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic, this cream is designed to provide deep hydration while soothing and strengthening the skin barrier. It’s especially suitable for acne-prone, sensitive, and dehydrated skin due to its minimal yet powerful ingredient list.

Key Features of Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream

✔ Deep Hydration Without Greasiness – Provides long-lasting moisture while maintaining a lightweight feel.
✔ Minimal Ingredients – Free from artificial fragrances, dyes, and unnecessary additives, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
✔ Soothing & Calming – Infused with botanical extracts to reduce irritation and inflammation.
✔ Strengthens the Skin Barrier – Helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the skin balanced.
✔ Non-Comedogenic & Hypoallergenic – Won’t clog pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
✔ Rich Yet Lightweight Texture – Absorbs quickly without feeling heavy or sticky.

User Reviews & Feedback

🔹 Hydrating Without Feeling Heavy – Many users love how this moisturizer deeply hydrates without leaving a greasy finish, making it great for oily and combination skin.

🔹 Soothing for Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin – Those with redness, breakouts, or sensitivity report that this cream helps calm irritation and reduces skin stress.

🔹 Great for Barrier Repair – Some users with damaged skin barriers found that consistent use helped restore their skin’s moisture balance.

🔹 Works Well Under Makeup – The smooth texture makes it an excellent base for foundation or sunscreen, ensuring a non-pilling application.

💬 One user review:
“This is my holy grail moisturizer! It hydrates my acne-prone skin without clogging my pores. My skin feels soft and calm every morning!”

13.Benton Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream: A Powerful Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

Benton Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream is a rich yet lightweight moisturizer designed to heal, hydrate, and soothe acne-prone skin. Packed with snail mucin and bee venom, this cream is known for its ability to repair damaged skin, fade acne scars, and calm irritation. Unlike heavy moisturizers that can clog pores, this formula absorbs quickly, leaving a soft, non-greasy finish.

Key Features

✔ Snail Mucin for Skin Repair – Helps regenerate damaged skin, fade acne scars, and improve skin elasticity.
✔ Bee Venom for Soothing & Anti-Inflammation – Reduces redness, calms irritation, and promotes healing.
✔ Niacinamide for Brightening – Evens out skin tone and helps fade dark spots.
✔ Lightweight Yet Hydrating – Deeply moisturizes without making the skin feel oily or heavy.
✔ Fragrance-Free & Sensitive Skin-Friendly – Free from artificial fragrances and harsh chemicals.
✔ Steam Technology – The cream is blended using a high-temperature steam process, ensuring better absorption and maximum effectiveness.

Reviews & User Experience

🌟 Positive Reviews
✅ “This cream saved my skin! It helped clear up my acne scars and kept my skin hydrated without breaking me out.”
✅ “I love how soothing this feels. It calms my redness instantly and makes my skin super soft.”
✅ “A little goes a long way! It absorbs well, and I wake up with glowing skin every morning.”

⚠ Potential Downsides
❌ Some users with extremely dry skin feel that it’s not moisturizing enough.
❌ Those allergic to bee venom should avoid this product.

How to Use

1️⃣ After cleansing and applying toner/serum, take a small amount and gently pat it into the skin.
2️⃣ Focus on areas with redness, irritation, or acne scars for best results.
3️⃣ Use morning and night as the final step of your skincare routine.

14.Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream

Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream is a lightweight, soothing moisturizer specially formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin. Packed with powerful exfoliating acids and natural ingredients, this cream works to reduce breakouts, refine skin texture, and restore hydration without irritation.

Key Features:

✔ Multi-Acid Formula (AHA, BHA, PHA):

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid): Exfoliates dead skin cells and brightens the skin.
BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid): Helps unclog pores and remove excess sebum.
PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid): Provides gentle exfoliation and hydration.

✔ Centella Asiatica Extract (70%)

Calms redness, reduces irritation, and strengthens the skin barrier.

✔ Tea Tree Leaf Extract (10,000 ppm)

Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to help fight acne and prevent breakouts.

✔ Non-Comedogenic & Hypoallergenic

Free from harsh chemicals, artificial fragrance, and harmful additives, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

✔ Fast-Absorbing & Non-Greasy

Lightweight gel texture that absorbs quickly, leaving a fresh and hydrated finish.

User Reviews:

⭐ 4.5/5 – Highly Rated by Skincare Enthusiasts

💬 “This cream saved my skin! My acne has reduced significantly, and my skin feels much smoother.” – Aisha, Verified Buyer

💬 “I love how lightweight and soothing it is. I have sensitive skin, and this doesn’t cause any irritation!” – Emily, Verified Buyer

💬 “I noticed visible improvements in my skin texture within two weeks. A must-have for acne-prone skin!” – Sarah, Verified Buyer

15.iUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream: A Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer

The iUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream is a popular lightweight moisturizer designed for acne-prone, sensitive, and oily skin types. Infused with Centella Asiatica extract and tea tree leaf water, this gel cream provides intense hydration, calms inflammation, and controls excess oil, making it a go-to product for those struggling with breakouts and redness.

Key Features

✅ Soothing & Calming – Contains Centella Asiatica (70%) and tea tree leaf water (10%), both known for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce redness and irritation.

✅ Lightweight Gel Texture – Absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky residue, making it perfect for oily and combination skin.

✅ Oil-Control & Hydration – Balances moisture levels while keeping the skin matte and fresh throughout the day.

✅ Gentle & Non-Irritating Formula – Free from artificial fragrances, parabens, and other harsh chemicals, making it safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

✅ Anti-Acne & Barrier Strengthening – Helps soothe active breakouts while strengthening the skin barrier, preventing future irritation.

Reviews & Customer Feedback

💬 Highly Rated for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin – Users love how the gel hydrates without clogging pores, making it an ideal choice for acne-prone skin.

💬 Great for Redness & Sensitivity – Many reviewers mention that it calms irritation and reduces redness, especially for those with rosacea or inflamed acne.

💬 Non-Greasy Finish – Unlike heavy creams, this gel leaves the skin feeling fresh and breathable, making it perfect under makeup or sunscreen.

💬 Might Not Be Enough for Dry Skin – Some users with very dry skin feel it’s not moisturizing enough on its own but works well when layered with a thicker cream.