Best Korean Skincare for Acne 2026: Top Products to Buy Now

Medicube Zero Pore Toner Pads

Discover the Best Korean Skincare for Acne with these dual-textured facial pads designed to exfoliate and refine pores effectively.

If you want to get rid of acne and make your skin feel better, the Medicube Zero Pore Toner Pads are a good option. These dual-textured pads are great for daily use because they have 4.5% AHA lactic acid and 0.45% BHA salicylic acid, which remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. The formula has a calming effect because it contains natural ingredients like white willow bark and botanical extracts. This makes it effective while also being gentle on the skin.

These pads are easy to use in a skincare routine every day. After washing your face, just swipe the embossed side to remove dead skin cells and then the silky side to soothe your skin. The lavender scent is calming and relaxing without being too strong. Many people notice that their skin is less oily and their pores look smaller after using this product regularly. This makes it a good choice for people with acne-prone skin.

Pros:

• Pads with two textures for exfoliating and soothing care
• Has natural AHA and BHA that clean pores well
• The smell of lavender is calming.
• Good for all skin types, even sensitive skin
• Regular use leads to a big drop in sebum and pore waste.
• Easy to use and convenient after cleaning

Disadvantages:

• May be too strong for skin that is very sensitive without first being adjusted
• A single pack may not last long for people who use it every day.

My Suggestion

This product is great for people with oily, acne-prone skin and large pores who want an easy way to exfoliate. It’s easy to use for beginners and works well for people who have been using skincare products for a while. After you buy them, use the pads a few times a week to see how your skin reacts, and then change how often you use them as needed. The calming ingredients and lavender scent will make you feel good about how well your skin is being cared for.

I like how the pads balance exfoliation and calming effects, which makes them comfortable to use every day without causing irritation. It’s a dependable, easy-to-use part of a Korean skincare routine that aims for clear, smooth skin.

Green Plum Cleanser from Beauty of Joseon

One of the best Korean acne treatments for skin that cleans pores deeply while keeping skin’s moisture level stable.

This gel-based facial wash from Beauty of Joseon is good for all skin types and is good at cleaning deep pores and getting rid of blackheads. It gently removes dead skin cells while protecting the skin’s natural barrier by balancing oil and moisture levels. It contains herbal ingredients from the East, such as plum water and mung bean extract.

This cleanser feels refreshing and comfortable on the skin without taking away its natural oils. It always gets rid of dirt and dead skin cells, leaving your skin looking bright. The natural AHA ingredients help the skin shed dead skin cells, which makes it a good choice for people with acne and blackheads.

Pros:

• Cleanses pores deeply and removes blackheads.
• Keeps skin barrier safe by keeping oil and moisture levels in check.
• Contains 24% plum water for abundant hydration
• Safe for all skin types
• Contains natural exfoliants like citric acid and AHA.
• Good as a thoughtful present

Disadvantages:

• People who like foaming cleansers might not like the texture of gel.
• Not widely available outside of some stores

My Honest Opinion

This Korean cleanser is great for anyone who wants a gentle but effective way to deal with acne and blackheads. It is easy to use every day and has natural ingredients that make you feel safe. I find it especially helpful when the seasons change and my skin needs more moisture without feeling heavy.

Use it twice a day in gentle circles to avoid irritation for the best results. It combines traditional and modern skin care needs in a way that works well. The light herbal smell makes your routine more relaxing.

Anua’s 3-Step Glass Skin Set

Best Korean Skincare for Acne gives you a simple, effective way to clean and brighten your skin without harsh chemicals.

The Anua 3-Step Glass Skin Beginner Set is a carefully chosen skincare kit that makes your daily routine easier and works well for acne-prone and combination skin. This set comes with a deep cleansing oil, a gentle foaming wash with Heartleaf extract, and a brightening TXA serum that has Niacinamide and Arbutin in it. These products work together to deeply clean, balance oil, and improve the clarity of the skin. This makes it a good choice for people who are new to Korean skincare or who want a simple routine.

This set works well for everyday use because it removes dirt without stripping the skin, which is important for people with acne-prone skin. The gentle cleanser makes a light foam that feels refreshing but not harsh. The serum, on the other hand, works to even out skin tone over time with regular use. The steps were easy to follow, and the light textures felt good on my skin with or without makeup. They made my skin clearer and smoother without causing any irritation.

Pros:

• A simple three-step routine that is good for beginners
• Double cleansing works well to get rid of makeup and extra oil.
• Heartleaf extract in this gentle cleanser calms skin.
• Brightening serum makes skin tone more even and balanced.
• Made with acne-friendly ingredients like Niacinamide
• Sizes that are small and easy to carry

Disadvantages:

• The serum size (30 ml) might be too small for people who use it every day.
• Set might not work for severe acne or skin problems.
• Doesn’t have a moisturizing step, so you need to use more products.

My Suggestion

This set is perfect for people who want to learn about Korean skincare in a gentle but effective way that focuses on cleaning and brightening skin that is prone to acne. It’s easy to use and has a low risk of irritation, which is good for people with sensitive skin. It doesn’t cover all of your skincare needs, but it works well with a good moisturizer.

To get the best results, I suggest using the cleansing oil and foaming wash every night to get rid of all the dirt and then the serum to slowly make your skin clearer. The light textures and calming ingredients make it a good choice for daily use because it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy.

This set is a great place to start if you want a simple routine that helps your skin look clearer and gives you a glowing finish.

Dr. Althea 345 Soothing Cream

One of the best Korean acne treatments is a daily moisturizer that soothes skin and helps it heal from blemishes.

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The Dr.Althea 345 Relief Cream is a Korean vegan face moisturizer designed for daily use to soothe and help recover skin affected by acne and blemishes. It features a blend of niacinamide, plant extracts, ceramide, and hyaluronic acid that work together to reduce dark spots, nourish the skin, and calm redness. Suitable for all skin types, it is particularly formulated to be gentle and non-comedogenic, making it a dependable option for those dealing with acne-prone skin.

In everyday use, this cream offers a smooth, non-greasy texture that absorbs well without feeling heavy or sticky. I found it reliable for maintaining moisture and calming irritated areas, especially after acne flare-ups. Its calming ingredients like tea tree water and madecassoside provide consistent soothing effects, making it a comforting addition to a post-acne skincare routine. The vegan certification and absence of artificial additives add peace of mind for ethical skincare users.

Pros:

• Contains multiple blemish-relieving ingredients including niacinamide and plant extracts
• Hydrates deeply with ceramide NP and hyaluronic acid
• Soothes sensitive, red, and irritated skin effectively
• Non-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin
• Vegan-certified and free from artificial colors, fragrances, and parabens
• Lightweight, non-greasy texture with a silky finish
• Suitable for all skin types

Cons:

• Smaller size may require frequent repurchasing for daily use
• Price point may be higher compared to some basic moisturizers

My Honest Take

This cream is well suited for anyone looking for gentle, effective acne and blemish care with added soothing benefits. It’s especially good for those who want a multi-functional product that hydrates, calms, and helps even out skin tone without clogging pores. Beginners will find it easy to incorporate, while more experienced skincare users will appreciate its clean, vegan formulation.

After purchasing, you can expect consistent hydration and calming effects that support skin recovery. My practical tip is to apply it after cleansing and toning, especially on red or inflamed areas, to maximize soothing benefits. The absence of harsh additives makes it a safe choice for sensitive skin types as well.

Overall, it fits well into a calm and straightforward skincare routine focused on acne recovery and daily moisture balance.

Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner

One of the best Korean skincare options for acne-prone skin, offering hydration and barrier support without clogging pores.

The Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner is a lightweight, hydrating toner formulated with rice water, niacinamide, and ceramides to help improve skin texture and support the skin’s moisture barrier. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types, especially those prone to acne and oiliness. This toner aims to deliver a fresh, glass-like finish while addressing dullness and irritation.

In everyday use, this toner feels gentle and soothing on the skin, providing consistent moisture without heaviness or stickiness. I found it easy to layer under other products, and it helped balance excess sebum throughout the day. Its calming ingredients make it reliable for sensitive skin, and it keeps the skin comfortable without causing breakouts or clogging pores.

Pros:

• Lightweight, non-sticky formula suitable for daily use
• Supports and strengthens skin barrier with ceramide-protein blend
• Balances excess oil and sebum to reduce breakouts
• Fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin
• Contains soothing ingredients like panthenol and allantoin
• Delivers radiant, glass-like skin appearance

Cons:

• May not provide enough moisture for very dry skin types
• Limited size options (only 8.45 fl oz)
• No visible anti-aging ingredients

My Recommendation

This toner is ideal for anyone dealing with oily or acne-prone skin looking for a gentle but effective hydrating step in their routine. It’s beginner-friendly thanks to its simple, soothing formula and fragrance-free composition. After purchase, I recommend using it morning and night to keep your skin balanced and comfortable.

It’s a solid choice if you want to combine hydration with sebum control without overloading your skin. The lightweight texture means it layers well, so it fits easily into most skincare routines. You get peace of mind knowing it’s non-comedogenic and designed to support the skin barrier, which is important for acne-prone skin.

Medicube Zero Pore Capsule Cleanser

One of the best Korean skincare options for acne, this cleanser focuses on gentle yet effective pore and blackhead care.

The medicube Zero Pore Capsule Cleanser is a daily gentle foam cleanser designed to improve skin texture and target blackheads and pores. It features a unique blue capsule formula enriched with Cica Exosome and natural BHA to soften excess sebum and exfoliate dead skin cells. Its blend of AHA, BHA, and PHA offers a balanced exfoliation that refines rough skin and controls oil without irritation.

In everyday use, this cleanser performs reliably by deeply cleansing while maintaining skin hydration thanks to amino acid-based cleansing agents. It feels comfortable on the skin without causing tightness, making it easy to incorporate into any skincare routine. Its dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic formula suits all skin types, especially those prone to oily and acne-prone skin.

Pros:

• Effective combination of AHA, BHA, and PHA for gentle exfoliation
• Blue capsules target blackheads and pore care specifically
• Hydrating formula that prevents dryness after cleansing
• Suitable for daily use on all skin types
• Non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested
• Part of a 2-step double cleansing routine for oily skin

Cons:

• May require the complementary cleansing oil for full makeup removal
• Price point might be higher compared to basic cleansers
• Not widely available in physical stores outside Korea

My Honest Take

This cleanser is ideal for anyone struggling with acne, blackheads, or uneven skin texture looking for a gentle yet effective Korean skincare product. It’s beginner-friendly due to its mild formulation but also appeals to experienced users who appreciate multi-acid exfoliation. After purchasing, I found the product easy to use daily without irritation or dryness, which is reassuring for sensitive skin types.

A practical tip is to follow the recommended two-step cleansing routine with the matching cleansing oil for the best results, especially if you wear makeup regularly. The balanced hydration and exfoliation make it a dependable choice for maintaining clearer skin without over-stripping.

Personally, I like how it refreshes my skin while tackling pore issues, making it a solid addition to any acne-focused skincare lineup.

Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Cleansing Foam

One of the best Korean skincare options for acne-prone skin, focusing on deep pore cleansing and soothing care.

This cleansing foam from ANUA is designed to deeply cleanse pores while maintaining skin hydration. It features Heartleaf extract and Quercetinol, known for soothing irritated skin, and includes gentle exfoliating properties thanks to BHA. The formula creates a soft, dense foam that effectively removes excess sebum and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture.

In everyday use, this face wash feels gentle and comfortable on the skin. It works well as the first step in a double cleansing routine, easily removing makeup and grime. The rich lather and calming ingredients make it suitable for oily or combination skin types seeking consistent pore refinement and hydration without dryness.

Pros:

• Effectively cleanses pores without over-drying
• Contains soothing Heartleaf extract and Quercetinol
• Gentle exfoliation improves skin texture
• Rich, dense foam creates a pleasant cleansing experience
• Ideal for oily and combination skin
• Supports double cleansing routines

Cons:

• Smaller bottle size may require frequent repurchasing
• Limited availability outside online stores

My Practical Opinion

This cleansing foam suits anyone looking for a gentle yet effective Korean skincare product to manage acne-prone or oily skin. It’s straightforward to use daily and fits well whether you’re new to double cleansing or have an established routine. Just remember to follow up with a moisturizer to lock in hydration after cleansing.

The calming properties of heartleaf make it a good pick if your skin is sensitive or stressed, providing peace of mind during your skincare routine. I appreciate its balance of thorough cleansing and softness, making it a dependable part of my skincare regimen.

Anua Heartleaf Cleansing Oil

One of the best Korean skincare options for acne-prone skin, this gentle cleansing oil targets blackheads and pore congestion effectively.

The Anua Heartleaf Cleansing Oil is a mild yet effective oil cleanser designed to remove makeup, blackheads, and excess sebum. Its formula includes soothing Heartleaf extract, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types. This product fits well into a double cleansing routine, helping to prevent pore congestion and promote a clear, glowing complexion.

In everyday use, this cleansing oil feels gentle on the skin and around the eyes, with no stinging or irritation. It emulsifies nicely with water, allowing for thorough removal of impurities without leaving a greasy residue. It’s reliable, easy to use, and consistent, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to maintain clear skin while keeping their routine simple.

Pros:

• Gentle yet effective at removing makeup and blackheads
• Contains soothing Heartleaf extract for calming skin
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone
• Non-irritating around the eyes, no stinging
• Supports a thorough double cleansing routine
• Light texture that emulsifies well with water

Cons:

• Does not come with a pump dispenser
• May require a follow-up cleanser for oily skin types

My Honest Take

This cleansing oil is ideal for those who want a gentle but reliable product that won’t aggravate acne-prone or sensitive skin. It’s straightforward to incorporate into your skincare routine, especially if you’re already familiar with double cleansing. Beginners will appreciate its mild formula and soothing ingredients, while experienced users will value its effectiveness without irritation.

One tip: gently massage for about 1-2 minutes before emulsifying with water to ensure you remove all makeup and sebum properly. It offers peace of mind knowing it’s hypoallergenic and cruelty-free tested, so you can trust it’s safe for daily use.

Overall, it’s a practical, no-fuss cleansing oil that balances cleansing power with skin comfort.

Medicube Pink Peptide Serum

This product stands out as one of the Best Korean Skincare for Acne options, particularly designed to improve skin hydration and even tone while addressing breakouts.

The medicube Pink Peptide Serum is a Korean facial serum that combines Salmon DNA PDRN with a peptide complex and niacinamide to support skin hydration, elasticity, and uneven tone care. It is designed to give skin a natural glow while helping to prevent future breakouts, making it a thoughtful choice for anyone looking to maintain clearer, firmer skin.

In daily use, this serum feels light and gentle on the skin, suitable for all skin types. Its mild formula absorbs easily without irritation, and the hydration it provides helps strengthen the skin’s barrier against environmental stressors. I found it consistent and comfortable to incorporate into my routine without worrying about harsh reactions.

Pros:

• Contains Salmon DNA PDRN for skin renewal and repair
• Includes peptides and niacinamide for elasticity and tone improvement
• Mild, dermatologist-tested formula suitable for sensitive skin
• Light texture that absorbs quickly without residue
• Provides long-lasting hydration and barrier support
• Helps prevent future acne breakouts
• Free from gluten and artificial colors

Cons:

• Relatively small bottle size (1.01 fl. oz)
• No immediate visible results; consistent use needed
• Price point may be higher than some drugstore alternatives

My Recommendation

This serum is ideal for those who want a gentle yet effective product that supports skin hydration and helps manage acne-prone skin without irritation. Beginners will appreciate its mild formula, while experienced users will value the targeted ingredients like Salmon DNA and peptides. I recommend applying it after cleansing and toning, allowing it to absorb fully before moisturizing to maximize benefits.

It’s a reassuring option if you want to add a Korean skincare serum to your routine with peace of mind regarding sensitivity. Personally, I find its lightweight feel and subtle glow enhancement a nice daily boost without heaviness.

Arencia Rice Mochi Face Cleanser

Discover one of the Best Korean Skincare for Acne solutions that gently cleanses and soothes acne-prone skin without harsh irritation.

The Arencia Rice Mochi Face Cleanser is a gentle, exfoliating face wash designed for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It combines the benefits of rice water and green tea to deeply cleanse pores while moisturizing and minimizing blackheads. This cleanser uses a unique artisanal recipe with 34 natural extracts, avoiding harsh chemicals and stripped moisture.

In everyday use, it performs consistently well by removing excess oil and impurities without causing dryness or irritation. The formula is mild enough for sensitive skin types and comfortable enough for regular use, making it a dependable choice for those managing acne and skin sensitivity.

Pros:

• Gentle exfoliation without damaging moisture barrier
• Contains 34 natural extracts for skin protection
• Effective in deep cleansing oily and acne-prone skin
• Hypoallergenic and non-irritating, suitable for all skin types
• Helps defend against multiple signs of skin sensitivity
• Multi-functional as both face wash and gentle scrub
• Compact size convenient for travel

Cons:

• Relatively small bottle size may require frequent repurchase
• No specific price information available upfront

My Honest Take

This cleanser is ideal for anyone with sensitive or acne-prone skin looking for a gentle but effective daily wash. It’s easy to incorporate into any skincare routine, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. I recommend using it consistently to see the best results, and you can feel confident that it won’t aggravate your skin.

Because it’s free from harsh ingredients and tested for irritation, it offers peace of mind alongside reliable cleansing. Personally, I appreciate how it balances exfoliation and hydration without any tight or dry feeling afterward.