Welcome to Part 2 of our Best of K-Beauty in 2025 blog series, where we break down the top-selling products in every skincare category – based on what you actually bought, repurchased, and loved.

After oil cleansers, the next essential step in a Korean skincare routine is the water-based cleanser. This step removes sweat, residual oil, and impurities after oil cleansing, and sets the foundation for healthy, balanced skin.

Here are the three best-selling Korean water-based cleansers of 2025 at Skin Cupid.

No.3 – ARENCIA Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser 

A viral hit that proved it wasn’t just hype, ARENCIA’s Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser first gained attention for its unique mochi-like texture, but what really surprised us was its strong repurchase rate. This cleanser delivers a deep cleanse while gently exfoliating, thanks to finely milled rice powder that helps smooth skin texture and remove buildup.

It can also be used as a wash-off mask, making it a versatile addition to your routine. After rinsing, skin feels noticeably smoother and more refined.

Because it has physical exfoliating properties, we don’t recommend using it daily. It’s best suited for normal to resilient skin, rather than very sensitive or reactive types.

Best for: Normal to resilient skin, texture concerns
Use tip: 2–3 times a week, not daily

No.2 – ANUA Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam

Taking second place is ANUA's Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam – a cleanser that’s especially popular with oily and acne-prone skin. This formula focuses on pore purification, combining Salicylic Acid and LHA to help clear congestion, excess sebum, and impurities from deep within the pores.

It leaves the skin feeling clean and refreshed without an overly tight finish, which is why it’s become a staple for those dealing with breakouts or clogged pores.

However, it does contain fragrance, so those with very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin may want to approach with caution.

Best for: Oily, acne-prone, congested skin
Not ideal for: Very sensitive or fragrance-reactive skin

No.1 – BEPLAIN Mung Bean pH-Balanced Cleansing Foam

Taking the top spot as your most-purchased and most-loved water cleanser of 2025 is BEPLAIN’s Mung Bean Cleansing Foam. 

This cleanser is low pH, fragrance-free, and deeply effective without stripping the skin. It removes daily impurities while maintaining the skin barrier, and is enriched with soothing ingredients that calm irritation and support recovery.

Because of its gentle yet effective formulation, it works beautifully for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and even compromised or over-exfoliated skin – making it a true crowd-pleaser across all skin types.

Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive and acne-prone
Why it wins: Effective cleansing with zero barrier damage

How to Choose the Right Water-Based Cleanser

• Choose ARENCIA if you want gentle exfoliation and smoother skin texture a few times a week.
• Go for ANUA if your main concern is clogged pores, excess oil, or breakouts.
• Pick BEPLAIN if you want a daily cleanser that works for virtually everyone – especially if your skin is sensitive or easily irritated.
  
  

This wraps up Part 2 of our Best of K-Beauty in 2025 series. Up next? We’ll be diving into the toners and essences that dominated your routines this year. Stay tuned!