1025 Dokdo Cleansing Milk
1025 Dokdo Cleansing Milk
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, hydrating milk cleanser enriched with Ulleungdo deep sea water, 5 types of ceramides, and triple hyaluronic acid. Effectively removes light makeup, sunscreen, and impurities while strengthening the skin barrier without stripping moisture.
Deep Sea Water from Ulleungdo
Sourced from 5,000 feet below the East Sea, containing 72+ minerals for optimal skin hydration and balance.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Sea Water from Ulleungdo
Sourced from 5,000 feet below the East Sea, containing 72+ minerals for optimal skin hydration and balance.
5-Ceramide Complex
Features Ceramide NP, NS, AP, AS, and EOP to reinforce the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Triple Hyaluronic Acid
Three molecular weights of HA provide multi-layer hydration from surface to deep skin layers.
Gentle Plant-Based Cleansing
Decyl Glucoside derived from coconut provides effective yet non-stripping cleansing action.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Bergamot Oil (photosensitizing) and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (licorice). Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy.
Not safe. Contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Stearic Acid which can feed malassezia yeast.
Contains essential oils (Bergamot, Rosemary, Lavender). Patch test recommended for fragrance-sensitive individuals.
Safe to use with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Gentle formula won't compromise your actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSUlleungdo Deep Sea WaterSignature
Mineral-rich water sourced from deep beneath the East Sea near Dokdo Island. Contains calcium, magnesium, zinc, and 72+ trace minerals that help maintain optimal skin hydration and balance.
- Function: Delivers essential minerals to revitalize and balance skin
- Source: 5,000 feet below the surface near Ulleungdo Island
5-Ceramide ComplexProven
A comprehensive blend of five ceramide types (NP, NS, AP, AS, EOP) that mirror the natural lipids in healthy skin. Works synergistically to repair and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Ceramide NP: Primary barrier support, prevents moisture loss
- Ceramide EOP: Essential for skin integrity, contains linoleic acid
- Research: Studies show ceramides improve barrier function by up to 50%
Triple Hyaluronic AcidProven
Three forms of hyaluronic acid at different molecular weights for comprehensive hydration at multiple skin levels.
- Hyaluronic Acid: High MW for surface hydration and protection
- Hydrolyzed HA: Low MW penetrates deeper for lasting moisture
- Sodium Hyaluronate: Salt form for enhanced stability and absorption
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)Proven
A provitamin that converts to pantothenic acid in the skin. Provides deep moisturization, supports wound healing, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Function: Humectant, skin barrier support, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Shown to reduce irritation from other ingredients
AllantoinProven
A gentle, non-irritating soothing agent that promotes wound healing and cell regeneration. Softens and protects the skin.
- Comedogenicity: 0 - Non-comedogenic
- Irritancy: 0 - Non-irritating
Decyl Glucoside Plant-DerivedGentle
A mild, plant-derived surfactant from coconut and glucose. Provides effective cleansing with great foaming while being exceptionally gentle on skin. Biodegradable and eco-friendly.
- Source: Coconut/palm kernel oil + glucose
- Function: Gentle cleansing without disrupting skin barrier
44 ingredients
Water, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Diisostearyl Malate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Sea Water, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide NS, Ceramide AP, Ceramide AS, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Allantoin, Panthenol, Glyceryl Stearate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glucose, Dipropylene Glycol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Stearic Acid, Tocopherol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Cholesterol, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in double cleansing (PM) or as a standalone gentle cleanser (AM). Follow with a water-based cleanser for thorough cleansing.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense Product
Pump 2-3 pumps of cleansing milk onto dry hands. No need to wet your face first.
Massage onto Dry Skin
Gently massage the milk onto your dry face using circular motions. Focus on areas with makeup or sunscreen.
Emulsify with Water
Add a small amount of lukewarm water to your face and continue massaging. The milk will turn into a milky emulsion.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Follow with your water-based cleanser if double cleansing.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry or dehydrated skin that gets tight after cleansing
- You want to remove light makeup and sunscreen gently
- You prefer a non-foaming, milk-type cleanser
- You want to strengthen your skin barrier while cleansing
- You enjoy the Korean double cleansing method
- You have normal to sensitive skin (non-fungal acne prone)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - contains triggering ingredients
- You're sensitive to essential oils or fragrance
- You need to remove heavy, waterproof makeup
- You prefer a foaming or gel cleanser texture
- You want a completely fragrance-free formula
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all potentially sensitizing ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Milk texture provides hydration while cleansing. Ceramides and HA prevent that tight, stripped feeling.
Great everyday cleanser that maintains skin balance without over-drying or leaving residue.
Works well for the dry zones. May want to follow with foam cleanser in T-zone if very oily.
May feel too rich. Best used as first cleanser followed by a gel or foam cleanser for oily skin.
Gentle formula with soothing ingredients. Note: contains essential oils - patch test if fragrance-sensitive.
Not suitable for fungal acne. For regular acne, the non-stripping formula may help prevent over-drying breakouts.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels soft and hydrated immediately after cleansing. No tightness or dryness. Makeup and sunscreen effectively removed.
95% noticedImproved Hydration
Skin maintains better moisture levels throughout the day. Less need for heavy moisturizers. Skin texture starts improving.
80% noticedBarrier Strengthening
Skin barrier becomes more resilient. Less sensitivity and reactivity. Improved tolerance to active ingredients.
70% noticedLong-Term Benefits
Consistently balanced, hydrated skin. Fewer dry patches. Overall healthier, more radiant complexion from proper cleansing habits.
65% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated, never tight or stripped
- Effective at removing light makeup and sunscreen
- Contains impressive 5-ceramide and triple HA complex
- Gentle enough for daily use, morning and evening
- Clean, simple formula without harsh ingredients
- Nice milky texture that spreads easily
- Part of the beloved Dokdo line with proven results
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe - contains triggering ingredients
- Contains essential oils - not truly fragrance-free
- May not remove heavy, waterproof makeup
- Higher price point compared to other gentle cleansers
- Some find it takes longer to rinse than oil cleansers
- Bergamot oil can be photosensitizing for some
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESGel texture instead of milk. Also low pH and gentle. Contains tea tree and BHA for mild exfoliation. Great for oily skin but may be less hydrating for dry skin.
Whipped foam texture. Completely fragrance-free and designed for ultra-sensitive skin. Contains panthenol and madecassoside. Slightly less hydrating but more suitable for sensitive skin.
Foam cleanser with Centella and witch hazel. pH-balanced at 5.5. Different texture but similarly gentle. Contains fewer ceramides but good for sensitive, combination skin.
Also a milk cleanser with gentle, hydrating formula. Vegan-friendly. Contains yam root extract instead of deep sea water. Good alternative for those avoiding marine ingredients.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap closed tightly after use.
Pump bottle for hygienic dispensing
No - 200ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits. Consider decanting or purchasing travel size.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. While the formula doesn't contain retinoids or salicylic acid, it does include Bergamot Fruit Oil (which can be photosensitizing) and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (licorice extract). Some healthcare providers recommend avoiding licorice derivatives during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use. For a pregnancy-safe alternative, consider the regular Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser (foam) which is fragrance-free.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate (comedogenic rating 2-4), Stearic Acid, and other fatty acid esters that can feed malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider the Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser (foam version), COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, or Etude House Soon Jung Whip Cleanser instead.
Yes! This gentle, pH-balanced cleanser is compatible with all active ingredients. Its non-stripping formula helps maintain skin barrier integrity, which is especially important when using potent actives like retinol or acids. Always apply actives after cleansing on dry skin, and consider buffering with moisturizer if you experience sensitivity.
This cleansing milk is best suited for dry, normal, and dehydrated skin types. Its rich, hydrating formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid prevents the tight, stripped feeling common with other cleansers. Combination skin can also benefit, especially when used as part of double cleansing. Oily skin types may find it too rich and prefer the foam version of the Dokdo Cleanser.
You'll notice immediate benefits - skin feels soft and hydrated right after the first use without any tightness. Improved overall hydration typically appears within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Barrier strengthening effects from the ceramide complex become noticeable after 3-4 weeks. Long-term benefits like reduced sensitivity and more balanced skin develop over 2+ months of regular use.
Use this as the FIRST step in your routine. For double cleansing (recommended for PM): Apply to dry skin, massage, emulsify with water, rinse, then follow with a water-based cleanser. For morning or minimal makeup days: Can be used alone as a gentle standalone cleanser. After cleansing, proceed with toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
This product has a comedogenic rating of 2/5 due to Ethylhexyl Palmitate (rating 2-4) and Stearic Acid (rating 2-3). While it's not highly comedogenic, those with clog-prone skin should patch test first. Since it's a rinse-off product, the risk is lower than leave-on products. If you're acne-prone, the foam version of the Dokdo Cleanser is a safer choice with a lower comedogenic risk.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. With daily use (2-3 pumps per application), the 200ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. The pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene and product integrity throughout use.
Verdict: The Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Milk is an excellent choice for those with dry, dehydrated, or normal skin seeking a gentle yet effective first cleanser. Its impressive formula featuring 5 ceramides, triple hyaluronic acid, and mineral-rich deep sea water delivers on the promise of hydrating while cleansing. However, it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to certain fatty acid ingredients, and the presence of essential oils means it's not truly fragrance-free. For the right skin type, this cleanser helps maintain a healthy, hydrated complexion and makes double cleansing a luxurious experience. If you need a fungal acne-safe or fragrance-free option, consider the regular Dokdo Cleanser (foam) instead.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Decyl Glucoside
Surfactant, Emulsion Stabilising, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
|







