Bellflower Cleansing Balm
Bellflower Cleansing Balm
Product Description
A sherbet-like first-cleanse balm from Hwarang' that melts at body temperature to dissolve makeup, SPF, and daily grime, then emulsifies cleanly with water. Built around soothing guaiazulene, saponin-rich bellflower (Platycodon) root extract, and panthenol, it leaves skin soft and comfortable rather than tight โ and it's vegan, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic.
โจ Texture & Feel
Soothing Guaiazulene
A blue compound from chamomile oil gives the balm its violet hue and calms irritation while supporting the skin barrier.
Hanbang Bellflower
Saponin-rich Platycodon root extract, a traditional Korean botanical valued for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Panthenol (B5)
Pro-vitamin B5 humectant that hydrates, soothes, and helps skin feel supple rather than stripped after cleansing.
Rinses Clean
Emulsifies fully with lukewarm water to lift waterproof makeup and SPF without leaving an oily residue.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters. Generally considered low-risk, but confirm with your doctor.
Not fungal-acne safe. Several esters, PEGs, and Sorbitan Sesquioleate can feed Malassezia, though it rinses off rather than staying on skin.
As a rinse-off first cleanse, it pairs with any actives that follow โ retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, niacinamide.
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic with calming guaiazulene. Patch test recommended if your skin reacts to esters.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ Guaiazulene Low % Promising
The deep-blue azulene derived from chamomile oil that gives this balm its signature violet color. Valued in skincare for calming and antibacterial properties.
- Source: Listed in skincare references as an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent that helps soothe irritation.
- Function: Helps reduce the look of redness and supports the skin's protective barrier, making it suitable for reactive skin.
๐ธ Platycodon Grandiflorus (Bellflower) Root Extract Low % Promising
The hero hanbang botanical. Bellflower root is rich in saponins and has a long history in Korean traditional care.
- Source: Classified by ingredient databases as an antioxidant; brand and retailer sources cite anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits from its saponin content.
- Function: Adds antioxidant support to a primarily cleansing formula.
๐ง Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Low % Proven
A widely studied humectant and skin-conditioning agent that hydrates and soothes, helping skin feel comfortable after cleansing.
- Source: Documented as a humectant that binds water to keep skin hydrated and supports wound healing by encouraging tissue repair.
- Function: Counteracts the tight, dry feeling that harsher cleansers can leave behind.
๐ก๏ธ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) Low % Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects against free radicals and helps maintain a healthy lipid barrier.
- Source: Described as an antioxidant that strengthens the skin barrier and offers limited support against UVB-related damage (not a sunscreen substitute).
- Function: Helps keep the oil phase of the balm stable while supporting skin lipids.
22 ingredients
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Synthetic Wax, PEG-10 Isostearate, Guaiazulene, Platycodon Grandiflorus Root Extract, Panthenol, Tocopherol, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Water, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Brassica Oleracea Capitata Leaf Extract, Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, Viola Mandshurica Flower Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pantolactone.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
This is your first step in a double-cleanse, used in the evening on dry skin before a water-based cleanser. It dissolves makeup and SPF so your follow-up cleanser and actives can work on clean skin.
๐ How to Use
Apply to Dry Skin
Scoop a coin-sized amount with the spatula and warm it between dry fingertips. Apply to a dry face โ water at this stage stops the balm from binding to makeup.
Massage to Melt
Massage in gentle circles for 30โ60 seconds. The balm melts into a silky oil that loosens makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Great for a short facial or gua sha massage.
Emulsify & Rinse
Wet your hands and keep massaging until the balm turns milky, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Use a little extra for stubborn waterproof mascara.
Follow With a Second Cleanse
Finish with a water-based cleanser to complete the double cleanse, then continue with your toner, treatments, and moisturizer.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You wear makeup, SPF, or waterproof mascara and want an easy first cleanse
- You have sensitive or reactive skin and prefer fragrance-free formulas
- Your skin feels tight or stripped after foam or oil cleansers
- You like a calming, soothing cleanse with guaiazulene
- You want a vegan, cruelty-free K-beauty option
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You're following a strict fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe routine
- You want a leave-on treatment rather than a rinse-off cleanser
- You dislike balm textures or prefer a micellar water
- You react to ester-rich oil cleansers
- You want a fragranced, spa-like sensory experience
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Rinses clean without a greasy film, but always follow with a second cleanse to keep pores clear.
Nourishing oils plus panthenol leave skin soft and comfortable rather than tight or dry.
Removes buildup across the T-zone while keeping drier areas balanced and hydrated.
Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and soothed by guaiazulene โ patch test if highly reactive.
Marketed non-comedogenic and rinse-off, but not ideal for those avoiding Malassezia-feeding esters.
๐ Results Timeline
Clean, Comfortable Skin
Makeup, SPF, and even waterproof mascara lift away in one or two passes; skin feels soft and not stripped right after rinsing.
90% noticedSmoother Cleansing Routine
Reviewers report fewer clogged-feeling pores and less residue when used as a consistent first cleanse, plus a calmer post-cleanse feel.
75% noticedBalanced, Less Reactive Skin
With regular gentle cleansing, many users find the skin barrier feels more comfortable and less prone to dryness from harsher cleansers.
60% noticedโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Removes makeup, SPF, and waterproof mascara easily
- Lightweight sherbet texture melts fast and rinses clean
- Fragrance-free and soothing โ good for sensitive skin
- Leaves skin soft, not tight or stripped
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and EU safety-registered
โ Criticized
- Not fungal-acne (Malassezia) safe
- Needs more product for heavy waterproof makeup
- Botanical benefits are limited in a rinse-off format
- Color of the balm varies between batches
- Pricier than some classic K-beauty balms
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The classic K-beauty sherbet balm with a very similar melt-and-rinse experience. Lightly fragranced and not fungal-acne safe, but a proven, affordable everyday option.
Rice- and grain-oil based balm with a similar gentle, nourishing cleanse. Skews more hydrating/glow-focused versus the soothing, bellflower angle here.
The cheapest melt-away balm of the group. Effective on light makeup but less elegant texture and lightly scented, so less suited to sensitive skin.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Hwarang' Bellflower Cleansing Balm (Featured)
~$25Banila Co Clean It Zero Original
~$18Heimish All Clean Balm
~$25Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm
~$18๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening (check the jar symbol on your batch)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the lid closed
Purple tub with included spatula (use the spatula to keep the balm hygienic)
Yes โ solid balm, well under 100 ml liquid limits; a 30 ml mini is also available
โ Frequently Asked Questions
It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical UV filters โ the ingredients most often flagged during pregnancy โ so it's generally considered a low-risk, gentle cleanser. As always, check with your doctor or midwife about your full routine if you're pregnant or nursing.
No. The formula includes several esters and PEG ingredients (such as PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PEG-10 Isostearate, Synthetic Wax, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, and Moringa Seed Oil) that can feed Malassezia. Because it's a rinse-off product, contact time is short, but those on a strict fungal-acne-safe routine may prefer an alternative first cleanser.
Yes. As a rinse-off first cleanse, it's washed away before your treatment steps, so it won't interfere with retinol, vitamin C, or exfoliating acids. Cleansing first actually helps those actives absorb into clean skin.
It's formulated for all skin types and is especially well-suited to dry, combination, and sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, soothing, non-stripping formula. Oily and acne-prone skin can use it too, provided you always follow with a second cleanse.
Cleansing results are immediate โ makeup and SPF lift away on the first use and skin feels soft, not tight. Over a couple of weeks of consistent use as a first cleanse, many people notice a calmer, less congested complexion.
It's your first step in an evening double cleanse. Use it on dry skin before your water-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, then continue with toner, serums, and moisturizer.
The brand markets it as non-comedogenic, and we'd rate it around 2 out of 5 based on its oils and esters. Because it's designed to be massaged on and then rinsed off (ideally followed by a second cleanse), it's unlikely to clog pores for most people.
Around 12 months after opening. Use the included spatula rather than your fingers to keep the balm clean, and store it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: Hwarang's Bellflower Cleansing Balm is a standout gentle first cleanse โ a fragrance-free, vegan, sherbet-textured balm that melts away makeup and SPF while soothing skin with guaiazulene, bellflower root, and panthenol. It's an easy recommendation for sensitive, dry, and combination skin that wants a comfortable, non-stripping cleanse. The main caveats are that it isn't fungal-acne safe and the botanical "skincare" benefits are modest in a rinse-off format. For everyone else, it's a thoughtfully formulated, well-reviewed K-beauty cleanser that earns its place as step one of the routine.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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 ยซpromisesยป 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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
|
Ache-fighting
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Synthetic Wax
Masking, Emollient, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-10 Isostearate
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|