Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Oil
Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Oil
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, hydrating cleansing oil infused with Jeju Green Tea extract and amino acids that gently dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without stripping or tightening the skin. Ideal as the first step in a Korean double-cleanse routine.
Jeju Green Tea Water
Sourced from innisfree's USDA organic farm on Jeju Island, packed with antioxidants and 1.67x more theanine amino acids than ordinary green tea for deep hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYJeju Green Tea Water
Sourced from innisfree's USDA organic farm on Jeju Island, packed with antioxidants and 1.67x more theanine amino acids than ordinary green tea for deep hydration.
Amino Acid Complex
Arginine-based amino acids help replenish moisture during cleansing, preventing that tight and stripped feeling many oil cleansers leave behind.
5 Botanical Oil Blend
Green tea seed, apricot kernel, jojoba, rice bran, and sweet almond oils work together to effortlessly dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
Residue-Free Emulsification
Emulsifies into a milky lather with water and rinses completely clean, leaving zero greasy residue. 96% of users agreed it did not overstrip their skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. No ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains isopropyl palmitate, fatty acid-rich botanical oils, esters (coco-caprylate/caprate), and sorbeth-30 tetraoleate, which may feed malassezia yeast.
Despite containing plant oils, jojoba oil has a comedogenicity rating of 0-2 and the formula is designed to be rinsed off, minimizing pore-clogging potential.
Lists Fragrance/Parfum in the INCI. Innisfree states it contains less than 1% synthetic fragrance. May contain linalool and limonene as allergens.
As a first-step oil cleanser that rinses off, it can be safely used alongside retinol, vitamin C, and acid exfoliants in the same routine.
Clinically tested on 30 women for 14 days. 96% agreed it was gentle and non-irritating. Suitable for sensitive skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCamellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf ExtractProven
Innisfree's signature Beauty Green Tea extract, harvested from their USDA organic farm on Jeju Island. Contains 1.67 times more theanine amino acids than regular green tea, delivering rich antioxidant protection and deep hydration.
- Antioxidant: Rich in catechins (EGCG) that neutralize free radicals and protect against environmental damage
- Hydration: Theanine amino acids help skin retain moisture and strengthen the moisture barrier
- Anti-inflammatory: Polyphenols help soothe redness and calm irritated skin
Arginine (Amino Acid)Proven
A naturally occurring amino acid essential for skin health. Used in this formula to provide moisture and prevent the stripping effect common with cleansers. Helps support collagen production and skin repair.
- Moisturizing: Acts as a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) component, helping skin retain water
- Barrier support: Helps strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier during cleansing
- Skin repair: Supports keratin and collagen synthesis for healthier skin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilProven
A non-comedogenic liquid wax ester that closely mimics the skin's own sebum. Helps dissolve oil-based impurities while balancing the skin's natural oil production.
- Sebum-mimicking: Molecular structure similar to human sebum, making it exceptionally well-tolerated
- Non-comedogenic: Comedogenicity rating of 0-2, safe for most acne-prone skin
- Emollient: Softens and smooths skin without leaving a heavy, greasy residue
Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran OilPromising
A lightweight oil rich in vitamins E and B, along with ferulic acid and gamma-oryzanol. Traditionally used in East Asian beauty for brightening and softening the skin.
- Brightening: Contains gamma-oryzanol and ferulic acid, which help even out skin tone
- Nourishing: High in oleic and linoleic fatty acids for balanced skin nourishment
Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel OilPromising
A lightweight emollient oil that helps dissolve makeup and impurities. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E with antioxidant and skin-softening properties.
- Antioxidant: Vitamins A, C, and E help fight free-radical damage
- Emollient: Contains oleic and linoleic fatty acids to soften and smooth skin
23 ingredients
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Decyl Cocoate, C9-12 Alkane, Diisostearyl Malate, Fragrance/Parfum, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Water/Aqua/Eau, Arginine, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Acorus Calamus Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Metaphosphate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your double-cleanse routine (PM). Apply to dry skin before your water-based cleanser. Can also be used AM to gently refresh skin.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense onto Dry Hands
Pump 2-3 times onto dry, clean palms. Ensure your face and hands are completely dry for best oil-to-impurity contact.
Massage onto Dry Face
Gently massage onto dry face using circular motions with your fingertips. Focus on areas with heavy makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum for 30-60 seconds.
Emulsify with Water
Add a small amount of lukewarm water to your face and continue circular motions. The oil will transform into a milky white lather, lifting all dissolved impurities.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water until no milky residue remains. Follow with your favorite foam or gel cleanser to complete the double cleanse.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You wear makeup or sunscreen daily and need a thorough first cleanser
- You want a Korean double-cleanse routine that keeps skin hydrated
- Your skin feels tight and stripped after using other cleansers
- You prefer a lightweight oil texture that emulsifies and rinses clean
- You have normal, dry, or combination skin and value gentle cleansing
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleansing option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula contains triggering esters and oils
- You are highly sensitive to any fragrance or essential oil components
- You prefer a completely fragrance-free cleansing oil
- You want a balm texture instead of a liquid oil
- You need a single-step cleanser (this is designed as step 1 of a double cleanse)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight oil dissolves excess sebum effectively. Emulsifies and rinses clean without greasy residue. Follow with a foam cleanser for best results.
Amino acids and botanical oils hydrate while cleansing. Leaves skin soft and nourished, never tight or stripped. An ideal first cleanser for dry skin.
Balances oily T-zone and dry cheeks beautifully. Dissolves impurities across all zones without over-drying or leaving residue. Brand-recommended skin type.
Dermatologically tested and 96% found it non-irritating. Contains fragrance at under 1%, so patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and rinses clean, but not fungal acne safe. Works for regular acne-prone skin as a first cleanser; avoid if prone to malassezia.
Results timeline
1-3 MONTHSClean, Soft Skin
Makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based impurities dissolve on contact. Skin feels clean and hydrated right after rinsing, with no tight or stripped sensation.
96% noticed non-stripping cleanseImproved Skin Texture
Regular double-cleansing removes buildup from pores. Skin begins to feel smoother and look clearer as surface impurities are consistently removed each evening.
90% felt deeply cleansedBrighter, Healthier Complexion
Consistent use helps maintain a clearer complexion. Green tea antioxidants support skin health over time. Fewer clogged pores and a more balanced moisture level.
93% found effective makeup removalStrengthened Skin Barrier
Gentle, non-stripping cleansing allows the skin barrier to recover. Amino acids support long-term hydration. Skin is less reactive and retains moisture more effectively.
85% reported improved skin balanceRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — 96% agreed it doesn't overstrip skin
- Lightweight texture that emulsifies beautifully and rinses clean
- Five nourishing botanical oils that hydrate while cleansing
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and Clean at Sephora certified
- Pleasant, subtle green tea scent that isn't overpowering
- Affordable price point for a K-beauty cleansing oil ($24 / 150ml)
- Excellent for the Korean double-cleanse method
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe formula
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe — contains multiple malassezia triggers
- Contains fragrance/parfum (under 1%), not suitable for fragrance-free seekers
- Thin, runny consistency may feel like too much product dispensed per pump
- May struggle with very heavy waterproof eye makeup without extra effort
- Only available in one size (150ml)
- Needs to be followed by a second cleanser for full double-cleanse benefits
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar lightweight, runny oil texture that emulsifies and rinses clean. Uses centella asiatica instead of green tea for soothing benefits. Also contains jojoba oil. Slightly less hydrating but great for sensitive skin.
Rice-based formula at nearly half the price. Slightly thicker texture and stronger makeup-removing power. Uses mineral oil as a base (not mineral oil-free). Good budget alternative for non-sensitive skin.
Another K-beauty cleansing oil with botanical extracts at a lower price point. Uses a different oil blend but offers similar gentle, hydrating cleansing. Slightly different green tea variant in the formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the pump cap closed when not in use to prevent oxidation of botanical oils.
Recyclable plastic bottle with pump dispenser. innisfree partners with TerraCycle for a free recycling program for empties.
No — 150ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller travel container for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleansing oil does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula relies on botanical oils and amino acids, all of which are considered safe. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients known to potentially feed malassezia yeast, including isopropyl palmitate, fatty acid-rich botanical oils (apricot kernel, sweet almond, rice bran), coco-caprylate/caprate, and sorbeth-30 tetraoleate. If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, look for a cleansing oil specifically formulated without these trigger ingredients.
Yes. Since this is a rinse-off first cleanser, it does not interact with active ingredients you apply afterward. You can safely use it before applying retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA/BHA exfoliants. In fact, thorough first-step cleansing helps your actives absorb better on clean skin. Just allow the second cleanser to finish before applying actives.
This cleansing oil is formulated for all skin types but performs especially well for dry, combination, and normal skin. The amino acid and botanical oil blend ensures a gentle, non-stripping cleanse that keeps skin hydrated. It's also suitable for sensitive skin (dermatologically tested, 96% found it non-irritating), though those with very reactive skin should patch test due to the light fragrance. For oily skin, it works well but follow with a thorough second cleanser.
You'll notice results immediately — skin feels clean, soft, and hydrated right after the first use without tightness. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent double-cleansing, expect smoother skin texture and fewer clogged pores. After 4-8 weeks, the combination of thorough cleansing and green tea antioxidants supports a brighter, more balanced complexion with a stronger moisture barrier.
This is a first-step cleanser, used at the very beginning of your routine to dissolve oil-based impurities like makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. Apply it to dry skin, massage, emulsify with water, and rinse. Then follow with your water-based second cleanser (like the innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam), toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). It can be used both AM and PM.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. Key oils like jojoba (comedogenicity 0-2) closely mimic the skin's natural sebum and are well-tolerated. Since this is a rinse-off product that emulsifies and washes away completely, the risk of pore clogging is minimal. However, individual skin reactions can vary, so if you are highly acne-prone, introduce it gradually.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. With typical use of 2-3 pumps per application once or twice daily, a 150ml bottle lasts approximately 2-3 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the pump cap closed to preserve the botanical oils. The unopened shelf life is approximately 3 years from the manufacturing date.
Verdict: The innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Oil is a well-formulated, affordable K-beauty first cleanser that excels at gentle, hydrating makeup removal. The blend of five botanical oils and Jeju green tea extract delivers a luxurious cleansing experience without stripping the skin's moisture barrier. It's vegan, cruelty-free, dermatologically tested, and pregnancy safe — checking many boxes for conscious consumers. The lightweight texture, clean rinse, and pleasant green tea scent make it a joy to use daily. The main drawbacks are the presence of fragrance (albeit under 1%) and its unsuitability for fungal acne-prone skin. If you want a reliable, hydrating oil cleanser for your double-cleanse routine at a reasonable price, this is an excellent choice.
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 skin’s 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 «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.
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):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Palmitate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Masking
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 0 |
C9-12 Alkane
Solvent
|
|