Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Product Description
A gentle, mildly acidic gel cleanser with a skin-friendly pH of 5.0-6.0 that effectively removes impurities, excess sebum, and dead skin cells without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier. Formulated with Tea Tree Oil and natural BHA (Betaine Salicylate) to purify pores and refine skin texture for a fresh, clean start to your day.
โจ Texture & Feel
pH-Balanced Formula
Matches your skin's natural pH (5.0-6.0) to maintain a healthy acid mantle and protect the skin barrier.
Tea Tree Oil
Natural antibacterial and antifungal properties help control excess sebum and calm acne-prone skin.
Gentle BHA Exfoliation
Betaine Salicylate provides mild exfoliation to clear pores without irritation or over-drying.
Non-Stripping Clean
Removes impurities and overnight buildup while preserving your skin's natural moisture.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains only Betaine Salicylate (a gentler BHA) at low concentration. As a wash-off product with minimal skin contact time, it's generally considered safe during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor if concerned.
Contains Saccharomyces Ferment and Polysorbate 20 which may trigger some individuals. However, Tea Tree Oil has antifungal properties that may help. Patch test recommended.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Free from heavy oils and pore-clogging ingredients, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Dermatologist tested and hypoallergenic. Passed primary skin irritation test with no reactions in 100% of subjects after 24, 48, and 72 hours.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ฟ Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia) Proven
A powerful natural antiseptic derived from the leaves of the Australian tea tree. Known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that help control acne and excess oil production.
- Study: Research shows tea tree oil is effective against acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes) and reduces inflammatory lesions.
- Benefits: Controls sebum, reduces breakouts, calms redness, and helps minimize pore appearance.
๐งช Betaine Salicylate Low % Proven
A gentler alternative to salicylic acid derived from sugar beets. This BHA provides mild exfoliation to unclog pores and refine skin texture without the irritation of traditional BHAs.
- Function: Keratolytic agent that helps break down dead skin cells and excess sebum in pores.
- Benefits: Smoother texture, reduced blackheads, improved skin clarity without over-drying.
๐ง Allantoin Proven
A soothing compound naturally found in comfrey plants. Provides calming and moisturizing benefits while promoting skin healing and regeneration.
- Benefits: Soothes irritation, promotes cell regeneration, and helps maintain skin hydration.
- Studies: Widely recognized for wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
๐ธ Botanical Complex Promising
A blend of plant extracts including Lotus (Nelumbo Nucifera), Evening Primrose, Pine, and Elm Root that provide antioxidant protection and soothing benefits.
- Lotus Extract: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Evening Primrose: Rich in fatty acids that support skin barrier function.
- Ulmus Davidiana (Elm) Root: Contains phenolics with anti-inflammatory effects.
25 ingredients
Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Sodium Chloride, Polysorbate 20, Styrax Japonicus Branch/Fruit/Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Saccharomyces Ferment, Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Allantoin, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Betaine Salicylate, Citric Acid, Ethyl Hexanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as a morning cleanser or as a second cleanser after oil cleansing at night. Can also be used as a gentle body wash.
๐ How to Use
Wet Your Face
Start with wet hands and a damp face. For morning use, this is your first step. For evening use, remove makeup with an oil cleanser first.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a pea-to-dime sized amount onto your palm. Add a little water and work into a light foam with your hands.
Massage Gently
Apply to face using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid the eye and mouth area. Focus on oily zones if needed.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all product is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your toner and skincare routine.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want a gentle morning cleanser that won't strip skin
- You're looking for a low pH cleanser to protect your skin barrier
- You prefer minimal, no-fuss formulas with few ingredients
- You want a budget-friendly K-beauty cleanser
- Your skin is sensitive and needs a hypoallergenic option
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a hydrating/creamy cleanser
- You dislike tea tree scent (it has a mild herbal smell)
- You need heavy makeup removal (use oil cleanser first)
- You have confirmed fungal acne and react to ferments
- You prefer a rich, foamy lather (this foams lightly)
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Tea tree oil and BHA help control excess sebum. Leaves skin clean and matte without overdrying or triggering more oil production.
Balances well across different face zones. Cleans oily T-zone effectively while remaining gentle on drier cheeks.
Low comedogenic rating with antibacterial tea tree and pore-clearing BHA. Non-irritating formula won't aggravate breakouts.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested. Passed irritation tests. Some may be sensitive to tea tree oil - patch test first.
May feel slightly drying for very dry skin. Best used in morning only, follow with hydrating toner and moisturizer immediately.
๐ Results Timeline
Clean, Fresh Feeling
Immediately notice skin feels cleaner without tightness. Gentle lather removes overnight oil and impurities effectively.
95% noticed cleaner skinReduced Oiliness
Skin's oil production starts to balance out. Less midday shine, especially in the T-zone. Pores appear less congested.
78% reported less oilinessSmoother Texture
Gentle BHA exfoliation reveals smoother, more refined skin texture. Fewer blackheads and minor breakouts over time.
72% saw texture improvementMaintained Clarity
Consistent use leads to maintained skin clarity and balanced oil production. Skin barrier remains healthy with low pH formula.
85% continued repurchasingโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Excellent low pH formula (5.0-6.0) protects skin barrier
- Gentle enough for daily use without stripping skin
- Great value for money - generous 150ml size at $14
- Effectively removes oil and impurities
- Clean, simple ingredient list with minimal irritants
- Leaves skin feeling clean but not tight
- Tea tree helps with acne and oil control
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested
โ Criticized
- Tea tree scent may be off-putting for some
- Can feel slightly drying for very dry skin types
- Doesn't foam up heavily like some expect
- Cannot remove heavy makeup on its own
- Tube packaging gets messy near the end
- Contains ferments that may trigger some with fungal acne
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Fragrance-free, no tea tree. Even gentler formula ideal for eczema and ultra-sensitive skin. Similar low-irritation profile but less sebum control.
Another Korean low-pH cleanser. More hydrating formula with madecassoside. Better for dry-sensitive skin but less effective for oil control.
Features Centella instead of tea tree. More foam, more hydrating. Good for redness-prone skin but doesn't have the same BHA exfoliation.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
$14.00CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
$16.99Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser
$16.00La Roche-Posay Toleriane Gentle Cleanser
$15.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly sealed after each use. Room temperature (15-25ยฐC) is ideal.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. White opaque plastic protects formula from light degradation.
Yes - 150ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit when in a travel-size option. Regular size (150ml) must go in checked luggage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this cleanser is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While it contains Betaine Salicylate (a gentle BHA), the concentration is very low and it's a wash-off product with minimal skin contact time. Unlike prescription retinoids or high-concentration salicylic acid treatments, this poses minimal risk. However, always consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The cleanser contains Saccharomyces Ferment and Polysorbate 20, which are potential triggers for some people with fungal acne. However, it also contains Tea Tree Oil which has antifungal properties. Since it's a wash-off product, the contact time is minimal. If you have confirmed fungal acne, do a patch test first or consider alternatives like Vanicream Gentle Cleanser.
Yes! Since this is a gentle, wash-off cleanser, it works well with most active ingredients. The low pH actually helps prepare your skin for acid treatments by not disrupting your skin's natural pH. Wait for your skin to dry after cleansing before applying actives. If using strong actives like tretinoin, you may want to use an even gentler cleanser on days your skin feels sensitized.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The tea tree oil helps control sebum while the BHA provides gentle exfoliation. It also works well for normal and sensitive skin. However, those with very dry skin may find it slightly drying and should follow with a hydrating toner immediately, or consider a creamier cleanser.
You'll notice cleaner, fresher skin immediately after first use. Within 2-3 weeks of consistent use, most people report reduced oiliness and a more balanced complexion. After 4-6 weeks, expect improved skin texture and fewer minor breakouts. For best results, use consistently morning and/or night as part of a complete skincare routine.
This cleanser is your first step in the morning routine (or second step at night after oil cleansing to remove makeup/sunscreen). After cleansing, pat dry and immediately follow with toner, then proceed with essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). It can also double as a gentle body wash.
No, this cleanser has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's non-comedogenic and actually helps unclog pores with its gentle BHA content. The formula is free from heavy oils and pore-clogging ingredients, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. It's dermatologist tested and won't contribute to breakouts.
The cleanser has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). Once opened, use within 12 months for best efficacy. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, so you'll likely finish it well before expiration. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Verdict: The COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is a cult-favorite K-beauty cleanser that lives up to its reputation. Its skin-friendly pH of 5.0-6.0 protects your moisture barrier while tea tree oil and BHA work to control oil and gently exfoliate. At just $14 for 150ml, it offers excellent value for a gentle daily cleanser. It's particularly excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The only drawbacks are the tea tree scent (which some find medicinal) and potential drying effect for very dry skin. For most people seeking a simple, effective, no-fuss morning cleanser, this is a reliable workhorse that deserves its bestseller status.
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 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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate
Cleansing, Surfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Chloride
Masking, Viscosity Controlling, Bulking Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|