Pure Skin Cleansing Foam
Pure Skin Cleansing Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, honey-enriched Korean foaming cleanser that lifts away dirt, excess sebum, and dead skin cells while nourishing the skin with royal jelly, propolis, centella asiatica, and a 6-grain complex. Leaves skin clean, soft, and hydrated without stripping moisture.
Honey & Royal Jelly Complex
Honey extract (100ppm) combined with royal jelly and propolis delivers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and deep nourishing benefits to the skin while cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYHoney & Royal Jelly Complex
Honey extract (100ppm) combined with royal jelly and propolis delivers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and deep nourishing benefits to the skin while cleansing.
6-Grain Nourishing Blend
Rice, soybean, mung bean, quinoa, oat, and Job's tears extracts provide vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants for a gentle yet thorough cleanse.
Centella Asiatica Soothing
Cica extract calms sensitive and irritated skin, reduces redness, and supports the skin barrier during and after cleansing.
Rich, Dense Lather
A small pea-sized amount whips into a cloud-like, dense foam that effectively lifts dirt, makeup residue, and excess sebum without over-stripping the skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Free from known teratogenic ingredients. Contains fragrance — consult your doctor if you have fragrance sensitivity.
Contains fatty acids (palmitic, stearic, myristic, oleic acid) and sorbitan olivate (an ester) that can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.
As a rinse-off product, comedogenic risk is minimal. Fatty acid surfactants are washed away and do not remain on the skin long enough to clog pores.
Synthetic fragrance is listed among ingredients. May cause irritation in individuals with fragrance sensitivity or very reactive skin. Patch test recommended.
This variant does not contain parabens (methylparaben/propylparaben), sodium lauryl sulfate, or sodium laureth sulfate. Uses gentler surfactant alternatives.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. As a rinse-off cleanser, it does not interact with leave-on actives. Higher pH may temporarily affect skin pH — apply toner after.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHoney Extract 100ppmProven
A natural humectant with antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. Honey draws moisture from the air into the skin, helps soothe inflammation, and contains amino acids, vitamins A, C, and E.
- Antibacterial: Shown to inhibit acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) in multiple studies.
- Humectant: Attracts and retains moisture, supporting skin hydration even in a rinse-off formula.
- Antioxidant: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids that help protect against free radical damage.
Propolis ExtractProven
Also known as "bee glue," propolis has powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Studies show it helps fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi while promoting wound healing.
- Anti-inflammatory: Contains caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) which suppresses inflammatory pathways in the skin.
- Antimicrobial: Effective against a broad spectrum of skin-surface pathogens including acne-causing bacteria.
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
A renowned K-beauty ingredient (CICA) packed with antioxidants, flavonoids, and triterpenoids including madecassoside and asiaticoside. Powerfully soothes irritation and supports skin barrier repair.
- Soothing: Clinically shown to reduce redness and calm inflamed or sensitive skin conditions.
- Barrier support: Stimulates collagen synthesis and helps strengthen the skin's protective barrier.
- Wound healing: Used for centuries in traditional medicine; modern studies confirm accelerated healing.
GlycerinProven
A skin-identical humectant naturally found in the skin. Draws water to the outer layer of skin, supports the lipid barrier in a healthy liquid crystal state, and protects against irritation.
- Hydration: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Barrier repair: Effective from as low as 3% concentration with increasing benefits for dry skin.
6-Grain ComplexPromising
A nourishing blend of rice, soybean, mung bean, quinoa, oat, and Job's tears seed extracts. Each grain contributes vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that help brighten, soften, and protect the skin.
- Oat (Avena Sativa): FDA-recognized skin protectant; clinically proven for soothing eczema-prone and sensitive skin.
- Rice (Oryza Sativa): Contains ferulic acid and gamma-oryzanol; helps brighten and even skin tone.
- Soybean (Glycine Max): Rich in isoflavones with antioxidant properties supporting anti-aging.
Marine Algae ComplexPromising
A blend of seaweed and algae extracts including Undaria Pinnatifida (wakame), Spirulina, Laminaria Japonica (kelp), Gelidium Cartilagineum, and Enteromorpha Compressa providing mineral-rich nourishment.
- Mineral-rich: Contains iodine, zinc, magnesium, and trace minerals that support skin health.
- Antioxidant: Spirulina and wakame are potent sources of antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals.
39 ingredients
Water, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sorbitan Olivate, Cocamide MIPA, Butylene Glycol, Honey Extract (100ppm), Royal Jelly Extract, Propolis Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Undaria Pinnatifida Extract, Spirulina Platensis Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Gelidium Cartilagineum Extract, Enteromorpha Compressa Extract, Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Glycine Max (Soybean) Seed Extract, Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Extract, Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Sodium Chloride, Arachidic Acid, PEG-14M, Isopropanolamine, Oleic Acid, Capric Acid, Silica, Hydroxyacetophenone, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (AM & PM). In the evening, follow an oil-based cleanser to remove sunscreen and makeup first. In the morning, it can be used as a standalone cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Avoid hot water, which can strip skin of natural oils and cause dryness.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto damp palms and rub together to create a rich, dense foam. A little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on the T-zone, chin, and any areas prone to congestion.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and immediately follow with toner to rebalance skin pH.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want an affordable, effective daily foaming cleanser
- You enjoy nourishing, honey-infused skincare
- You need a second-step cleanser for double cleansing
- Your skin is normal, oily, or combination
- You want to remove dirt, sebum, and light makeup
- You appreciate K-beauty formulas with botanical extracts
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You are very sensitive to any fragrance in skincare
- You prefer a low-pH cleanser (this one is alkaline ~pH 8–9)
- You have extremely dry skin that needs a non-foaming cleanser
- You are allergic to bee-derived ingredients (honey, propolis, royal jelly)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESEffectively removes excess sebum and leaves skin feeling clean and mattified without residue. Great for controlling shine.
Cleanses oily T-zone thoroughly while honey and glycerin help prevent dryness on cheeks. Balances well across face zones.
Gentle enough for daily use twice a day. Leaves skin feeling refreshed, soft, and clean without any tightness.
May leave skin slightly tight after use due to foaming agents and higher pH. Always follow with a hydrating toner and rich moisturizer.
Contains centella for soothing, but fragrance may irritate very reactive skin. Patch test first. Some rosacea-prone users report great results.
Propolis and honey offer antibacterial benefits. Low comedogenic risk as a wash-off product. Not suitable for fungal acne specifically.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Cleansing & Softness
Skin feels noticeably clean, soft, and refreshed after the first wash. The rich foam lifts away dirt and sebum effectively. Mild honey scent leaves a pleasant, spa-like experience.
95% noticed immediate clean feelingImproved Skin Texture
With consistent daily use, skin surface begins to feel smoother. Excess oil production appears more balanced. Minor impurities and dullness start to fade as dead skin cells are effectively removed.
78% reported smoother skin textureClearer, Brighter Complexion
Users report a brighter, more even complexion. Centella and propolis help calm existing breakouts and redness. Skin looks healthier and more luminous overall.
65% noticed brighter skin toneLong-Term Skin Health
Continued use supports a well-maintained, balanced complexion. Fewer breakouts and less congestion when used as part of a consistent routine. Best results with proper follow-up skincare.
70% saw reduced breakouts over timeRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable for the quality and ingredient list
- Rich, dense foam from just a small amount — very economical
- Leaves skin feeling squeaky clean, soft, and refreshed
- Nourishing honey, propolis, and centella ingredients
- Paraben-free, SLS-free, cruelty-free formula
- Pleasant, mild honey scent that is not overpowering
- Great for oily and combination skin types
Criticized
- Higher pH (~8–9) which can be drying for some skin types
- Contains fragrance — not ideal for fragrance-sensitive skin
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acids and esters
- Can leave dry skin feeling tight without proper follow-up
- Cannot remove heavy or waterproof makeup on its own
- Honey extract at 100ppm is a low concentration
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESLower pH (5.0–6.0) that is gentler on the skin barrier. Contains BHA (betaine salicylate) and tea tree oil for acne-prone skin. Gel texture instead of creamy foam. No honey or grain complex.
Green tea extract instead of honey for antioxidant benefits. Gentler surfactant system with slightly lower pH. More hydrating texture but less effective at removing excess sebum.
Deep sea water-based formula with lower pH (5.5). Extremely gentle, fragrance-free, and fungal acne safe. Less cleansing power than the Esfolio but much kinder to sensitive and dry skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid extreme heat or freezing.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap lid. Easy to dispense controlled amounts. Hygienic design minimizes contamination.
Yes — 150ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit, but a small amount goes a long way. Consider decanting into a travel container.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cleanser is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the most commonly flagged ingredients by dermatologists for expecting mothers. It does contain fragrance (parfum), which some healthcare providers recommend avoiding out of an abundance of caution. Always consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.
No, this cleanser is not fungal acne safe. It contains several fatty acids (palmitic acid, stearic acid, myristic acid, lauric acid, oleic acid) and sorbitan olivate (an ester), which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider fungal-acne-safe alternatives such as the ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleanser or Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Foam.
Yes. As a rinse-off cleanser, it does not remain on the skin long enough to interact with leave-on actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. However, this cleanser has a higher pH (~8–9), so it is recommended to apply a pH-balancing toner immediately after cleansing before applying your active serums. This helps restore the slightly acidic pH that actives work best at.
This cleanser works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. Its rich foaming action and effective surfactants excel at removing excess sebum and impurities. Users with dry skin may find it slightly drying due to the alkaline pH and should follow with a hydrating toner and moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should patch test first due to the fragrance content, though many users with sensitive and even rosacea-prone skin have reported positive experiences thanks to the centella asiatica extract.
You will feel cleaner, softer skin from the very first use. After 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use, most users notice smoother skin texture and better oil balance. After 3–4 weeks, the combination of honey, propolis, and centella asiatica can contribute to a brighter, more even complexion and reduced breakouts. Keep in mind that a cleanser is a foundational step — pairing it with targeted serums and moisturizers will amplify results.
This foaming cleanser is your water-based (second) cleanser in a Korean double-cleanse routine. In the evening, use an oil-based cleanser or micellar water first to dissolve sunscreen and makeup, then follow with this foam cleanser. In the morning, you can use it as a standalone first step. Always follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
The comedogenic rating is 1 out of 5 (very low risk). While the formula contains fatty acids, these function as surfactants/cleansing agents and are completely rinsed off during use. Since the product is not left on the skin, the risk of pore-clogging is minimal. Users with acne-prone skin have reported no issues with increased breakouts from this cleanser.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, as only a pea-sized amount is needed per wash. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: The Esfolio Pure Skin Cleansing Foam (Honey) is an outstanding budget K-beauty cleanser that delivers surprisingly effective results for its price point. The nourishing blend of honey, propolis, royal jelly, centella asiatica, and a 6-grain complex goes well beyond what you would expect from a sub-$10 cleanser. It excels at removing dirt, sebum, and light makeup with a rich, satisfying foam. The main trade-offs are its higher alkaline pH and the inclusion of fragrance, which makes it less ideal for very dry or fragrance-sensitive skin. Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to fatty acids and esters. For oily, combination, and normal skin types seeking an affordable, nourishing daily cleanser, it offers exceptional value and a genuinely pleasant cleansing experience.
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 |
Palmitic Acid
Fragrance, Opacifying, Sufactant, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|





