Seoul 1988 Cleansing Foam : Pine Cica 1% + Probiotics
Seoul 1988 Cleansing Foam : Pine Cica 1% + Probiotics
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective foam cleanser combining Pine Cica Complex 1% with probiotics (Bifida Ferment Lysate + Lactobacillus) and BHA to deeply cleanse pores while soothing sensitive, acne-prone skin. Leaves skin feeling clean, refreshed, and moisturized without stripping the skin barrier.
Pine Cica Complex 1%
Korean Pine Leaf + Centella Asiatica work synergistically to soothe irritation and strengthen the skin barrier while providing antioxidant protection.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPine Cica Complex 1%
Korean Pine Leaf + Centella Asiatica work synergistically to soothe irritation and strengthen the skin barrier while providing antioxidant protection.
Dual Probiotic Power
Bifida Ferment Lysate + Lactobacillus Ferment help regenerate damaged skin barrier, improve elasticity, and promote a healthier skin microbiome.
BHA Exfoliation
Salicylic Acid gently removes dead skin cells, helps clear blackheads and whiteheads, and keeps pores clean without over-drying.
Non-Stripping Formula
Glycerin-rich formula maintains moisture balance, leaving skin feeling soft and comfortable without tightness after cleansing.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA). ACOG considers topical products with ≤2% salicylic acid acceptable during pregnancy. As a rinse-off product with brief skin contact, risk is minimal. Consult your healthcare provider if concerned.
Contains fermented ingredients (Bifida Ferment Lysate, Lactobacillus Ferment). However, as a rinse-off cleanser with minimal skin contact time, the risk of triggering fungal acne is low. Patch test if you have active fungal acne.
Dermatologist tested for skin irritation. The Pine Cica Complex and probiotics help soothe sensitive skin. Contains no artificial fragrances or harsh sulfates.
Formulated specifically for acne-prone skin. Low comedogenic rating (1/5). BHA helps prevent and treat breakouts while Cica soothes inflammation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPine Cica Complex 1%Proven
A proprietary blend of Korean Pine Leaf Extract (Pinus Densiflora) and Centella Asiatica Extract that works synergistically to calm irritated skin and support barrier function.
- Pine Leaf (100 ppm): Rich in antioxidants, helps protect skin from environmental stressors and promotes healing.
- Centella Asiatica (100 ppm): Contains madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid - proven to stimulate collagen synthesis and enhance wound healing.
Bifida Ferment LysateProven
A probiotic-derived ingredient from Bifidobacterium fermentation that strengthens the skin barrier and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Barrier Repair: 2023 in-vitro study showed effectiveness in improving skin barrier function.
- Anti-Aging: 2022 study confirmed strong antioxidant properties and barrier strengthening effects.
- UV Protection: Research suggests it may help protect against UV-induced damage.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, exfoliate dead skin cells, and help prevent acne formation.
- Pore Cleansing: Oil-soluble, penetrates deeper into pores than AHAs.
- Anti-Acne: Helps clear blackheads, whiteheads, and prevents new breakouts.
- Exfoliation: Removes dead skin cells for smoother texture.
Lactobacillus FermentPromising
A probiotic ingredient that helps strengthen the skin's microbiome and provides additional barrier support.
- Microbiome Balance: Supports healthy skin flora and protects against harmful bacteria.
- Barrier Support: Works synergistically with Bifida Ferment Lysate for enhanced barrier function.
31 ingredients
Water, Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Coco-Betaine, Lauric Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Olivate, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Chloride, Salicylic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Synthetic Beeswax, Disodium EDTA, Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract (100 ppm), Centella Asiatica Extract (100 ppm), Lactobacillus Ferment, Asiatic Acid, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Madecassoside, Bambusa Vulgaris Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Leaf Extract, Thuja Orientalis Extract
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in your double cleanse routine (after oil cleanser) or as a standalone morning cleanser. Pair with the K-Secret Seoul 1988 Cleansing Oil for complete double cleansing.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Start with damp skin. Use lukewarm water to open pores and prepare skin for cleansing.
Dispense Product
Squeeze an appropriate amount (about a nickel-sized dollop) onto your palms and create a lather with water.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face and massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds, focusing on oily/congested areas.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with toner.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone or breakout-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads and whiteheads
- You want a gentle cleanser that doesn't strip moisture
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to harsh cleansers
- You're looking for probiotic skincare benefits
- You want to improve skin texture and minimize pores
- You need a calming cleanser for irritated skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You're allergic to fermented/probiotic ingredients
- You need to avoid all salicylic acid (strict pregnancy concerns)
- You have active fungal acne and are highly sensitive to ferments
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
- You need a heavy-duty makeup remover (use oil cleanser first)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBHA helps control excess sebum production. Thoroughly cleanses pores without over-drying. Perfect for oily skin types.
Non-stripping formula with glycerin maintains moisture. Follow with hydrating toner and moisturizer for best results.
Balances oil in T-zone while being gentle on drier areas. Ideal for combination skin types.
Pine Cica Complex soothes irritation. Dermatologist tested. No harsh sulfates. Patch test recommended.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. BHA clears pores, Cica calms inflammation. Low comedogenic rating.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Freshness
Skin feels clean, refreshed, and comfortable without tightness. Pores appear cleaner after first use.
95% noticed immediate cleansing effectClearer Pores
Blackheads and sebaceous filaments begin to reduce. Skin texture starts improving. Less visible congestion.
78% noticed clearer poresCalmer, Balanced Skin
Reduced breakouts and inflammation. Skin barrier feels stronger. More balanced oil production and improved overall texture.
72% reported fewer breakoutsTransformed Complexion
Consistently clearer skin with minimized pores. Healthier skin barrier. Reduced sensitivity and improved skin resilience.
85% would repurchaseRatings by platform
270+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective cleansing without stripping
- Visible reduction in blackheads and pores
- Soothing and calming for sensitive skin
- Good value for 150ml size
- Dermatologist tested formula
- Unique Pine Cica + Probiotic combination
- No harsh sulfates or artificial fragrances
- Pairs well with other K-Secret products
Criticized
- May feel slightly drying for very dry skin
- Contains ferments (not ideal for all fungal acne sufferers)
- Results take 2-4 weeks to fully appear
- Subtle herbal scent not preferred by all
- Only available in one size
- Not suitable for removing heavy makeup alone
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains BHA for pore care but lacks probiotics and Pine Cica complex. Tea tree oil instead of Centella. Similar gentle, non-stripping feel.
High concentration of Centella Asiatica (84%) for soothing but no BHA or probiotics. pH 5 formula. Great for sensitive skin focus.
Contains Centella and Salicylic Acid like this product. No probiotics or Pine extract. Similar gentle cleansing approach.
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 cap tightly closed after use.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap for easy dispensing and hygienic use
No, 150ml exceeds the 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit. Decant into smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which requires caution during pregnancy. However, ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) considers topical products with 2% or less salicylic acid acceptable during pregnancy. As a rinse-off product with brief skin contact time, the systemic absorption is minimal. During breastfeeding, it's generally considered safe as topical treatments are poorly absorbed and unlikely to pass into breast milk in significant amounts. However, always consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
This product contains fermented ingredients (Bifida Ferment Lysate and Lactobacillus Ferment), which are sometimes flagged as potential triggers for fungal acne. However, Bifida Ferment Lysate is generally considered safe as it's not lipid-based and doesn't feed Malassezia yeast. Additionally, as a rinse-off cleanser with very brief skin contact time, the risk is significantly lower than leave-on products. If you have active fungal acne, perform a patch test first or consult a dermatologist.
Yes, you can use this cleanser with other actives in your routine. Since this is a rinse-off product, the BHA content won't interact negatively with your leave-on serums. However, if you're using strong retinol or multiple acids, consider using this cleanser once daily rather than twice to avoid over-exfoliation. Always apply sunscreen during the day when using BHA products.
This cleanser is excellent for oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. The BHA helps control excess sebum and clear pores, while the Pine Cica Complex and probiotics soothe sensitive and irritated skin. It's also suitable for normal skin. Those with very dry skin may want to follow with a hydrating toner to restore moisture.
You'll notice immediate freshness and cleaner-feeling skin from day one. Visible improvement in pores and blackheads typically occurs within 1-2 weeks. For significant reduction in breakouts and overall texture improvement, expect 3-4 weeks of consistent use. Full benefits including strengthened skin barrier and reduced sensitivity develop over 2+ months of regular use.
Use this as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (after an oil cleanser to remove makeup/sunscreen) or as your primary morning cleanser. Apply to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It pairs perfectly with the K-Secret Seoul 1988 Cleansing Oil for a complete cleansing system.
No, this cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is designed specifically for acne-prone skin and contains BHA (salicylic acid) which actually helps prevent clogged pores. The fatty acids in the formula (myristic acid, palmitic acid) are used as cleansing agents and are thoroughly rinsed off, not left on the skin. It's dermatologist tested and suitable for acne-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the cap tightly closed to maintain product integrity. With twice-daily use, the 150ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months for most users.
Verdict: The K-Secret Seoul 1988 Cleansing Foam stands out in the crowded K-beauty cleanser market with its unique Pine Cica Complex combined with dual probiotics and BHA. It delivers on its promise of deep cleansing without stripping, making it ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin types. The dermatologist-tested formula effectively tackles pores, blackheads, and texture while soothing irritation. While those with fungal acne should patch test first and very dry skin types may need extra moisturizing afterward, this cleanser offers excellent value and efficacy for most users seeking a gentle yet effective daily cleanser.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Palmitic Acid
Fragrance, Opacifying, Sufactant, Emollient
|
|