Soon Jung 5.5 Foam Cleanser
Soon Jung 5.5 Foam Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, pH 5.5 balanced foam cleanser formulated with Panthenol and Madecassoside for sensitive skin. Only 13 minimal ingredients create a rich, creamy lather that cleanses without stripping moisture, leaving skin calm, soft, and hydrated.
Panthensoside Complex
Patented combination of Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and Madecassoside from Centella Asiatica to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier while cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPanthensoside Complex
Patented combination of Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and Madecassoside from Centella Asiatica to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier while cleansing.
pH 5.5 Mildly Acidic
Matches the skin's natural acid mantle to maintain barrier integrity and prevent moisture loss during cleansing.
Gentle SCI Surfactant
Uses Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, one of the mildest cleansing agents available, derived from coconut. Provides rich foam without disrupting the skin barrier.
Free From 8 Harmful Additives
No PEG surfactants, sulfates, mineral oil, tar coloring, polyacrylamide, imidazolidinyl urea, triethanolamine, or synthetic perfume.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All 13 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The newer tube formula (13 ingredients) uses Coco-Betaine which some databases flag. However, as a rinse-off product with less than 60 seconds of skin contact, the risk is minimal for most users.
The minimalist formula contains no oils, waxes, or heavy emollients. Glycerin (comedogenic rating 0) is the primary humectant. Very unlikely to clog pores.
Passed a primary skin irritation test with a recorded score of 0.00. Also allergen-tested and certified hypoallergenic by dermatological standards.
This gentle cleanser will not interfere with active treatments. Its low pH actually helps prepare skin for acid-based products. Use before applying actives.
Certified vegan by the Korea Vegan Certification Authority. Made with recycled containers. No animal-derived ingredients or animal testing.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Cocoyl Isethionate #2 on listProven
An ultra-gentle, coconut-derived surfactant that creates rich, creamy foam without disrupting the skin barrier. Widely regarded as one of the mildest cleansing agents in cosmetic chemistry, commonly used in syndet (soap-free) bars.
- Source: Derived from coconut fatty acids via isethionic acid
- Benefit: Clinically shown to have minimal impact on transepidermal water loss (TEWL) compared to SLS
- Irritancy: Rated 0 for irritancy potential
Glycerin #3 on listProven
A naturally occurring humectant that draws moisture into the skin. Present in healthy skin as part of the natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Helps counteract any drying effect from cleansing.
- Source: Plant-derived (vegetable glycerin)
- Study: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — will not clog pores
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ActiveProven
A well-studied skin-soothing and barrier-repairing ingredient. Converts to Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the skin, where it promotes hydration, wound healing, and anti-inflammatory protection.
- Benefit: Strengthens skin barrier by promoting lipid synthesis
- Hydration: Acts as a humectant, attracting and binding water to the skin
- Wound Healing: Clinically demonstrated to accelerate skin repair and reduce inflammation
Madecassoside ActiveProven
One of the main bioactive compounds from Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola). Recognized for its wound-healing, skin-soothing, and antioxidant properties. A cornerstone ingredient in the entire Soon Jung line.
- Source: Extracted from Centella Asiatica plant
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and calms irritated, sensitized skin
- Barrier Repair: Supports collagen synthesis and accelerates skin recovery
Coco-Betaine #4 on listProven
A mild, coconut-derived amphoteric surfactant that boosts foam quality while reducing the potential harshness of primary surfactants. Also functions as a viscosity controller for a pleasant texture.
- Function: Co-surfactant, foam booster, and viscosity modifier
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin types
13 ingredients
Water / Aqua / Eau, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Coco-Betaine, Potassium Benzoate, Sodium Chloride, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Citric Acid, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, Madecassoside
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in a double cleanse (PM) or as your only cleanser in the morning. Pairs perfectly with the Soon Jung pH 5.5 Relief Toner as the next step.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and irritate sensitive skin.
Lather the Cleanser
Squeeze a small, pea-sized amount onto damp hands and rub together to create a rich, creamy foam. A little goes a long way.
Gently Massage
Apply the foam to your face using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Avoid the delicate eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all residue is removed. Pat dry with a clean towel — do not rub. Follow with toner immediately.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, easily irritated, or reactive skin
- You want a gentle daily cleanser that won't strip moisture
- You're looking for a minimalist, short ingredient list
- You need a pregnancy-safe or breastfeeding-safe cleanser
- You prefer fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas
- You're recovering from over-exfoliation or a damaged barrier
- You want a second-step cleanser for double cleansing
Consider alternatives if:
- You need heavy makeup removal (use an oil cleanser first)
- You prefer a very deep, squeaky-clean feel after washing
- You want exfoliating acids (BHA/AHA) in your cleanser
- You have severe fungal acne and need a strictly FA-safe formula
- You prefer a gel or micellar water texture over foam
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for sensitive skin. pH 5.5, hypoallergenic, 0.00 irritation score in clinical testing. No fragrance, no harsh surfactants.
Glycerin and Panthenol provide moisture even during cleansing. Leaves skin soft and hydrated with no tight, stripped feeling afterward.
Effectively removes excess oil in the T-zone without drying cheeks. Balanced cleansing that respects different face zones.
Cleanses well without leaving a film. May feel too mild for very oily skin or heavy sebum — consider using a foaming net for more lather.
Non-comedogenic with a low pore-clogging risk. Gentle enough for irritated breakout-prone skin. Does not contain acne-fighting actives, so pair with treatments.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort
Skin feels clean yet hydrated after first use. No tightness, stinging, or dryness. Noticeable softness compared to harsher cleansers.
95% noticedReduced Irritation & Redness
Skin begins to feel calmer with less reactive redness. The gentle pH 5.5 formula helps restore the skin's natural acid mantle and reduce sensitivity.
80% noticedStronger Skin Barrier
Consistent gentle cleansing allows the skin barrier to recover. Less flakiness, less oiliness from dehydration, and an overall healthier-looking complexion.
70% noticedBalanced, Resilient Skin
Long-term users report that their skin tolerance improves and becomes more resilient to environmental stressors. Many describe it as their permanent staple cleanser.
85% noticedRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle — does not strip, dry, or irritate skin
- Minimal ingredient list (only 13 ingredients)
- Rich, creamy foam from a small amount of product
- No fragrance, no burning, no tightness after rinsing
- Affordable price point for K-beauty quality
- Leaves skin feeling soft, hydrated, and calm
- Suitable for rosacea-prone and eczema-prone skin
- Great as a second-step cleanser in double cleansing
Criticized
- Too mild to remove heavy makeup or waterproof sunscreen alone
- Some users with severe eczema report mild stinging
- Not strictly fungal acne safe (debated due to coconut-derived surfactant)
- Very oily skin types may prefer a stronger cleanser
- Tube packaging makes it hard to get out the last bit of product
- No active acne-fighting ingredients (purely gentle cleansing)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Closest ingredient match with shared Centella focus. Also gentle and low-pH, but uses slightly different surfactant system. Very similar performance for sensitive skin.
Community favorite alternative with Centella Asiatica extract. Slightly more ingredients but also targets sensitive, irritated skin. Produces denser foam.
Another sensitive-skin-focused Korean cleanser. Eye-safe formula with panthenol. Slightly richer foam texture but comparable gentleness and moisturizing finish.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid humid bathroom environments for maximum shelf life.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap lid. Simple, hygienic, and easy to dispense. Made with recycled plastic containers.
Yes — 150ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit, but the flexible tube is easy to pack in checked luggage. Decant into a smaller container for carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The Soon Jung 5.5 Foam Cleanser contains no retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. All 13 ingredients are considered safe. It is one of the most recommended gentle cleansers for expectant and nursing mothers.
This is debated. Some ingredient databases flag Coco-Betaine as a potential fungal acne trigger. However, as a rinse-off product that stays on skin for under 60 seconds, the practical risk is very low for most people. The older formulation (22 ingredients) contained additional flagged ingredients like Glycol Distearate and Sorbitan Olivate. If you have severe fungal acne, consider the Etude Soon Jung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser, which is widely considered FA-safe.
Absolutely. This cleanser contains no active exfoliants or retinoids, so it will not interfere with or over-sensitize your skin when paired with active treatments. In fact, its gentle, low-pH formula makes it an ideal cleanser to use before applying potent actives like retinol, vitamin C serums, or AHA/BHA exfoliants. Cleanse first, pat dry, then apply your active product.
It is best suited for sensitive, dry, combination, and normal skin types. It was specifically formulated for easily irritated and reactive skin. People with rosacea, eczema-prone skin, and those recovering from a damaged barrier also report excellent results. Oily skin types can use it comfortably, though some may prefer a slightly stronger cleanser for PM use after heavy sunscreen.
You will feel the difference from the very first use — skin feels softer, calmer, and not tight after washing. Within 1–2 weeks of consistent use, many users report reduced redness and irritation. By 3–4 weeks, your skin barrier should feel noticeably stronger and more balanced. Remember, a cleanser's primary job is to gently clean without causing damage, not to treat specific conditions.
Use it as the second step in your PM double-cleanse routine (after an oil cleanser or micellar water) or as your sole cleanser in the AM. It goes on bare, wet skin before any toner, essence, serum, or moisturizer. The recommended order is: Oil Cleanser (PM) → Soon Jung 5.5 Foam Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM).
No. The Soon Jung 5.5 Foam Cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. It contains no oils, waxes, or heavy emollients. The main humectant is Glycerin, which has a comedogenic rating of 0. As a rinse-off product, even trace amounts of any ingredient are washed away, further reducing any pore-clogging risk.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and freshness. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, as only a small amount is needed per wash. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: The Etude Soon Jung 5.5 Foam Cleanser is a near-perfect gentle cleanser for sensitive and dry skin types. Its minimalist 13-ingredient formula with Panthenol and Madecassoside delivers exactly what it promises: effective cleansing without irritation, stripping, or tightness. The pH 5.5 formulation respects your skin barrier, and the clinical 0.00 irritation score speaks for itself. It loses half a star only because it cannot remove heavy makeup alone and is not strictly fungal acne safe. For anyone seeking a reliable, affordable, everyday cleanser that simply works without aggravating sensitive skin, this is one of the best options in K-beauty.
Browse related
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Surfactant, Hair Conditioning, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|