Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil vs SKIN1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil: Which Is Better?
Two popular Korean oil cleansers, compared for makeup removal, sunscreen, oily skin, fragrance sensitivity and double cleansing in Dubai and the UAE.
Your sunscreen has been on all day, your makeup needs removing, and your skin feels covered in a mixture of oil and residue. You know that cleansing oil might help—but which one should you choose?
Two familiar Korean skincare options are Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil and SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil.
Both are formulated to break down oil-soluble impurities, emulsify when water is added and rinse away. Both can serve as the first step in a double-cleansing routine.
Their differences are more subtle than simply saying that one is better for dry skin and the other is better for oily skin. The Beauty of Joseon formula emphasises soybean oil and ginseng-derived ingredients, while SKIN1004 uses lightweight esters and botanical oils with Centella asiatica.
Their fragrance-related ingredients also deserve attention, especially if your skin is easily irritated.
This guide compares their formulas, textures, application, skin-type suitability, cleansing purposes and practical use during daily life in the UAE.
Consider Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil if you prefer a soybean-oil-led formula with ginseng and a more nourishing oil composition. Consider SKIN1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil if you want a lighter-ester-led cleansing formula featuring Centella and botanical oils. Both require correct emulsification. Neither is a clear winner for fragrance-sensitive skin because both contain aromatic ingredients.
Ginseng Cleansing Oil
An emulsifying oil cleanser featuring soybean oil, ginseng seed oil, olive oil and other botanical ingredients.
Beauty of Joseon positions the formula as a gentle, lightweight first cleanse that helps dissolve impurities while leaving skin comfortable.
Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil
A lightweight cleansing formula built around emollient esters, Centella asiatica extract and a blend of botanical oils.
SKIN1004 positions it as an easy-rinsing cleanser designed to dissolve makeup, sunscreen and excess surface sebum.
Both products have been listed on YesOra Beauty. The checked Ginseng Cleansing Oil listing displays "Notify Me When Available." Product availability can change, so review the current listings before planning an order.
What Is the Main Difference Between the Two Cleansing Oils?
The biggest distinction lies in their ingredient bases and how the manufacturers position their formulas.
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil begins with soybean oil on its published ingredient list, followed by other emollients and cleansing components. Ginseng seed oil and several ginseng extracts are included as part of its botanical identity.
SKIN1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil begins with lightweight emollient esters rather than soybean oil. It features Centella asiatica, jojoba oil, olive oil and sunflower oil.
Both use Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate as an emulsifying ingredient. This helps explain why both formulas can transform into a milky emulsion when water is added.
Does Ginseng Make Beauty of Joseon Better?
Not necessarily. Ginseng-derived ingredients contribute to the formula's skin-conditioning concept, but this is a wash-off product.
Cleansing performance, skin tolerance and ease of rinsing are more important than expecting long-term results from a botanical ingredient with brief skin contact.
Does Centella Make SKIN1004 Gentler?
Not automatically. Centella is often associated with soothing-focused skincare, but the finished SKIN1004 cleansing oil also contains fragrant botanical oils.
The presence of Centella does not guarantee the absence of irritation or allergic reactions.
Beauty of Joseon vs SKIN1004 Cleansing Oil: Full Comparison
| Feature | Beauty of Joseon Ginseng | SKIN1004 Centella Light |
|---|---|---|
| Product category | Emulsifying cleansing oil | Emulsifying cleansing oil |
| Manufacturer's standard size | 210ml | 200ml |
| Primary formula base | Soybean oil and emollients | Lightweight emollient esters |
| Highlighted botanical | Ginseng seed oil and extracts | Centella asiatica extract |
| Additional oils | Olive, camellia, hazelnut and others | Jojoba, olive, sunflower and fragrant botanical oils |
| Emulsifier | Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate | Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate |
| Texture positioning | Comfortably lightweight oil | Light, fluid oil |
| Makeup removal | Designed for light base makeup and daily residue | Designed for makeup and daily residue |
| Sunscreen removal | Intended use | Intended use |
| Emulsifies with water | Yes | Yes |
| Fragrant botanical components | Sage, mugwort, basil oils and camphor | Bergamot, geranium and rose oils; limonene and linalool |
| Fragrance-sensitive skin | Review formula carefully | Review formula carefully |
| Oily skin | May suit, if tolerated | May suit, if tolerated |
| Dry skin | May suit, if tolerated | May suit, if tolerated |
| Acne treatment | Not an acne medication | Not an acne medication |
These differences can help guide your choice, but they do not establish that one cleanser removes more sunscreen or causes fewer breakouts than the other. A direct, controlled comparison would be required to support those claims.
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil: Benefits and Features
1. Soybean-Oil-Based Cleansing
Soybean oil is the first ingredient in the manufacturer's published formula. It helps dissolve oil-soluble material such as makeup and daily skin residue.
Beauty of Joseon positions the cleanser as a gentle first step that leaves the skin feeling soft rather than excessively stripped.
2. Ginseng-Derived Ingredients
The formula includes Panax ginseng seed oil and several ginseng-derived extracts from different parts of the plant.
These contribute to the product's traditional Korean botanical identity. However, because this is a rinse-off cleanser, it should not be expected to replace a leave-on ginseng serum or moisturiser.
3. Emulsifying Cleansing Technology
The brand describes its cleansing technology as micellar. The formula includes an emulsifier that enables oil and water to disperse together during rinsing.
This makes it possible to remove the oil without repeatedly scrubbing the face.
4. Designed for a Double-Cleansing Routine
Beauty of Joseon recommends applying the oil to dry skin, emulsifying with water and following with a water-based cleanser.
That makes it a convenient first cleansing step when you regularly wear makeup or sunscreen.
5. A Distinctive Botanical Aroma
The formula includes fragrant botanical oils such as sage, mugwort and basil, as well as camphor.
The sensory experience may appeal to some users, but anyone with fragrance-related sensitivities should check the ingredient list carefully.
Ginseng Cleansing Oil may appeal to people who want a soybean-oil-led first cleanser with botanical ingredients and a comfortable rinsing experience. Its aromatic components are an important sensitivity consideration.
SKIN1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil: Benefits and Features
1. Lightweight Ester-Based Formula
SKIN1004's ingredient list begins with Ethylhexyl Stearate and Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, ingredients commonly used to create a smooth emollient texture.
This distinguishes its cleansing base from Beauty of Joseon's soybean-oil-led formula.
2. Centella Asiatica Extract
Centella is the signature botanical ingredient associated with the brand's Madagascar Centella range.
In this cleanser, its role is primarily cosmetic skin conditioning. It should not be treated as a substitute for a dedicated leave-on product targeting redness.
3. Jojoba, Olive and Sunflower Oils
The published formula contains jojoba seed oil, olive fruit oil and sunflower seed oil.
These oils form part of the cleanser's emollient blend rather than being used as separate facial oils left on the skin.
4. Easy Water Emulsification
SKIN1004 uses an emulsifier that allows the cleansing oil to turn milky when water is added.
That helps remove the dissolved residue during rinsing.
5. Designed for Makeup and Sunscreen Removal
The manufacturer positions the product as a first cleanse for removing sunscreen, makeup and excess surface oil.
It may suit routines where evening sunscreen removal is a regular priority.
6. Fragrant Botanical Oils
SKIN1004 includes bergamot fruit oil, geranium flower oil, rose flower oil, limonene and linalool.
These ingredients matter when selecting products for fragrance-sensitive or reactive skin.
Centella Light Cleansing Oil may appeal to users who prefer a lightweight oil cleanser built around emollient esters and Centella. However, it is not a fragrance-free formula.
Ginseng vs Centella: Which Ingredients Matter Most?
Both cleansers contain botanical ingredients, but the ingredients that support their basic cleansing function are especially important.
| Ingredient Group | Beauty of Joseon | SKIN1004 |
|---|---|---|
| Main oil or emollient base | Soybean oil | Ethylhexyl Stearate and Cetyl Ethylhexanoate |
| Common emollient | Cetyl Ethylhexanoate | Cetyl Ethylhexanoate |
| Emulsifier | Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate | Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate |
| Highlighted botanical | Ginseng seed oil and extracts | Centella asiatica extract |
| Other oils | Olive, camellia and other oils | Jojoba, olive and sunflower oils |
| Fragrance-related ingredients | Sage, mugwort, basil and camphor | Bergamot, geranium, rose, limonene and linalool |
| Primary purpose | Dissolving and rinsing daily residue | Dissolving and rinsing daily residue |
Does Ginseng Offer Better Anti-Ageing Benefits?
A rinse-off cleanser has relatively short contact time with the skin.
It would be misleading to promise that Ginseng Cleansing Oil removes wrinkles simply because it contains ginseng.
Does Centella Treat Irritation While Cleansing?
Centella is widely used in soothing-focused skincare. However, a cleanser is primarily a product for removing residue.
A suitable leave-on moisturiser may be more relevant when managing dry, uncomfortable skin.
Are the Botanical Oils Necessary?
Botanical oils contribute to the character of these formulas, but their inclusion does not mean they are required for effective oil cleansing.
People with ingredient sensitivities may prefer a simpler cleansing formula without fragrant plant oils.
Which Cleansing Oil Is Better for Sensitive Skin?
Neither cleanser can automatically be identified as the safer choice for fragrance-sensitive skin.
Beauty of Joseon includes aromatic botanical oils and camphor, while SKIN1004 includes bergamot, geranium and rose oils alongside limonene and linalool.
Why Does This Matter?
Some people tolerate fragrant botanical ingredients without difficulty. Others experience irritation or allergic reactions.
Being plant-derived does not make an ingredient universally gentle.
Does Rinsing Reduce the Concern?
A rinse-off cleanser generally remains on the skin for less time than a leave-on product.
However, people with known fragrance allergies may still need to avoid specific ingredients, even in wash-off formulas.
What About the Beauty of Joseon Patch Test?
Beauty of Joseon reports non-sensitisation results from a 24-hour repeated insult patch test involving 51 subjects.
This is product testing information, not a guarantee that no individual will develop irritation.
If you know that fragrant botanical oils trigger reactions, neither formula should automatically be your first choice. Consider a cleanser with a simpler ingredient profile and patch test when appropriate.
Which Cleansing Oil Is Better for Your Skin Type?
Both Are Possible
Oil cleansing is not limited to dry skin. Choose based on texture, emulsification and how your skin responds after rinsing.
Comfort Is the Priority
Either may suit dry skin when used gently. Follow with a moisturiser rather than relying on a rinse-off cleanser for long-term hydration.
Choose Your Preferred Texture
SKIN1004's light ester-based formula may appeal to people who prefer a fluid feel, while Beauty of Joseon's botanical oil blend offers a different texture.
Neither Is Acne Medication
Both may fit a cleansing routine if tolerated. Persistent acne often requires appropriately targeted treatment beyond facial cleansing.
Review Fragrant Ingredients
Both contain aromatic components. Individual allergy history should guide selection more than marketing labels.
Choose for Routine Convenience
Both can be considered for removing makeup and sunscreen. Pick the formula whose texture and ingredient profile suit you.
Is SKIN1004 Automatically Better for Oily Skin?
Not necessarily. The product's lightweight feel may be appealing, but that does not establish superior oil-control performance.
Is Beauty of Joseon Automatically Better for Dry Skin?
No. Its soybean-oil-led formula may sound nourishing, but the cleanser is rinsed away.
Dry skin needs a suitable post-cleansing moisturiser regardless of which oil cleanser is used.
Which Cleansing Oil Removes Sunscreen and Makeup Better?
Both cleansers are intended to remove makeup, sunscreen and oil-soluble daily residue.
However, there is no verified head-to-head test establishing that one removes more sunscreen than the other.
Daily Sunscreen
Both formulas may be useful for loosening ordinary sunscreen films. Proper emulsification and thorough rinsing are important.
Long-Wear Foundation
Oil-based cleansing ingredients can help dissolve many long-wear foundation formulas.
The result depends on the foundation's own ingredients and application.
Waterproof Mascara
Beauty of Joseon's official FAQ specifically highlights removal of non-waterproof light base makeup.
It would be inaccurate to promise that it removes every waterproof mascara. The same caution applies when evaluating SKIN1004.
For particularly resistant eye makeup, a dedicated eye makeup remover may be preferable.
Should You Rub Longer for Waterproof Makeup?
No. Extended rubbing may cause irritation. Use a suitable cleanser or remover designed for the specific product instead of forcing removal.
Do These Cleansing Oils Help Blackheads, Pores and Acne?
Both products can dissolve oil-soluble surface residue, but neither is a dedicated acne treatment.
Blackheads
Blackheads form when follicular material becomes visible at the opening of a pore.
A cleansing oil may help remove surface oil, but it cannot guarantee removal of persistent blackheads.
Sebaceous Filaments
Sebaceous filaments are normal structures associated with facial pores. They are especially noticeable on some noses.
Cleansing may temporarily improve their appearance, but cannot permanently remove them.
Clogged Pores
If clogged pores and acne are your main concerns, appropriate acne-focused skincare may be more relevant than changing cleansing oils repeatedly.
Does Oil Cleansing Cause Purging?
A cleansing oil does not normally work like a leave-on retinoid or exfoliating acid.
New breakouts or persistent irritation should not automatically be described as beneficial purging.
How Do Both Cleansing Oils Emulsify With Water?
Emulsification is an essential part of using both products correctly.
Both formulas include Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, an ingredient that helps oil and water form a dispersed cleansing mixture.
First: Dissolve
Applying the oil to dry skin allows the formula to contact makeup, sunscreen and oily residue.
Second: Emulsify
Adding water changes the cleansing oil into a milky emulsion.
Third: Rinse
Rinsing thoroughly helps remove the cleanser and loosened residue from the skin.
Why Does the Dry-Face Rule Matter?
Applying water too early may begin emulsification before the cleansing oil has contacted your makeup and sunscreen adequately.
For both products: dry hands, dry face, gentle massage, add water, emulsify, rinse thoroughly. Correct technique matters more than aggressive facial rubbing.
How to Use Beauty of Joseon and SKIN1004 Cleansing Oils
Can You Massage for Several Minutes?
Long massage sessions are not necessary for routine makeup and sunscreen removal.
Avoid treating the cleanser as a way to force material out of pores.
Can You Use Hot Water?
Lukewarm water is usually more comfortable, particularly for dry or sensitive-feeling skin.
Do You Need to Double Cleanse With Either Product?
Double cleansing typically involves an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle water-based cleanser.
Beauty of Joseon explicitly recommends this approach in its official usage instructions.
SKIN1004's cleansing oil also fits naturally into the first step of a double-cleansing routine.
Oil Cleanser
Use Beauty of Joseon or SKIN1004 on dry skin to dissolve makeup, sunscreen and oil-soluble residue. Emulsify and rinse.
Water-Based Cleanser
Follow with a gentle gel or foam cleanser when appropriate to complete the cleansing routine.
Is a Second Cleanse Mandatory?
Not in every situation. Some people find that a properly emulsified cleanser removes their daily residue adequately.
Others prefer a separate water-based cleanser, especially after heavy makeup.
The goal is effective cleansing without leaving the skin excessively dry or irritated.
Should You Use Cleansing Oil in the Morning or Evening?
Morning
A separate oil-cleansing step may not be necessary if you have not applied heavy makeup or persistent products overnight.
Many people prefer a simple water rinse or gentle cleanser in the morning.
Evening
Evening is a practical time to use an oil cleanser after wearing sunscreen, foundation or other daily products.
Both Beauty of Joseon and SKIN1004 may fit that purpose.
Cleanse and Protect
- Gentle cleanse if needed
- Optional hydrating serum
- Moisturiser
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF30+
Remove and Replenish
- Oil cleanser on dry skin
- Emulsify and rinse
- Optional second cleanser
- Hydrating or treatment serum
- Moisturiser
Which Cleansing Oil Is Better for Dubai and UAE Weather?
The UAE climate can affect how skincare products feel, but it does not establish that one cleansing oil is inherently more effective than the other.
Hot and Humid Summers
SKIN1004's lightweight-ester-led formula may appeal to people who dislike a heavier oil texture.
However, Beauty of Joseon also describes its product as comfortably lightweight.
Texture preference, rather than climate alone, should guide the decision.
Heavy Daily Sunscreen
Both products are intended for removing sunscreen and daily oily residue.
The quality of the cleanse depends on the sunscreen formula, product quantity and application technique.
Air-Conditioned Offices
If your face feels dry after cleansing, avoid unnecessarily harsh second cleansers and use a suitable moisturiser.
A rinse-off oil cleanser is not a replacement for leave-on hydration.
Long-Wear Makeup
Both may be useful as a first cleansing step. Very resistant makeup may require a dedicated remover.
Outdoor Workers
Removing sunscreen at the end of the day may be useful, but effective daytime sun protection remains more important than the cleanser brand chosen.
For people who like a more ester-led, fluid cleansing formula, SKIN1004 is worth considering. For those drawn to soybean oil and ginseng, Beauty of Joseon may be appealing. Neither has verified superior cleansing performance in Dubai conditions.
Ten Common Mistakes When Choosing or Using Cleansing Oil
1. Assuming Oil Cleansers Are Only for Dry Skin
Oily skin can also use a suitable, well-emulsifying oil cleanser.
2. Choosing Only by the Hero Ingredient
Ginseng and Centella are only part of the complete formulation.
3. Ignoring Fragrance-Related Ingredients
Both formulas contain aromatic botanical components.
4. Applying to a Wet Face
Both manufacturers recommend starting with dry skin.
5. Forgetting Emulsification
Add water, allow the oil to become milky, then rinse.
6. Massaging Too Aggressively
Excessive friction may irritate the skin.
7. Expecting Permanent Blackhead Removal
Oil cleansing cannot guarantee lasting elimination of follicular blockage.
8. Double Cleansing With Harsh Products
The second cleanser should be appropriate for your skin and not cause unnecessary tightness.
9. Assuming Both Remove All Waterproof Makeup
Resistant eye makeup may require a separate appropriate remover.
10. Confusing Cleanser With Treatment Serum
A wash-off cleanser does not replace acne medication, pigmentation treatment or moisturiser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil or SKIN1004 Centella?
Both are emulsifying oil cleansers. Beauty of Joseon emphasises soybean oil and ginseng, while SKIN1004 features lightweight emollient esters and Centella. Choose based on your formula preferences and tolerance.
Which is better for oily skin?
Both may suit oily skin. SKIN1004's lighter ester-based formula may appeal to those who prefer a fluid texture, but it has not been shown to be universally superior.
Which cleansing oil is better for dry skin?
Both may fit a dry-skin routine when tolerated. Follow cleansing with an appropriate moisturiser.
Does Beauty of Joseon contain soybean oil?
Yes. Soybean oil is the first ingredient in its published formula.
Does SKIN1004 Cleansing Oil contain Centella?
Yes. Centella asiatica extract appears in the published formula.
Are both cleansing oils fragrance-free?
No. Both contain fragrant botanical ingredients, although the specific components differ.
Can either cleansing oil cause breakouts?
Individual reactions are possible with any cleanser. Neither product guarantees freedom from breakouts.
Do both cleansing oils emulsify with water?
Yes. Both contain an emulsifying ingredient and are designed to rinse off after adding water.
Can both products remove sunscreen?
Yes. Removing sunscreen and oily daily residue is an intended use for both.
Which is better for waterproof makeup?
Neither has verified superiority for all waterproof makeup. Some resistant formulas may need a dedicated remover.
Do I need to double cleanse?
A second gentle cleanser may be useful, especially after heavy makeup, but it is not mandatory for every person every night.
Can I use cleansing oil every evening?
Many people use cleansing oils regularly when removing sunscreen or makeup. Adjust according to your skin's tolerance.
Should my hands be dry before applying?
Yes. Both manufacturers advise starting with dry hands and a dry face.
Does Ginseng Cleansing Oil treat wrinkles?
It is a rinse-off cleanser, not a dedicated wrinkle treatment.
Does Centella Cleansing Oil treat redness?
Its primary purpose is cleansing. The presence of Centella does not establish treatment of persistent redness.
Can cleansing oil permanently shrink pores?
No. Proper cleansing may improve surface appearance, but does not permanently alter pore anatomy.
Are both products listed at YesOra Beauty?
Yes. Both have been listed at YesOra. Check the live pages for current availability before purchasing.
The Final Verdict: Beauty of Joseon or SKIN1004?
Both Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil and SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil offer a practical approach to removing makeup, sunscreen and oil-based daily residue.
They both emulsify with water and can fit the first step of a double-cleansing routine.
Beauty of Joseon may be more appealing if you prefer a soybean-oil-led formula with ginseng and other botanical ingredients.
SKIN1004 may be more appealing if you prefer a lightweight-ester-led formula featuring Centella, jojoba and sunflower oils.
But there is no verified basis for saying that one universally removes sunscreen better, prevents acne more effectively or is safer for every sensitive skin type.
Both contain fragrance-related botanical ingredients, which are worth evaluating if your skin is reactive.
For everyday skincare in Dubai and the wider UAE, focus on comfortable removal of makeup and sunscreen, correct emulsification, gentle cleansing and a moisturiser suited to your skin.
Prefer soybean oil and ginseng? Consider Beauty of Joseon. Prefer an ester-based cleansing oil with Centella? Consider SKIN1004. If you are fragrance-sensitive, review both formulas carefully rather than assuming either is hypoallergenic.
Explore Korean Cleansing Oils at YesOra Beauty
Compare both cleansers, explore Korean skincare collections and check current availability before choosing your evening cleansing routine.
Explore Korean Skincare →This guide provides general cosmetic skincare education and is not medical advice. Product formulations, packaging and availability may change. Both cleansers contain botanical ingredients that may cause reactions in susceptible individuals. Follow current packaging directions and seek professional advice for persistent skin symptoms. Product photographs are authentic YesOra catalogue images and do not guarantee live stock availability.