Beauty of Joseon GREEN PLUM REFRESHING CLEANSER 100ML
Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser is a 100ml low-pH (approximately 5.5) gel-to-foam facial cleanser built around Prunus Mume Fruit Water (Plum Water, 24%) and Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract (Mung Bean Seed Extract, 3%). It removes sweat, sebum, and everyday impurities in the way a lower-pH surfactant system does β without swinging skin past its natural acidic range β which in Mauritius's humidity feels like "clean, not squeaky." It is not sufficient on its own for waterproof makeup or heavy SPF β those need an oil or balm cleanser first.
At-a-Glance (Is this for you?)
Values You Can Trust: 100% Genuine (Adilsons sourcing policy) / Fragrance-Free (confirmed via INCI β no Parfum/Fragrance listed) / Halal-Friendly* / Vegan-Friendly* / Cruelty-Free*
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No ethanol from fermentation, no porcine-derived ingredients, and no haram animal-derived ingredients detected in the declared ingredient list. This is NOT a formal Halal certification. Muslims with stricter requirements should consult their own scholars.
*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No animal-derived ingredients detected. This is NOT a formal vegan certification by The Vegan Society or equivalent body.
*Brand-stated policy. Not independently certified by Leaping Bunny, PETA, or equivalent third-party audit.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Beauty of Joseon |
| Product Type | Low-pH Gel Cleanser (rinse-off) |
| Net Volume | 100ml |
| Key Actives | Plum Water 24%, Mung Bean Seed Extract 3% (brand-stated) |
| Skin Types | Normal, Combination, Oily, Sensitive; usable by Dry with immediate hydration follow-up |
| Primary Concern Targeted | Over-cleansing / barrier-stripping cleansers, excess surface sebum |
| AM/PM Suitability | Both |
| Routine Complexity | Straightforward |
| MFDS Classification | General Cosmetic (no evidence found of Functional registration) |
If your skin has ever felt "raw clean" after washing β tight, squeaky, maybe a little itchy an hour later β that's not a sign of a thorough cleanse. It's a sign the cleanser stripped past your skin's own protective layer, and this product is built specifically to avoid that feeling.
Pros: Low-pH gel formula that doesn't leave a tight after-feel; brand-stated 24% plum water plus 3% mung bean extract as named actives rather than just marketing filler; fragrance-free by INCI; foams from a small amount so a 100ml tube lasts a while.
Caveats: Not a makeup remover on its own β heavy or waterproof makeup and sunscreen need an oil/balm first; the "gentle exfoliation" positioning is ingredient-rationale, not a lab-verified resurfacing claim; exact pH range is retailer-stated (5.5) rather than published on an official brand spec sheet we could locate.
The Over-Cleansing Cycle (Why your skin feels worse)
In Mauritius heat, the shine and slight grease you feel by midday is sebum and sweat doing their job β regulating moisture and protecting the skin surface β not "dirt" that needs scrubbing out. Washing more than twice a day, or using a high-pH soap-based cleanser, strips the acid mantle (the skin's natural surface pH of roughly 4.5β5.5) faster than it can rebuild. The skin reads that as an emergency and ramps up sebum production to compensate β which is the exact oiliness the over-washing was trying to solve in the first place.
This cleanser's low-pH surfactant system (Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine and Sodium Cocoyl/Isethionate as the primary mild surfactants) is formulated closer to skin's own pH than a traditional soap bar or high-pH foaming cleanser, so twice-daily use is less likely to trigger that compensatory cycle. It won't fix an already-damaged barrier by itself β pair it with the barrier-support steps below if you're mid-recovery.
Quick Start (60-Second Essentials)
- When: AM and PM, both.
- How much: A pea-sized amount, worked into wet hands.
- How: Lather with water on damp skin, massage 30β60 seconds, rinse with lukewarm (not hot) water.
The One Rule: Introduce this as the ONLY new product in your routine. Wait a full 14 days before adding anything else. This isolation window ensures you can identify whether any reaction is caused by this specific product.
AM Routine Guide (Morning sequence)
- Rinse or Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser β pea-size, 30β60 second massage, rinse.
- Hydrating toner/essence (optional) β 5-8 drops, wait 10-20s.
- Targeted serum (optional, e.g. antioxidant or brightening) β wait 30-60s.
- Moisturizer β gel or cream, 1-2 peas.
- Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ β 2-finger rule, 10-15 min before sun/makeup.
Mauritius humidity note: humectants (glycerin, plant waters) in your following steps draw moisture from the humid morning air itself rather than pulling it from deeper skin layers β this is one reason a light AM routine performs better here than a heavy one.
PM Routine Guide (Evening sequence)
- Oil/balm cleanser first if wearing sunscreen or makeup β massage on dry skin 30-60s, emulsify with water, rinse.
- Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser (second cleanse) β pea-size, 30-60s, rinse.
- Toner/essence/serum layers as your routine requires.
- Moisturizer to seal.
This is a passive rinse-off step, not an active ingredient, so it doesn't occupy a "lane" in the skin-cycling sense β it's compatible as the second-cleanse step every night regardless of what actives follow it.
How to Use (Amounts, technique, and tips)
| Area | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full face | Pea-sized | Lather in wet hands before applying |
Technique: Massage, don't scrub β friction against a foaming cleanser increases the chance of over-stripping, especially on already-sensitized skin. 60-Second Rule: a full 30-60 seconds of contact gives the mild surfactants adequate time to lift sebum and debris before rinsing.
Skin state: Damp skin, either AM or PM. Cotton pad vs hands: Hands deliver 100% of product; cotton pads absorb approximately 30-40%. Use hands for cleansers.
If-Then: If you have an oily T-zone but drier cheeks, focus the massage time on the T-zone and rinse the cheeks more quickly. If you wore sunscreen or makeup that day, this cleanser alone will not fully remove it β double-cleanse first (see PM Routine above).
Routine Encyclopedia (Where every product type fits)
This is an encyclopedia map of all product types. You do not use all of these daily. You select modules based on your skin state.
Global execution rules: Viscosity ladder β thinnest to thickest, water-phase before oil-phase, treatments before seals. Wait-time defaults: watery layers 10-20s; serum layers 30-60s; before sunscreen 10-15 min if going outdoors or applying makeup. Amount defaults: watery toner/essence 5-8 drops; serum/ampoule 2-3 drops; eye product Β½ rice-grain per eye; gel moisturizer 1-1.5 peas, cream 1-2 peas; occlusive seal rice-grain to pea-size max; sunscreen 2-finger rule for face, +1 finger for neck. Hard cap rule: if the routine pills, stings, or feels heavy, reduce layers, not increase.
AM Maximum Stack: 1. Rinse/Gentle Cleanse (optional) β this product fits here. 2. pH-Prep/Balancing Toner (optional). 3. Hydrating Toner Layers (1-3, optional). 4. Essence (optional). 5. Mist/Thermal Water (optional). 6. Booster/Soothing Serum (optional). 7. Antioxidant Lane (choose one). 8. Pigment Support Lane (choose one). 9. Hydration Serum Lane (optional). 10. Oil-Control/Sebum-Regulating Lane (choose one). 11. Peptides/Growth-Factor Lane (optional). 12. Eye Serum/Cream (optional). 13. Moisturizer. 14. Optional Sealing Layer (AC/dry only). 15. Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ (non-negotiable). 16. Lip SPF (optional). In AM, prioritize comfort + SPF adherence over stacking. In high humidity, fewer layers often perform better.
PM Maximum Stack: 1. Micellar (optional pre-cleanse). 2. Oil Cleanser/Balm (if SPF/makeup). 3. Water Cleanser (second cleanse) β this product fits here. 4. pH-Prep Toner (optional). 5. Hydrating Toner Layers (optional). 6. Essence (optional). 7. Soothing/Barrier Serum (optional). 8. Anchor active product, if used that night. 9. Targeted Serum (optional, non-conflicting only). 10. Moisturizer. 11. Sleeping Mask (optional). 12. Occlusive Seal (optional). 13. Spot Treatment/Pimple Patch (as needed). 14. Lip Sleeping Mask (optional). Do not layer retinoids with AHA/BHA in the same night; keep "one lane" per night.
Lane strictness: One-lane rule β Retinoid OR Exfoliation OR Strong Vitamin C (LAA) OR Acne-control active per routine; barrier/hydration can always accompany. If unsure: default to the safest lane = barrier/hydration, and reduce layers.
Viscosity and Layering Science (Where it fits)
This is a water-thin, low-viscosity gel that foams on contact with water β it sits at the very start of any routine, before every other step, since it's a rinse-off product with nothing left on skin afterward.
Phase compatibility: Water-phase surfactant system; it doesn't interact with the oil-phase or silicone-phase products that come later because it's rinsed away before those steps begin.
What to Expect (Results timeline)
| Phase | Timeframe | What You Will Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate | 0-24h | Skin feels clean but not tight or squeaky immediately after rinsing. |
| Adjustment | Week 1-2 | Any transient tingling should be minimal to none, given this is a low-pH, fragrance-free formula; discontinue if burning persists beyond 30 seconds. |
| Epidermal Turnover | Week 4-6 | If your prior cleanser was high-pH or drying, you may notice fewer post-cleanse tight spots and steadier oil levels through the day. |
| Dermal Remodeling | Week 8-16 | Not applicable β this is a cleansing step, not a treatment product; it does not build structural skin changes over this window. |
| Maintenance Plateau | Ongoing | Results stabilize; continued use maintains barrier comfort but doesn't add further gains β do not increase frequency or amount chasing more. |
Who Should Use This (Clinical triage)
Before starting this product, your routine does not need any specific prerequisite β a cleanser is a foundational step, not one that requires other products already in place.
| Category | Criteria |
|---|---|
| PROCEED IF | You want a gentler daily cleanser, your current cleanser leaves skin tight or squeaky, or you're building a basic low-pH routine. |
| PAUSE IF | You have an open wound, active severe eczema flare, or a known allergy to plum/mung bean/rice-family ingredients β patch test first. |
| STOP/CONSULT IF | You experience burning, hives, or swelling on first use. |
Skin Type Compatibility
| Skin Type | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Excellent | No modification needed. |
| Combination | Excellent | Focus massage time on the oilier T-zone. |
| Oily | Excellent | Low pH helps avoid the compensatory-oil rebound that high-pH cleansers can trigger. |
| Sensitive | Good | Fragrance-free by INCI and low-pH; patch test first as with any new cleanser. |
| Dry | Good with caution | Rinses fully clean with no residual emollient film β follow immediately with hydrating toner/serum/moisturizer. |
Targeted Concerns (What it treats)
Primary targets: Removes surface sebum, sweat, and daily grime via mild amphoteric/isethionate surfactants; supports barrier comfort by cleansing at a lower pH than soap-based cleansers, reducing the strip-and-rebound cycle described above.
Secondary benefits: Plum water (organic acids) and mung bean extract are positioned by the brand as gently softening surface dead skin β a mild, ingredient-rationale-level effect, not a resurfacing treatment.
What this product cannot do: Cannot remove waterproof or long-wear eye makeup on its own. Cannot exfoliate at the level of a dedicated AHA/BHA product. Cannot treat active acne or hyperpigmentation β it is a cleansing step, not a treatment.
Best Paired With (Synergistic pairings)
PM double-cleanse partner (primary): SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil 200ML β melts sunscreen/makeup first so this cleanser can do its job as a true second cleanse. Use PM only. Note: Beauty of Joseon's own Ginseng Cleansing Oil is currently out of stock at Adilsons β we're recommending an in-stock alternative rather than a product you can't actually buy right now.
Alternatives: Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil 200ML, beplain Mung Bean Cleansing Oil 200ML, THE FACE SHOP Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil 150ML.
Hydrating follow-up essence (primary): Beauty of Joseon GINSENG ESSENCE WATER β preps freshly cleansed skin with lasting hydration before serums. AM or PM.
Alternatives: Beauty of Joseon GLOW REPLENISHING RICE MILK 150ML, Beauty of Joseon CALMING SERUM: GREEN TEA + PANTHENOL 30ML, Beauty of Joseon GREEN PLUM REFRESHING TONER: AHA + BHA 150ML (if you want a same-line exfoliating step instead of a purely hydrating one).
Moisturizer to seal the routine (primary): Beauty of Joseon DYNASTY CREAM 50ML.
Alternatives: Beauty of Joseon DYNASTY CREAM 100ML, Beauty of Joseon RED BEAN WATER GEL 100ML (lighter, better for oily/combination), Beauty of Joseon Revive Firming Moisturizer: Ginseng Ceramide + Fermented Retinol 60ML (an active step-up, not a like-for-like basic moisturizer β see conflict notes below if you're also using a retinoid elsewhere).
Daily SPF (primary): Beauty of Joseon RELIEF SUN: RICE + PROBIOTICS 50ML.
Alternatives: Beauty of Joseon GINSENG MOIST SUN SERUM SPF 50+ PA++++ 50ML, Beauty of Joseon MATTE SUN STICK: MUGWORT + CAMELIA 18G, Beauty of Joseon DAILY TINTED FLUID SUNSCREEN SPF 50ML.
Pilling pairs: As a rinse-off product, this cleanser does not stay on skin and cannot pill with anything layered afterward.
Myth Replacement (Common misconceptions)
MYTH: "A squeaky-clean feeling after washing means my face is truly clean." REALITY: That tight, squeaky sensation is your acid mantle being stripped, not a sign of thorough cleansing β a properly balanced cleanser leaves skin feeling clean but comfortable, not tight.
MYTH: "Natural fruit-water ingredients mean this cleanser exfoliates like an AHA product." REALITY: Plum water contributes organic acids at an ingredient-rationale level, not at a concentration or delivery format designed to resurface skin the way a dedicated AHA/BHA toner does β treat the "mild exfoliation" claim as gentle and incidental, not a substitute for an actual exfoliant.
Climate Fit for Mauritius
| Season | Conditions | How to Adjust |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec-Mar) | High heat and humidity, more sweat/sebum | Use as normal twice daily; the low-pH formula helps avoid the strip-and-rebound oil cycle heavy summer sweating can trigger. |
| Winter (Jun-Sep) | Drier, cooler air, more AC exposure | Follow immediately with a hydrating toner/moisturizer since this cleanser leaves no residual film. |
| Cyclone Season (Jan-Mar) | Humidity spikes, possible disrupted routines | No change needed β this is a simple rinse-off step that travels and stores easily. |
Sugar cane burning season (July-November): PM2.5 increases during this period. Since this is a rinse-off cleanser, it doesn't trap particulate matter against skin the way a leave-on product could β an evening cleanse is actually one of your better defenses against the day's accumulated particulates.
Hard water note: Mauritius tap water hardness varies by region. Hard water can leave a calcium-stearate film after cleansing that feels like tightness even with a gentle cleanser β if your area has notably hard water, consider a pH-adjusting toner immediately after cleansing to counteract that residue.
Complete Ingredient Transparency
| Ingredient | Concentration | Evidence Grade | Mechanism | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prunus Mume Fruit Water (Plum Water) | 24% (brand-stated) | Traditional* | Organic-acid-rich Hanbang ingredient; softens surface dead skin, contributes light hydration. | Plant |
| Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract (Mung Bean) | 3% (brand-stated) | Traditional* | Historical Hanbang cleansing ingredient; gentle surface-cleansing/soothing contribution. | Plant |
*These are ingredient-rationale/traditional-use claims rather than a peer-reviewed clinical study on the finished product β we could not locate a published clinical trial for this specific cleanser.
Full INCI List: Water, Prunus Mume Fruit Water, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycerin, Sodium Chloride, [--- Estimated 1% Line ---] Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Prunus Mume Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Coconut Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Isethionate, Citric Acid, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Punica Granatum Extract, Clitoria Ternatea Flower Extract, Garcinia Mangostana Peel Extract, Propylene Glycol Laurate, Sodium Citrate, Disodium EDTA.
*The estimated 1% line placement above is our best estimate based on typical cosmetic-chemistry ordering conventions, not a lab-confirmed breakdown from the brand β everything after it is very likely a minor botanical, humectant-support, or preservative/chelator ingredient present at a low concentration.
Preservative system: Ethylhexylglycerin and Caprylyl Glycol (a common multifunctional preservative-booster pairing) and 1,2-Hexanediol β a glycol-based preservation system rather than a paraben or formaldehyde-releaser system.
Allergens and Fragrance Disclosure
Fragrance status: Fragrance-Free β no Parfum/Fragrance ingredient appears in the declared INCI. Any scent comes from the plant-derived ingredients themselves.
Scent description: Faint, natural plum/fruit-forward note from Prunus Mume; not a synthetic perfume note.
Intensity: Low (approximately 1/5), dissipates within seconds of rinsing.
EU 26 allergen screen: None of the 26 declarable EU fragrance allergens were detected in the declared INCI list above.
Alcohol disclosure: Alcohol-Free β no ethanol/denatured alcohol appears in the INCI.
Conscious and Permissible Formulation
Halal status: Halal-Friendly*. Beauty of Joseon does not hold a formal Halal certification for this or any product (confirmed via the brand's own FAQ). *Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. No ethanol from fermentation, no porcine-derived ingredients, and no haram animal-derived ingredients detected in the declared ingredient list. This is NOT a formal Halal certification. Muslims with stricter requirements should consult their own scholars.
Vegan status: Vegan-Friendly*. No animal-derived ingredients (honey, snail mucin, collagen, etc.) appear in this SKU's INCI, though Beauty of Joseon is not a vegan brand across its full catalog. *Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available INCI data. This is NOT a formal vegan certification by The Vegan Society or equivalent body.
Cruelty-free status: Uncertified*. *Brand-stated policy. Not independently certified by Leaping Bunny, PETA, or equivalent third-party audit.
Microplastic status: Microplastic-Free β no polymer/plastic exfoliating particles or film-forming plastics detected in the declared INCI.
Evidence, Regulation and Claims
MFDS classification: General Cosmetic β no evidence found that this product carries a Korean MFDS Functional Cosmetic registration (which would apply to whitening, wrinkle, or UV-protection claims backed by additional government-reviewed testing).
Clinical evidence: No brand-published or independent clinical trial for this finished product was located. The 24% plum water / 3% mung bean extract figures are brand-stated formulation percentages, corroborated consistently across multiple independent retailer listings, but the biological benefit claims tied to them are ingredient-rationale rather than clinical-trial evidence.
Evidence confidence: Medium for the stated concentrations (multiple independent, consistent third-party sources); Marketing-Only* for the specific "gentle exfoliation" and "moisturizing" benefit language. *Brand claims based on ingredient rationale rather than a published clinical study on the finished product.
Product Identity and Provenance
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| English Name | Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser |
| Brand | Beauty of Joseon |
| Product Line | Green Plum line (pore/brightening-adjacent care) |
| Country of Manufacture | South Korea |
| Net Volume | 100ml |
| Shelf Life After Opening (PAO) | 12 months |
Some third-party trackers appear to list both a current and an older tracked version of this product's page, which can indicate a past reformulation. We could not confirm within this pass what, if anything, changed between versions β flagging this as an open question rather than asserting a reformulation history we haven't verified.
Sensory and Chemical Profile
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Texture | Water-thin gel, foams into a soft lather |
| Viscosity | Water-thin (pre-lather) |
| pH | ~5.5 (retailer-stated single-point figure; not independently lab-confirmed by Adilsons) |
| Finish | Rinses clean, no residual film |
| Tackiness | None (rinse-off) |
Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Compatibility: FA-Conditional. Propylene Glycol Laurate appears in the tail of the INCI list and is flagged by some Malassezia-feeding-ingredient trackers as a conditional trigger ingredient. Because this is a rinse-off product with under a minute of skin contact per use, the practical risk is considerably lower than it would be in a leave-on formula β but if you're actively managing fungal acne and reacting to everything, patch test and monitor rather than assume it's automatically safe.
Pilling Risk and Texture Mechanics
Assessment: None. As a rinse-off cleanser, this product is not present on skin when subsequent products are applied, so it cannot cause pilling.
Stability, Spoilage and Oxidation
Color baseline: Expect a clear to very pale, faintly tinted gel. A significant color shift, browning, or a sharp change in smell can indicate oxidation or degradation of the botanical extracts.
Storage: Keep out of direct sunlight and away from prolonged bathroom heat/humidity extremes where possible β a squeeze tube with a flip-top cap is relatively well-protected compared to an open-jar format, but a cool, dry cabinet is still better than a steamy shower shelf.
Spoilage signs: Separation that won't remix, an off/sour smell distinct from the faint plum note, or visible discoloration. When in doubt, discard.
Safety and Patch Test Protocol
Patch test: Apply a small amount to your inner forearm, wait 24 hours; if clear, apply behind the ear, wait another 24 hours; then begin facial use.
72-hour barrier reset: If you experience an adverse reaction: STOP ALL ACTIVES. For 72 hours, use ONLY a gentle cleanser and plain moisturizer, plus mineral SPF if outdoors. No acids, retinoids, Vitamin C, exfoliants, or essential oils. After 72 hours, reintroduce one product per 14 days.
Emergency stop signals: Hives, swelling, blistering, persistent burning, or breathing difficulty β seek emergency care immediately.
Troubleshooting Guide
| If You Experience | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Skin still feels tight after rinsing | Very hard local tap water, or a naturally dry baseline | Follow immediately with a hydrating toner and moisturizer; consider a pH-adjusting toner if your area has hard water. |
| Makeup or sunscreen not fully removed | This cleanser alone isn't formulated to break down waterproof/heavy formulas | Double-cleanse: oil/balm cleanser first, then this product. |
| Mild stinging on first use | Compromised barrier from a prior harsh cleanser, or a genuine sensitivity | Stop and patch test again; if it clears, resume gradually. If it persists beyond 30 seconds or worsens, discontinue. |
| Product separated or smells off | Formula degradation/spoilage | Discard β see Stability section above. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Top mistakes: Using it as a sole makeup remover; scrubbing with pressure rather than a gentle 30-60 second massage; over-cleansing more than twice daily believing more washes equal cleaner skin; skipping moisturizer afterward on dry skin because "it feels clean already"; storing the tube somewhere it gets direct sun/heat for long periods.
Overuse threshold: More than twice daily continuous use is unnecessary and can re-trigger the over-cleansing cycle described above, even with a low-pH formula.
Usage Economics (How long it lasts)
Usage math: 100ml container, pea-sized amount (~0.5ml) per wash.
Lifespan: At once-daily use, approximately 200 uses (~6-7 months); at twice-daily use, approximately 100 uses (~3-3.5 months). Using significantly more than a pea-size per wash shortens this proportionally without improving the cleanse.
Reorder timing: If using twice daily, plan to reorder around the 3-month mark to allow shipping time before you run out.
Complete Your Routine (Exact routine + pairings)
This cleanser is the entry point to a basic, humidity-appropriate Mauritius routine β it does one job (comfortable, non-stripping cleansing) so the rest of your routine can actually work as intended.
AM: 1. Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser (optional, or rinse only if barely oily overnight). 2. Hydrating toner/essence (optional). 3. Targeted serum (optional). 4. Moisturizer. 5. Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++.
PM: 1. Oil/balm cleanser if wearing SPF/makeup. 2. Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser (second cleanse, always). 3. Toner/essence/serum. 4. Moisturizer.
If you're in air conditioning most of the day, follow this cleanser with a humectant essence sealed under a moisturizer β AC pulls moisture out of skin faster than a humid outdoor day does. If your barrier currently stings on plain moisturizer, skip actives entirely for now and use this cleanser plus a barrier-repair cream only until that resolves. If you double-cleanse nightly for sunscreen removal, this product's job is specifically the second, water-based step β don't skip the oil step and expect the same result.
Stock-true bundle β Basic Barrier-Friendly Routine: Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser + Ginseng Essence Water + Dynasty Cream 50ML + Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics SPF50 50ML. Cleanse, hydrate, seal, protect β nothing more is required to start.
After purchasing, you will receive our skincare education email series covering this product in depth.
The recommendations above are based on formulation synergy with Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser, not on margin or stock levels. If a pairing does not exist in our catalog, we say so. If you already own a product that fills the same role, use what you have first.
Is This the Best Choice? (Mindful alternatives)
If you need more active acne-fighting power (primary): SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica BHA Foam 125ML β contains Salicylic Acid to work inside pores.
Alternatives: Anua Heartleaf Succinic Cleansing Foam 150ML (10,000ppm Succinic Acid + 0.5% BHA), Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam 150ML.
If you have an extremely sensitive or compromised barrier (primary): Purito SEOUL Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cleanser 150ML β Panthenol-forward, formulated for sensitive skin.
Alternatives: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser 150ML, SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule Foam 125ML, APLB Glutathione Niacinamide Facial Cleanser 80ML.
Mindful use: If you already have a gentle, low-pH cleanser at home that you're happy with, finish it first β a second cleanser doing the same job doesn't speed up results.
The No-Buy Redundancy Check
This product's PRIMARY function is: gentle, low-pH facial cleansing. You do NOT need this if you already own an active, unexpired low-pH gel or foam cleanser you're happy with β finish that first.
Inventory audit: Check for an open cleanser with a similar low-pH, fragrance-free profile. The 12-month PAO on this product means buying a second bottle while your current one is still usable and within date is unnecessary duplication.
Stacking assessment: No Benefit β running two low-pH gel cleansers in the same routine (one AM, one PM) does not add cleansing power; pick one.
Sourcing and Authenticity
This product is sourced through authorized Korean distributors β primarily Craver Co., Ltd (South Korea), alongside other verified distribution partners. Craver is a major Korean beauty distributor and the parent company of SKIN1004, handling authorized distribution for multiple K-beauty brands. All products are shipped directly to Mauritius via verified channels.
For comprehensive information about how we verify authenticity, our layered verification system, and how to check your product at home, visit our dedicated Authenticity and Trust page.
Quick verification tips: Check the printed batch code on the tube against the brand's manufacture-date convention; genuine units carry crisp, evenly spaced Hangul and English text on the box; be cautious of sellers not on Beauty of Joseon's official authorized-retailer list.
About Beauty of Joseon
Beauty of Joseon was founded in South Korea in 2017 and is built around "Hanbang" β traditional Korean herbal-medicine skincare philosophy β drawing on ingredients like rice, ginseng, red bean, mugwort, green plum, honey/propolis, green tea, and Centella asiatica, referenced from the historical Korean text Gyuhap Chongseo. The brand blends this traditional heritage with modern dermatological actives like niacinamide and adenosine rather than positioning itself as purely "natural." It's owned by Goodai Global (acquired the brand in 2019); its manufacturing model is multi-vendor rather than a single in-house factory, and we could not independently confirm the specific manufacturer for this cleanser.
The Green Plum line this cleanser belongs to sits alongside the brand's better-known Relief Sun (rice + probiotics sunscreen) and Ginseng anti-aging lines β all sharing the same Hanbang-ingredient-first approach rather than chasing single trendy actives.
Genuine Community Experiences
Direct verbatim reviews for this exact product could not be retrieved in this research pass (several review-hosting domains were blocked to direct page fetching in this environment), so what follows are honestly paraphrased themes drawn from search-indexed retailer review sections (Sephora, iHerb) and independent skincare blogs (whatsinmyjar.com, azurro4cielo.wordpress.com) rather than word-for-word quotes.
Common praise: Reviewers repeatedly describe the after-feel as clean but not tight, even on combination/oily skin; several mention repeat purchases (their third or fourth bottle); the faint plum scent is generally described as pleasant rather than overpowering; sensitive-skin users report no new breakouts.
Common complaints: Not effective as a standalone makeup remover, particularly around the eyes β most reviewers note they double-cleanse first for makeup/SPF days. One independent reviewer specifically flagged that the "gentle exfoliation" language shouldn't be read as a real chemical-exfoliant claim.
No Reddit thread specific to this exact SKU (r/AsianBeauty, r/SkincareAddiction) surfaced in this research pass β that doesn't mean one doesn't exist, only that our search didn't locate it this time.
Packaging and Practical Details
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Packaging | 100ml soft plastic squeeze tube |
| Closure Type | Flip-top cap |
| Hygiene Rating | Good β closed dispensing, low contamination risk vs. an open jar |
| Travel-Friendly | Yes β 100ml fits standard airline carry-on liquid limits |
Sustainability: The plastic tube is recyclable where local Mauritius facilities accept squeeze-tube plastics β check your local guidelines, as acceptance varies by material and region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this cleanser remove my sunscreen or makeup?
Light, everyday makeup β yes, reasonably well. Heavy, waterproof, or long-wear sunscreen and makeup β no, not reliably on its own; double-cleanse with an oil or balm cleanser first for those days.
Is it actually low pH, and does that matter?
Retailer copy consistently cites approximately pH 5.5, which sits close to skin's natural surface pH (roughly 4.5-5.5) rather than the higher pH of a traditional soap bar. A lower pH cleanser is generally gentler on the skin's protective acid mantle, which is the main reason dermatological guidance favors low-pH cleansers.
Does it actually exfoliate, like the "mild exfoliation" tag suggests?
Honestly, not in a way comparable to a dedicated AHA/BHA product. The plum water and mung bean extract contribute a very gentle, ingredient-rationale-level effect β treat any exfoliation benefit here as incidental, not a reason to skip a real exfoliant if that's what you need.
Is it fragrance-free?
Yes β no Parfum/Fragrance ingredient appears in the declared INCI; any scent comes from the plant extracts themselves and is faint.
Is it suitable for sensitive or fungal-acne-prone skin?
Sensitive skin: generally yes, given the fragrance-free, low-pH formulation β patch test first as always. Fungal-acne-prone skin: FA-Conditional (see the Sensory and Chemical Profile section) β the risk is low because it's rinsed off quickly, but it isn't a guaranteed-safe leave-on-grade formula either.
Glossary
- Low pH / Acid Mantle
- Skin's natural surface pH (roughly 4.5-5.5) and the protective layer it maintains. Cleansers formulated closer to this range are less likely to strip it than higher-pH soap-based cleansers.
- Hanbang
- Traditional Korean herbal-medicine philosophy applied to skincare, using ingredients like rice, ginseng, and plum drawn from historical Korean texts.
- Double Cleansing
- A two-step evening routine: an oil-based cleanser first to dissolve makeup/sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser (like this one) to remove the remaining residue and sweat.
- Isethionate Surfactant
- A mild, coconut-derived cleansing agent (e.g. Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate) that foams gently without the harsher stripping effect of sulfates like SLS.
- PAO (Period After Opening)
- The number of months a product remains safe and effective to use once opened, shown as a jar icon with a number (e.g. "12M").
- FA-Conditional (Fungal Acne)
- A formula contains at least one ingredient that some Malassezia-feeding-ingredient trackers flag as a possible trigger, but not at a level or in a format (like a quick rinse-off) considered a definite risk.
The Adilsons Promise
Every product sold by Adilsons Beauty is 100% genuine, sourced through authorized Korean distribution channels. Full details on our verification system: Authenticity and Trust.
Our team is available to help you build a routine, troubleshoot reactions, and answer ingredient questions. WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
For in-depth skincare education, visit our blog at adilsons.mu/blogs/k-beauty or subscribe to our email to get our guided education series delivered to your inbox.
Delivery and Returns β Mauritius
Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).
Processing and Timing: Orders process in 1-2 business days; usually ready by Day 3 for pickup by our delivery partners/regional team. Partner collection can take up to 1 week. After pickup, delivery typically takes 1-5 business days (weekdays only).
Express: May be available by region; request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
Liquids/Sensitive Items: Serums, toners, liquid makeup (and kits containing liquids) are pickup or door-to-door only; checkout enforces this.
Scheduling: Deliveries run by region on set schedules; we will contact you the evening before.
Pickup: Citadelle Mall pickup available.
Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges.
Refunds (Summary): For defective/damaged on receipt (report within 48h), wrong item, or manufacturing defect within 6 months. Refunds via bank transfer (7-10 business days); card refunds may incur a 5% processor fee (fee not charged for defects/order errors). Opened skincare/personal-care items are non-returnable (except if damaged on delivery).
Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. If anything differs, the policy pages are final.
Store Policies: For the most up-to-date information, please review our Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.
The Final Verdict
Best for: Anyone whose current cleanser leaves skin feeling tight or squeaky, or anyone building a simple, low-pH, fragrance-free daily cleansing step for Mauritius's humid climate.
Key benefits: Low-pH formula that avoids the over-cleansing/rebound-oil cycle; fragrance-free by INCI; brand-stated, consistently-corroborated 24% plum water and 3% mung bean extract as named actives; comfortable for sensitive skin based on the reviews we could find.
Keep in mind: Not a standalone makeup or heavy-sunscreen remover β pair with an oil/balm cleanser for those days; the "gentle exfoliation" claim is mild and ingredient-rationale-based, not a real chemical-exfoliant substitute; exact pH is retailer-stated rather than lab-confirmed by Adilsons.
Oncology and Treatment-Sensitized Skin
Assessment: Suitable, with the usual caution any new product deserves during treatment.
This cleanser is fragrance-free by declared INCI, contains no retinoids, and uses a glycol-based preservative system (Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol) rather than more aggressive formaldehyde-releasing preservatives β all factors that make it a lower-irritation-risk option for skin sensitized by chemotherapy or radiation treatment. It is not a medical or hypoallergenic-certified product, and individual sensitized skin can react unpredictably even to gentle formulas.
Consult your oncology care team before introducing any new skincare products during treatment.
Environmental Defense and Lifestyle Factors (Hard water and pollution)
Hard water interaction: This is a water-based cleanser rather than a pH-adjusting toner, so it does not actively counteract hard-water mineral residue β but its low-pH surfactant system is also less likely to react with calcium/magnesium ions to form the soap-scum-like film that traditional high-pH bar soaps can leave behind. If you're in a notably hard-water region of Mauritius, that film (a slight tightness or filmy feel even right after rinsing) is worth troubleshooting with a follow-up toner rather than assuming this cleanser itself is the cause.
Antioxidant pollution defense: Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract appears in the declared INCI, likely below the estimated 1% line at this position in the list. Green tea polyphenols are a real antioxidant category, but as a rinse-off ingredient at a low concentration, any pollution-defense contribution here is minor and incidental β don't rely on a cleanser for antioxidant protection; that's a job for a leave-on serum.