Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil Review

Over the past couple of years (hello, lockdown era!) I have tried multiple cleansing oils. As I age and understand my skin better, my preference for my skincare routine has also changed. I really prefer gentle skincare products with a mix of loaded and potent actives in my routine, as evident from my nightly Tretinoin routine. But, since we are focusing on cleansers first, I would like to bring your attention to the one that I really really really like – Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil. My appreciation for Korean skincare products runs high since I was first introduced to its potential. But do not rely on my simping, and read details for yourself.

WHAT IS IT?

A luxurious oil-based cleanser that combines traditional Korean herbs with botanical oils to remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities while nourishing the skin.

HOW I USE IT?

I massage 2-3 pumps onto dry skin for 60 seconds, then emulsify with water and rinse thoroughly, using it as the first step in my evening double-cleanse routine.

BEST SUITED FOR

This cleansing oil is ideal for normal to dry skin types.

PACKAGING

The oil comes in an elegant amber bottle with a sturdy pump dispenser. The packaging feels luxurious and substantial.

SCENT

The oil carries a distinct herbal fragrance that’s characteristic of Sulwhasoo products, sort of ginseng and traditional Korean herbs you get to experience during a spa. While noticeable during application, the scent is calming and dissipates quickly.

TEXTURE

The oil has a medium viscosity that spreads beautifully across the skin without feeling heavy or dragging. Upon contact with water, it transforms into a milky emulsion that rinses away effortlessly.

SALE and PRICE

3000 INR for 200 ml

40 USD for 200 ml

WHERE TO BUY

India – Nykaa

US – Amazon

UK – YesStyle

INGREDIENTS

Here is the full ingredient list of Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil –

Ingredient	Type/Function
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate	emollient, antimicrobial/antibacterial
Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate	emollient, viscosity controlling
Isopropyl Palmitate	emollient
Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate	emollient, emulsifying, surfactant/cleansing
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride	emollient
PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate	emollient, emulsifying
PEG-8 Isostearate	emulsifying
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil	emollient, perfuming
Fragrance/Parfum	perfuming
Dextrin Palmitate	emulsifying, surfactant/cleansing
Limonene	perfuming, solvent
Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate	emollient, emulsifying
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate	emollient
Squalane	skin-identical ingredient, emollient
Linalool	perfuming
Water/Aqua/Eau	solvent
Butylene Glycol	moisturizer/humectant, solvent
Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil	emollient
Pinus Koraiensis Seed Oil	perfuming
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil	emollient
Camellia Japonica Seed Oil	emollient
Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Extract
Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract	skin brightening, antioxidant
Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract
Spirodela Polyrhiza Extract
Prunus Mume Seed Extract
Nelumbo Nucifera Seed Extract	antimicrobial/antibacterial, antioxidant, emollient

INCIdecoder says that most of the ingredients of Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil are good for the skin, with the exception of fragrance, Limonene, and Linalool. Both Limonene and Linalool are common and cheap perfuming agents. While the fragrance on its own (when used in really low quantities) may not be harmful, the problem with these two ingredients is that they oxidise on air exposure, and become allergenic, posing a serious threat to sensitive skinned folks like me.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Opening the bottle, I was immediately struck by the signature Sulwhasoo herbal scent – a sophisticated blend that transforms your cleansing routine into a spa-like experience. I dig it. The amber bottle feels weighty and expensive in hand, with a pump that dispenses just the right amount of product.

The oil’s initial application surprised me with its immediate grip on makeup and sunscreen. Unlike some cleansing oils that feel like they’re merely sitting on top of the skin, this one seems to blend with skin buildup instantly.

OVERALL EXPERIENCE

After two months of consistent use, Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil proved itself to be more than just a pretty package. It creates the perfect balance of gentle and effective cleansing experience. And, did I mention I dig the herbal spa-like fragrance? I know, I know, (added) fragrance is not good, but I, kind of, like this one.

What sets this apart from other luxury cleansing oils is its ability to remove stubborn makeup without leaving any residue or film on the skin. The emulsification process is particularly impressive – adding water transforms the oil into a milky solution that rinses completely clean. Even waterproof mascara and long-wear foundations dissolve easily with minimal massage time. What’s better yet is that my skin never feels stripped or tight after use.

However, the steep price point might not appeal to everyone. Of course, I had the perfect excuse as I was running my secret skincare project (as a human guinea pig,) and intended to document all the products I was reviewing with a potential ROI. But even then, I am sure I would not indulge in this product on a regular basis.

FINAL RATING

Packaging: 5/5

Elegant design that protects the formula from light degradation

Ingredients: 4.5/5

Well-balanced cleansing agents

Texture/Application: 5/5

Perfect viscosity for effortless spreading

Performance: 4.5/5

Removes dirt and makeup completely; leaves skin clean and balanced.

Price: 3.5/5

Cost per use is high compared to similar performing products

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Sulwhasoo’s Gentle Cleansing Oil exemplifies luxury skincare that delivers on its promises. While the price point is high, the sophisticated formulation, effective cleansing, and skin-nourishing benefits make it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate traditional Korean skincare philosophy and don’t mind paying a premium for quality.