15 Best Japanese Cleanser for Oily Skin 2023

Keep your skin free from dirt, excess sebum, and grime with the best Japanese cleanser for oily skin. If you have oily skin, it’s important to use a cleanser formulated for oily skin to avoid frequent breakouts.

Check out these Japanese cleansers specially formulated for oily skin that will remove the excess oil without completely stripping natural oils off your skin. 

The key to beginning any skincare routine is through regular cleansing. Think about it this way — can you cook a delicious meal in your skillet tomorrow, without having scrubbed the oil and leftovers accumulated by today’s food? You’re right, you can’t.

Best Japanese Cleanser for Oily Skin	Main Ingredient
Boscia Detoxifying Black Charcoal Cleanser	Charcoal and artichoke leaf extract
Biore Free Your Pores Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanse	Charcoal and salicylic acid
Rohto Mentholatum Acnes Facial Washing Cream	Vitamin C
Shiseido Uno Whip Wash Black	Charcoal and methyl hydroxide
Mandom Green Tea Facial Wash	Green Tea
DHC Face Wash Powder	Honey and sodium hyaluronate
Rosette Cleansing Paste (Pink)	kaolin and sodium hyaluronate
Bifesta Bright Up Foaming Whip	Green Tea
Senka Cleansing Perfect White Clay Facial Cleanser	White Clay

In both cases, whether it is food or skin, it’s the matter of hygiene and freshness. Through cleansing, you remove excess oil, sebum, accumulated dirt, sweat, bacteria, sunscreen and what not! And if you have oily skin, cleansers are the holy grail to your skincare routine. 

Which is the best Japanese cleanser for oily skin?

I tested several brands of Japanese cleansers to find the most suitable one for oily skin. I tested them based on parameters like cleansing power, hydrating power, ingredients, and application. I found that Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is the best Japanese cleanser for oily skin.

Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is great for oily skin as the charcoal flakes in the cleanser gets rid of excess oil and reduces blemishes on the skin as well. It is also formulated with salicylic acid which hydrates the skin and prevents further breakouts. The formulation of this Japanese charcoal cleanser also contains menthol that gives a soothing feel after wash. Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is available on Amazon .

Having a greasy, shiny face can be quite annoying, but it is not worth scrubbing aggressively or even overwashing as this might make things worse.

• Related: Best Japanese Cleanser for Acne
• Related: best Japanese acne spot treatment
• Related: Here are amazing body exfoliators from top J-beauty brands!

If you hope to bring a little peace and calm to your skin and get rid of that extra, extra shine on your skin, you’re at the right place. Hopefully, some of these suggestions will help you manage your skin and you have an oil-free skin all day!

After careful research and thoughtful curation, we bring to you a list of cleansers that we think can work wonders for your oily skin. Read on!

Top Japanese Face Wash for Oily Skin

Mentholatum Acnes

Mentholatum Acnes is a popular Japanese face wash that claims to be effective in preventing and treating acne. I have been using this product for a few weeks now and here’s my honest review.

Firstly, I really appreciate the cooling sensation that Mentholatum Acnes gives me while using it. The menthol in the product creates a refreshing and invigorating feeling on my skin, which is perfect for a morning routine or a refreshing cleanse after a long day.

Secondly, the face wash lathers up nicely and a little goes a long way. It effectively cleanses my skin without leaving it feeling stripped or dry, which is a big plus for me.

Thirdly, I have noticed a significant improvement in my acne since using this product. My breakouts have become less frequent, and the ones I do get tend to heal faster. I appreciate that the product is gentle enough to use daily but still effective in treating acne.

One thing to note is that the product does contain salicylic acid, which is a common ingredient in acne treatments. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to patch test the product before using it regularly.

Overall, I would highly recommend Mentholatum Acnes to anyone looking for an effective, refreshing, and gentle face wash that can help prevent and treat acne.

Key Features

• It provides a deep cleanse to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin.
• The active ingredients, salicylic acid and sulfur, work together to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and prevent new blemishes from forming.
• The addition of menthol provides a refreshing and cooling sensation on the skin, helping to soothe and calm any irritation or redness.
• It’s suitable for all skin types.
• It’s an affordable option for those looking for an effective anti-acne face wash.

Tonyu Isoflavone Facial Cleansing Wash

Tonyu Isoflavone Facial Cleansing Wash is a Japanese face wash that claims to provide a deep cleanse while also moisturizing and nourishing the skin. 

After using this product for a few weeks, here’s my honest review.

Firstly, I love the creamy texture of this face wash. It lathers up nicely and feels really luxurious on my skin. 

I also appreciate that it is fragrance-free, which is great for those with sensitive skin.

Secondly, the product effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving my skin feeling dry or tight. 

It feels gentle yet effective, and my skin feels clean and refreshed after each use.

Thirdly, I have noticed a significant improvement in the texture and hydration of my skin since using this product. 

The soy isoflavones and hyaluronic acid in the product work together to hydrate and nourish my skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and plump.

One thing to note is that the product does contain alcohol, which may not be suitable for those with extremely dry or sensitive skin.

Overall, I would highly recommend Tonyu Isoflavone Facial Cleansing Wash to anyone looking for a gentle yet effective face wash that can hydrate and nourish the skin. It’s a great option for those with normal to dry skin who want to achieve a healthy, radiant complexion.

Key Features

• Made with soy milk fermented with lactic acid bacteria, which helps to gently cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture.
• Contains isoflavones, a type of antioxidant found in soybeans, that can help to improve skin elasticity and prevent premature aging.
• Has a creamy texture that lathers up nicely and feels luxurious on the skin.
• Helps to remove makeup, dirt, and oil from the skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed.
• Free of fragrance, mineral oil, and parabens, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.
• Can be used daily as part of a regular skincare routine.
• Comes in a convenient pump bottle for easy use in the shower or at the sink.
• Made in Japan, known for its high-quality skincare products.

AHA Wash Cleansing Research

AHA Wash Cleansing Research is a Japanese face wash that claims to gently exfoliate and brighten the skin with its blend of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). I have been using this product for a few weeks now and here’s my honest review.

Firstly, I appreciate the lightweight gel texture of this face wash. It lathers up nicely and effectively removes dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving my skin feeling dry or stripped.

Secondly, I have noticed a significant improvement in the brightness and clarity of my skin since using this product. 

The AHAs in the product gently exfoliate my skin, revealing a smoother and more even-toned complexion. 

However, I did experience a slight tingling sensation upon initial use, which may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.

Thirdly, the product contains ingredients like glycerin and allantoin, which help to hydrate and soothe the skin. My skin feels soft and moisturized after each use.

One thing to note is that the product does contain fragrance, which may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin or a preference for fragrance-free products.

Overall, I would recommend AHA Wash Cleansing Research to anyone looking for a gentle yet effective exfoliating face wash that can brighten and hydrate the skin. It’s a great option for those with normal to oily skin who want to achieve a brighter, more even complexion.

Key Features

• Contains alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to gently exfoliate the skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.
• Helps to brighten and even out the complexion by promoting cell turnover and reducing the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
• Infused with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate and nourish the skin.
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Free of fragrance, colorants, and alcohol, making it gentle and non-irritating.
• Can be used daily as part of a regular skincare routine.
• Comes in a convenient pump bottle for easy use in the shower or at the sink.

Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Face Wash

Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Face Wash is a Japanese face wash that claims to provide a deep cleanse while also hydrating and plumping the skin with its blend of hyaluronic acid. After using this product for a few weeks, here’s my honest review.

Firstly, I really appreciate the gentle yet effective cleansing power of this face wash. It lathers up nicely and removes dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving my skin feeling dry or stripped. It also has a mild scent that is not overpowering.

hada labo gokujyun face wash. it contains hyaluronic acid that helps making your skin moisturized. pic.twitter.com/eVbHogWoME

— MAD ICE TEE ⁹⁹ (@xiubaohyung) May 27, 2018

Secondly, the product contains three types of hyaluronic acid, which work together to deeply hydrate and plump the skin. 

I have noticed a significant improvement in the hydration and texture of my skin since using this product. My skin feels softer, smoother, and more supple after each use.

Thirdly, the product is free of fragrances, mineral oil, and alcohol, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.

One thing to note is that the product does contain sodium laureth sulfate, which may not be suitable for those with extremely sensitive skin.

Overall, I would highly recommend Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Face Wash to anyone looking for a gentle yet effective face wash that can hydrate and plump the skin. It’s a great option for those with normal to dry skin who want to achieve a healthy, radiant complexion.

Key Features

• Contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, helping to hydrate and plump the skin.
• Has a low pH level of 5.5, which is gentle and non-drying on the skin’s natural barrier.
• Provides a gentle but thorough cleanse, removing dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
• Free of fragrance, colorants, and mineral oil, making it gentle and non-irritating.

Biore Ouchi de Esthe Massage Cleansing Face Gel 

The Biore Ouchi de Esthe Massage Cleansing Face Gel is a popular skincare product that promises to provide a thorough cleansing and massage experience for your face. 

Here is my review of this product:

Firstly, I found the packaging of the product to be very attractive and easy to use. The gel comes in a small, portable tube that is easy to squeeze and dispense just the right amount of product. 

The gel itself is transparent and has a pleasant, refreshing scent.

When I applied the gel to my face, I found that it lathered up nicely and felt very gentle on my skin. 

The massage beads in the gel helped to exfoliate my skin and remove any dead skin cells, leaving my skin feeling soft and smooth.

I particularly liked the fact that this product did not leave my skin feeling tight or dry after use, which can often be a problem with other facial cleansers. Instead, my skin felt moisturized and refreshed, with a healthy glow.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Biore Ouchi de Esthe Massage Cleansing Face Gel to anyone looking for an effective and gentle facial cleanser. It is a great product for those with sensitive skin or those who want to enjoy a relaxing massage while cleansing their skin.

Key Features

• Thorough Cleansing: The product provides a thorough cleansing experience, removing dirt, oil, and makeup from your face.
• Gentle on Skin: The gel is gentle on the skin, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin.
• Massage Beads: The massage beads in the gel help to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth.
• Refreshing Scent: The gel has a pleasant, refreshing scent that leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
• Moisturizing: The product does not leave your skin feeling tight or dry after use. Instead, it leaves your skin feeling moisturized and refreshed.
• Portable Packaging: The product comes in a small, portable tube that is easy to use and perfect for travel.
• Easy to Use: The gel lathers up easily and is easy to apply and rinse off.
• Suitable for Daily Use: The product can be used daily and is suitable for all skin types.

Boscia Detoxifying Black Charcoal Cleanser

The one on this list of the best Japanese cleanser for oily skin is the Boscia Detoxifying Black Charcoal Cleanser. This is one of the more interesting and effective cleansers.

The star ingredient of this cleanser, charcoal, draws out all the excess oil and impurities as it detoxifies and cleanses the skin. The cleanser itself heats up upon contact with the skin and starts working to de-clog the pores. The artichoke leaf extract plays a major role in improving the elasticity and tightening of the pore walls. 

This detoxifying charcoal cleanser is rich in Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C, both excellent in improving skin texture, brightening and clarifying skin as a whole. This cleanser is a gift that keeps on giving — a single pea-sized drop goes a long way.

Key Features:

• Thoroughly cleanses but does not rip the skin off of moisture
• Dissolves oil
• De-clogs pore
• Minimizes the appearance of pores
• Refines skin texture
• Brightens skin clarity

Related: You cannot miss out on this cosmetics from the top J-beauty brands

Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser

If you’re in a love affair with the post-wash soothing and cooling sensation on your skin, Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is the best Japanese cleanser for oily skin for you!

This soft gel cleanser has an abundance of charcoal flakes that removes every ounce of excess oil, dirt and acts well on your blemishes. Another ingredient that works fabulously with charcoal is the salicylic acid — while the charcoal itself absorbs all oil, the acid goes deep inside and prevents any further breakouts or damage, a problem common with oily skin.

The menthol in the cleanser ensures a squeaky-clean tingling feeling, a perfect way to begin or end your day — the results are undeniable.

Key Features

• Deep cleaning
• Absorbs excess oil
• Gives a cooling sensation
• Refines and tones pores

Related: Best Japanese body scrubs

Rohto Mentholatum Acnes Facial Washing Cream

The next one on this list of best Japanese cleanser for oily skin is the Rohto mentholatum Acnes Facial Washing Cream. If you’re on a budget, this is the cleanser for you.

The Mentholatum Acnes Cleanser has antibacterial properties that act as a knight in shining armor for your skin, that becomes a battleground for pimple-causing bacteria, fighting their way in.

This is quite often a medically recommended face wash that does its job — take out sebum and rebuild skin cells. This cream-based cleanser is rich in Vitamin C that helps regain the bright and lively textures and smoothens all fine lines.

Key Features

• Antibacterial properties
• Hypoallergenic
• Economical
• Vitamin C properties help in regulating skin colour

Related: Best Japanese whitening products

Shiseido Uno Whip Wash Black

Shiseido is considered to be one of the best skincare brands in the world. This quick foaming cleanser is rich in natural clay cleansing ingredients. The face cleanser acts by sucking out all the excess oil and sebum from the pores, leaving your skin feeling refreshed, taut and smooth. A coin-sized amount will do the trick!

This face cleanser can also act a little bit like a scrub but don’t worry, it’s quite gentle on your face. This face cleanser also goes to the lengths of calming down new pimples. 

Key Features:

• Absorbing and skin refining properties
• Foaming cleanser
• Rich in charcoal 
• Has scrubbing properties

Check out this best Japanese cleanser for oily skin. 

Related: Best Japanese collagen supplements

Mandom Green Tea Facial Wash

It’s all in the name — green tea. This ingredient is exclusively known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is that missing piece in the puzzle for effectively reducing sebum and oil excretions in the skin. Through the absorption, it successfully gives a silky smooth feeling without compromising on moisture. 

A pea-sized amount will go a long way. This Mandom face wash has a creamy texture with gentle sand-like granule that leaves your skin feeling clean and refreshed immediately. Those tiny granules act like micro-exfoliants that inhibit sebum production and shrink pores on the skin.

Key Features:

• Green tea extracts have multiple benefits
• It acts as a mild exfoliant along with being a cleanser
• Leaves skin feeling cool and refreshed

Check out this best Japanese cleanser for oily skin. 

Related: Best Japanese body lotions

DHC Face Wash Powder

Can a powder really be a face wash? It’s not surprising that it is a DHC product. DHC has been coming up with innovative products since it’s existence. This cleanser turns into a rich, dense foam as soon as it comes in contact with a few drops of water.

This powder is beyond impressive — it is rich in multiple cleaning and revitalizing agents. DHC’s Face Wash Powder includes exfoliating protease enzymes that dissolve the accumulating dulling skin cells. This gentle cleanser has honey and sodium hyaluronate that help soften the texture of the skin. It washes away all the dirt and oil from the face in an unbelievably small quantity.

Key Features:

• Dissolves dead skin cells
• Has antibacterial properties
• Paraben-free
• Acts as a gentle exfoliator

Check out this best Japanese cleanser for oily skin. 

Related: Best Japanese sunscreens

Rosette Cleansing Paste (Pink)

The next one on this list of the best Japanese cleanser for oily skin is the Rosette cleansing paste. This little pretty pink tube has it all! The combination of ingredients in this cleanser are quite extraordinary. The kaolin and sodium hyaluronate work together to detoxify the skin and provide the much-needed boost of moisture as the oil and sebum from the skin is being washed off.

Don’t let the thick consistency of the cleanser create judgement calls in your mind. A small amount, combined with water and rubbed into your hands turns into a rich lather for a comfortable cleanse. The cleanser proves to be extremely effective in removing external agents such as make-up and thick sunscreens with ease.  

Key Features:

• Fragrance-free
• Viscosity of a mask
• Cleans all excess oil and sebum
• Dense foam cleanser

Bifesta Bright Up Foaming Whip

Bifesta Bright up is one of the best Japanese cleansers for oily skin. It contains green tea extracts that controls excess sebum, removes impurities and tightens the skin. It’s free of additives and suits the skin easily. 

All you need to do is take a pea-sized amount of the foam whip and gently massage your face with it to notice the brightened up glow. It doesn’t let you breakout and also disrupt your natural facial oil. 

Key features: 

• Affordable
• Formulated with green tea
• Brightens skin
• Removes impurities and excess sebum

Senka Cleansing Perfect White Clay Facial Cleanser

Senka by Shiseido is a foam type transparent cleanser that is great for oily skin types. It’s formulated with white clay that cleanses the pores and effectively removes the dead skin cells. It’s one of the best cleansers by Shiseido to use for oily skin types. 

I’ve an extremely oily T-zone and I’ve been using this cleanser for a good while. My natural sebum is balanced and my skin glows all the time. It’s also extremely affordable being a product from Shiseido

Key features: 

• Transparent gel type
• Uses white clay 
• Removes impurities and dead skin cells
• Affordable

How to choose a Japanese cleanser for oily skin?

Choosing the right Japanese cleanser for oily skin can be a bit of a challenge, but here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

Look for a cleanser with gentle ingredients

It’s important to choose a cleanser that is gentle on your skin, even if you have oily skin. Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol and sulfates, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation.

Consider a foaming cleanser

Foaming cleansers are great for oily skin because they can help to remove excess oil and dirt without over-drying the skin. Look for a foaming cleanser that is designed for oily skin.

Look for oil-balancing ingredients

Some Japanese cleansers contain ingredients that can help to balance the skin’s oil production. Look for cleansers that contain ingredients like green tea, charcoal, or clay, which can help to absorb excess oil and unclog pores.

Avoid heavy or creamy cleansers

Heavy or creamy cleansers can be too rich for oily skin, so it’s best to avoid them. Instead, look for lightweight, water-based cleansers that won’t leave a greasy residue.

Consider your skin type and concerns

While oily skin may be your main concern, you may also have other skin concerns like acne or sensitivity. Choose a cleanser that is tailored to your specific needs.

Read product reviews

Reading product reviews from other people with oily skin can be a helpful way to narrow down your options and find a cleanser that works well for you.

Overall, it’s important to choose a gentle yet effective Japanese cleanser that is specifically designed for oily skin. By following these tips and doing your research, you can find a cleanser that helps to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

Ingredients to Look For When Buying Japanese Face Wash for Oily Skin:

If you’re a victim of oily skin, you’re no stranger to shiny foreheads and the constant greasy feeling you have on your face. Well, there are ways you can regulate the production of oil on your face, provided you choose the right products. And the best Japanese cleanser for oily skin, you’ll notice, will have most of these ingredients. Here are the list of ingredients you  should look out for —

Niacinamide:

Niacinamide, in other words, Vitamin B3 is a magical ingredient that not only minimizes the size of your pores and regulates oil production, but it also hydrates and improves the elasticity of your skin. It works best when coupled with Hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated, supple and most of all, oil-free! 

Glycolic Acid:

Glycolic acid penetrates deeply into the skin to resolve issues from within. Due to the seeping nature of this ingredient, it cleans out the pores and prevents it from clogging. Glycolic Acid also makes for an excellent exfoliator. Keep your skin healthy inside out. 

Salicylic Acid:

It is one of the best ingredients in existence to battle oil production on the skin. People with oily skin face the issue of breakouts which can be controlled by using products with salicylic acid in it. It ploughs through the top layer of skin to fight oil production and dead skin cells. 

Does oily skin need an oil based cleanser?

Oily skin can benefit from using an oil-based cleanser as it can dissolve and remove excess oil and sebum. Some oil-based cleansers can also help to balance the skin’s natural oil production. However, it’s important to choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula specifically formulated for oily or acne-prone skin.

Is water or oil-based cleanser better for oily skin?

Both oil-based and water-based cleansers can be effective for oily skin, depending on your skin’s needs and preferences. Oil-based cleansers can dissolve excess oil and balance natural oil production, but may be too heavy or pore-clogging. Water-based cleansers can effectively remove impurities and excess oil without leaving a residue, and may be a good option for those prone to breakouts or clogged pores. Choose a gentle, effective cleanser specifically formulated for oily skin.

Skincare Tips for Oily skin

Other than what has been mentioned above, here are some simple steps that can play a massive role in oil control.

• Wash your face twice a day
• Use oil-free cosmetics
• After your cleansing, carefully select your moisturizer
• Be mindful of what touches your face
• Pat your face dry

Related: Here are some popular Japanese collagen products people swear by!

Time to say hello to your oil-free skin!

The best thing about these Japanese cleansers is that they focus on what’s missing from your skin while it removes oil. It is a range that keeps on giving. Oil-free skin does not have to mean one that lacks moisture. Everything is great in moderation, and these products only prove that! 

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