Talking to dry skin patients in my clinical practice they reveal that they think moisturiser is good enough. But they tend to skip the most important step in their skincare routine. However, I find that many cases of persistent dryness begin with the wrong cleanser. They can cause disrupting your skin barrier, increase moisture loss, and leave the skin feeling tight after washing. Especially  if you picked a cleanser that is too harsh for your skin type.

Usually for dry skin, I recommend gentle cleansers that remove impurities while helping maintain hydration. It also depends on your goal which can be tricky to determine sometimes but a simple tissue test does help or you can get it tested here REPIC Clinic, Korea (Seoul).

The following cleansers are products I frequently recommend because they strike the balance I look for in dry skin care: effective cleansing, barrier support, and minimal irritation.

Dr. Yongdoc's Top 4 Recommend Products for your Skin Hydration

The foundation of any skincare routine always starts with cleansing!
It’s the most essential step for all skin types.

For those with dry skin, choosing the right cleanser is especially important. Even a simple wash can leave your skin feeling tight or irritated, so gentle, hydrating formulas are key.

Try using one of the recommended cleansers below along with the proper cleansing techniques shared in the video.
These picks are gentle, moisturizing, and perfect for keeping dry skin soft and healthy.

DRY SKIN CLEANSING PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION

BANILA CO

Clean It ZERO Original Cleansing Balm

SULWHASOO

Gentle Cleansing Oil

AVENE

Cleanance Mildly Acidic Cleansing Gel

TORRIDEN

DIVE IN Cleansing Foam

Why Choosing the Right Cleanser Matters

When it comes to cleansing power, the order is:

Balm-type cleansers offer the strongest cleansing effect and foam type being the most gentle.

Different cleansers suit different skin needs. The best choice depends on your skin type, concerns, and daily routine.

*While cleansing power is important, using a product that does not stress the skin is much more helpful for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.

Pick the Right Cleanser Can Make a Significant Difference

Dry skin is not always caused by a lack of moisturiser. In many cases, it begins with using a cleanser that removes more than just dirt and impurities. Choosing a formula that supports your skin barrier can help reduce tightness, minimise moisture loss, and improve overall skin comfort.

While cleansing balms, oils, gels, and foams each have their place, the best option depends on your skin type, daily habits, and skincare goals. Understanding these differences can help you make more informed choices and avoid products that may worsen dryness over time.

If you continue to experience persistent dryness, irritation, or signs of a compromised skin barrier despite using appropriate skincare products, a professional skin assessment may help identify the underlying cause. At REPIC Clinic in Seoul, we regularly evaluate skin conditions and recommend personalized skincare approaches based on each patient's individual needs.

FAQ: Dry Skin Care