Description
What it is
Clean It Zero Original is the pink jar most people picture when they hear the words “Korean cleansing balm.” It is the first step of a double cleanse: a solid balm that turns into a slippery oil as you massage it over dry skin, so it can dissolve foundation, mascara, lip colour and sunscreen before you wash with a water-based cleanser.
Banila Co positions the Original as its all-skin-types formula and says its “Zero Balance” approach is designed to clean without leaving skin feeling tight. Compared with the other balms in the range, it is the simplest recipe: a light ester base with a short list of plant extracts, rather than a heavy dose of oils or targeted actives. That makes it the usual starting point if you have never used a balm before.
Key ingredients
- Ethylhexyl palmitate and cetyl ethylhexanoate: lightweight emollient esters that do most of the makeup-dissolving work and give the balm its quick melt
- PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate and PEG-10 isostearate: emulsifiers that let the oil turn milky with water so it rinses off instead of sitting on the skin
- Malpighia glabra (acerola) fruit extract: a vitamin C–rich fruit extract the brand highlights; at this position in the list it plays a supporting role
- Tocopheryl acetate: a stable form of vitamin E that acts as an antioxidant in the formula
- Onsen-Sui (hot spring water): mineral water the brand features across the Clean It Zero line
- Lithospermum erythrorhizon root extract: a traditional plant extract that also gives the balm part of its pink tint
Product details
| Brand | Banila Co (South Korea) |
|---|---|
| Line | Clean It Zero |
| Size | 100 ml (also sold in 25 ml and 180 ml) |
| Format | Solid balm that melts into an oil; spatula included |
| Main concerns | Makeup and sunscreen removal, first step of a double cleanse |
| Skin types | Normal, combination and most other skin types |
| When to use | Evening, or whenever you wear makeup or water-resistant sunscreen |
| Fragrance | Contains added fragrance |
| Amazon ASIN | B07ZCQ88WD |
How to use
- Use the spatula to scoop out an almond-sized amount.
- Spread it over a dry face with dry hands and massage in small circles for about 30 to 60 seconds, including over closed eyes if you wear mascara.
- Wet your fingertips and keep massaging until the balm turns milky.
- Rinse well with lukewarm water, or wipe off with a soft damp cloth.
- Follow with a gentle water-based cleanser, then continue your routine.
Keep water out of the jar and always use the spatula; a wet balm spoils faster and becomes grainy.
Who it suits
This is the most versatile balm in the range, so it works well for normal and combination skin and for anyone who wants an easy, familiar texture for removing everyday makeup and sunscreen. If you are just building a routine, the Korean skincare routine for beginners explains where an oil cleanser fits.
Who should be careful
The Original contains added fragrance and angelica root extract, which some people with reactive skin dislike. Very sensitive skin may do better with the Calming balm, while very oily or congested skin may prefer the Pore Clarifying version. As with any oil cleanser, rinse thoroughly, because leftover residue around the hairline can contribute to clogged pores in breakout-prone people.
Patch test first. Apply a small amount to the inner forearm or behind the ear and wait 24 to 48 hours before using it on the face.
Full ingredient list
Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PEG-10 Isostearate, Synthetic Wax, Onsen-Sui, Phenoxyethanol, Butylene Glycol, Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Fragrance, Ethylhexylglycerin, Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract, Aspalathus Linearis Extract, Angelica Archangelica Root Extract, Malpighia Glabra (Acerola) Fruit Extract, Polydiethyleneglycol Adipate/IPDI Copolymer, Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Acrylates/Methoxy PEG-15 Methacrylate Copolymer
Contains fragrance. No drying alcohol in this list, and no nut oils. Some older listings omit Onsen-Sui, which suggests the recipe has been updated over time, so compare with your own jar.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Clean It Zero Original around my eyes?
Many people do use it to dissolve mascara with eyes closed. Keep it out of the eye itself, and if your eyes sting or look blurry afterwards, switch to a dedicated eye makeup remover.
Do I need a second cleanser after this balm?
It is designed as the first half of a double cleanse. A second, water-based wash removes the emulsified oil and any leftover grime, which is especially helpful for combination or oily skin.
Which Clean It Zero balm is best for beginners?
The Original is usually the default choice because it has the simplest formula and suits most skin types. The other balms add ingredients aimed at dryness, sensitivity or pores.
Is Clean It Zero Original fragrance-free?
No. Fragrance appears in the ingredient list, so look at the Calming or Pore Clarifying pages if you are comparing options.
Learn more
See where this balm fits among other picks in our best Korean skincare products in Canada guide, or read the beginner routine guide for double-cleansing basics.
Ingredient lists can change between batches and markets. Always check the box you receive. This page is an independent guide; melaxin.ca does not sell products directly.
