Torriden Balanceful Cleansing Gel: Low-pH Daily Face Cleanser

Torriden's Balanceful Cleansing Gel is the brand's daily-use cleanser built on a low-pH, sulfate-light philosophy. Korean skincare increasingly recognizes that aggressive cleansing is the root of many skin problems: barrier damage, dehydration, and the reactive inflammation that leads to breakouts and redness. Torriden's approach here is to cleanse at the skin's natural pH (roughly 5.5), removing sunscreen and daily buildup without stripping the acid mantle that protects against external stressors.

At $24.38 for 200ml, this is mid-range for Korean cleansers, sitting between COSRX's minimalist tier ($15) and Sulwhasoo's luxury tier ($45+). The 200ml size makes it practical for multi-person households or daily dedicated face-only use. Format is gel, which is gentler than foaming cleansers on the barrier but still effective at removing water-based daily grime. For full double cleanse, pair with an oil or balm first step on SPF days.

What It Does

The gel cleanses at skin-matched pH, dissolving residual makeup, SPF, and sebum buildup without disrupting the barrier. Moisturizing components in the vehicle reduce the post-cleanse tightness common to stripping cleansers. Over weeks of consistent use, skin barrier improves, reactivity decreases, and texture evens. Result: skin that feels clean but not squeaky, and is more tolerant of subsequent actives in the routine.

Who It's For

• Barrier-damaged skin: Recovering from aggressive cleansing or over-exfoliation.
• Sensitive or reactive skin: Low reactivity formulation.
• Daily second-cleanse step: After oil cleansing on SPF days.
• Combination skin: Cleanses without over-stripping dry areas.
• Acne-prone skin: Avoids the barrier damage that aggravates acne.

Key Specs

• Volume: 200ml
• Price: $24.38
• pH: approximately 5.5, skin-matched
• Texture: clear gel, minimal lather
• Fragrance: low, minimal
• Surfactant profile: mild, non-sulfate-heavy

How to Use

For second cleanse in double-cleanse routine: apply after oil or balm cleanser. Dispense a small amount onto damp palms, work into a light lather, massage onto wet skin for 30 to 60 seconds. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. For single cleanse on low-product days: works standalone. Follow with toner and the rest of your routine. Use AM and PM.

For barrier-damaged skin recovery: switch from foaming/stripping cleansers to this gel exclusively for 2 to 4 weeks. Skip actives during the first week. Rebuild the barrier first, reintroduce actives gradually.

FAQ

Is this strong enough to remove makeup and SPF?

For water-based makeup and light SPF: yes, standalone. For waterproof makeup or heavy SPF: no, use an oil or balm first cleanse, then this gel as the second step. Don't try to remove heavy oil-based products with a water-based gel alone; it either fails or requires aggressive rubbing that damages the barrier.

Torriden Balanceful vs COSRX Low pH Good Morning?

Both are low-pH gel cleansers. COSRX is cheaper with simpler formulation. Torriden is more refined with a Centella-adjacent soothing base. For budget minimalist: COSRX. For slightly more premium with barrier support: Torriden.

Does it dry out the skin?

Minimal drying. The low-pH formulation and mild surfactants don't strip. Some post-cleanse freshness is normal; persistent tightness means you're still over-cleansing somehow (too hot water, too long contact time, or too aggressive massage).

Can I use this with acids or retinol later?

Yes. Gentle cleansing preserves the barrier that actives depend on. Aggressive cleansing plus strong actives is the most common cause of irritation in Korean skincare routines. Pairing gentle cleanser with potent actives is the correct approach.

How long does 200ml last?

With twice-daily face-only use at pea-sized application: 3 to 4 months. For the size, strong value.

Related Products

Pair with Torriden Dive In Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Water for quick-cleanse days, or Torriden Dive-In Hyaluronic Acid Soothing Cream as the matching-brand moisturizer.

Browse the full Torriden collection or related: Korean cleansers.