Cleansing is one of those steps in a skincare routine that can make or break the rest of your products.
If your skin isn’t properly prepped, even the best serums and creams won’t perform as intended. That’s what caught my attention when I came across Etude House Baking Powder BB Deep Cleansing Foam—a cleanser that has been praised in K-beauty circles for its ability to cut through makeup and daily buildup.
The promise of a deep cleanse without stripping away moisture felt almost too good to be true. I was especially curious about how it would handle BB cream, since many cleansers struggle with that stubborn layer. But does it really live up to the buzz? After weeks of use, here’s everything I discovered.
First Impressions and What Sets It Apart
Right out of the gate, the packaging feels practical—nothing flashy, just a sturdy squeeze tube that keeps things hygienic. What intrigued me most was its claim of tackling BB cream residue, which is notoriously stubborn to remove. Unlike many cleansers that stop at surface-level cleaning, this one is formulated with baking powder for a deeper cleanse and rice bran powder for gentle exfoliation.
It’s marketed as both a makeup remover and a brightening cleanser, which immediately makes it appealing if you prefer streamlined routines. At 160mL, the size is generous compared to other foams in the same category, giving the impression that it’s built for daily, long-term use.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
The key ingredient here is sodium bicarbonate (baking powder), which helps dissolve excess oils and makeup without the harshness of stronger surfactants. Pair that with rice bran powder, and you’re looking at a mild physical exfoliant that helps buff away dead skin cells while promoting brightness.
There’s also silica, which soaks up extra sebum—a win for oily or combination skin types. Glycerin is included to counteract dryness, and fatty acids like myristic acid contribute to the foamy lather that gives you that satisfying “clean” feeling.
One thing worth noting: it does contain fragrance. The citrusy scent is pleasant, but if you have sensitive skin, this could be a potential drawback.
Putting It to the Test: Texture and Results
A tiny pea-sized amount is all it takes to create a thick, cushiony foam. The texture feels luxurious without being overwhelming, and the exfoliating beads are noticeable but not harsh. The light lemon fragrance adds to the refreshing feel of the cleanse.
Performance-wise, I was impressed. It easily removed BB cream, light foundation, and sunscreen in one go. Non-waterproof mascara came off too, though for heavier or waterproof makeup, an oil cleanser beforehand would still be necessary.
After rinsing, my skin felt smooth and genuinely fresh without that overly tight, squeaky sensation that some deep cleansers leave behind. The brightening effect was immediate, though subtle—more of a refreshed glow than a dramatic change.
Who Will Love This Cleanser
This is a great match for:
- Oily and combination skin types who struggle with shine and clogged pores.
- Daily makeup wearers, especially BB cream and cushion foundation fans.
- Budget-conscious shoppers who want a large-size product that lasts for months.
It may not be the best choice if you:
- Have very dry or sensitive skin, as it could feel a little too clarifying.
- Need a product to remove heavy, waterproof makeup in one step.
- Prefer fragrance-free formulations.
How to Use It for Best Results
To maximize its benefits, foam it up in your hands before applying—it makes the beads gentler and helps distribute the product more evenly. Oily skin types can use it daily, while normal skin may benefit from using it 3–4 times a week to avoid over-exfoliation.
A pro tip? Follow with a hydrating toner or essence. This helps restore balance after cleansing and ensures your skin doesn’t lean too alkaline from the baking powder.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros
- Rich foam with very little product needed
- Removes BB cream and light makeup effectively
- Gentle exfoliation from rice bran powder
- Large size offers good value
Cons
- Contains fragrance (not great for sensitive skin)
- May feel too clarifying for dry skin
- Doesn’t fully remove waterproof makeup
Is It Worth It?
After consistent testing, I’d say the Etude House Baking Powder BB Deep Cleansing Foam delivers on most of its promises. It cleans deeply, leaves skin feeling refreshed, and even offers a mild brightening boost. While it isn’t a perfect match for every skin type, it’s a reliable and affordable cleanser that excels at what it sets out to do.
For me, it earns a solid 4.2/5 stars. If you’re looking for a hardworking, budget-friendly cleanser that can handle daily makeup and give your skin a little glow-up, this one is definitely worth considering.
And since it’s part of Amazon’s Beauty and Health* category, it’s easy to explore other skincare essentials while you’re at it. You might just discover the next product your routine has been missing.
