Bija Trouble Facial Foam
Bija Trouble Facial Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A cooling, clarifying foam cleanser formulated with Jeju Bija (Torreya Nucifera) Seed Oil and Salicylic Acid (BHA) to deeply cleanse pores, remove excess sebum, and soothe troubled, acne-prone skin without stripping moisture.
Jeju Bija Seed Oil
Sourced from the Torreya Nucifera tree native to Jeju Island, this botanical oil helps soothe irritated skin and improve overall skin resilience.
Texture & feel
SENSORYJeju Bija Seed Oil
Sourced from the Torreya Nucifera tree native to Jeju Island, this botanical oil helps soothe irritated skin and improve overall skin resilience.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Oil-soluble exfoliant that penetrates inside pores to dissolve sebum buildup, unclog blackheads, and reduce inflammation.
Cooling Menthol
Delivers a refreshing, cooling sensation upon application that helps calm irritated skin and leaves face feeling revitalized after cleansing.
Rich Dense Foam
A small amount builds into a thick, creamy lather that effectively lifts away dirt, excess oil, and makeup residue without over-stripping.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA). While concentrations in rinse-off products are typically low (<0.5%), many healthcare providers advise caution during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Contains fatty acids (Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid) and Glyceryl Stearate that may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers even as a rinse-off product.
Clinically tested as noncomedogenic by innisfree. As a rinse-off cleanser, comedogenic risk of individual ingredients is significantly reduced.
No animal-derived ingredients. Not tested on animals. Certified vegan and cruelty-free by innisfree.
Free of SLS and SLES. Uses gentler surfactants like Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Coco-Glucoside for a mild yet effective cleanse.
Contains natural essential oils (Juniper, Pine, Lavender, Lime) and fragrance compounds (Limonene, Linalool) that may irritate very sensitive skin. Patch test recommended.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTorreya Nucifera (Bija) Seed Oil 0.5%Promising
The signature ingredient sourced from the Bija tree (Japanese Nutmeg-Yew) native to Jeju Island. Traditionally used in Korean folk medicine for its skin-soothing and antibacterial properties.
- Function: Emollient that helps soothe troubled skin, address visible imperfections, and improve skin resilience
- Concentration: Listed at 5,000 ppm (0.5%) per innisfree formulation data
- Research: Studies suggest antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, though large-scale clinical data in skincare is still limited
Salicylic Acid (BHA) <0.5%Proven
Gold-standard beta hydroxy acid for acne-prone skin. Oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and dissolve sebum plugs from within.
- Function: Exfoliant, anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, and preservative
- Research: FDA-recognized OTC acne treatment at 0.5–2% concentrations. Effective for blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne
- Note: In this rinse-off cleanser, contact time is brief, providing gentle daily exfoliation without over-drying
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract 0.2–0.7%Promising
A natural source of salicin, a precursor to salicylic acid. Works synergistically with salicylic acid to provide gentle exfoliation and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, gentle natural exfoliant
- Source: Derived from white willow bark, used for centuries in traditional medicine
- Synergy: Complements salicylic acid for enhanced pore-clearing without increased irritation
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil ~1%Proven
Rich in ricinoleic acid (85–95%), a unique fatty acid with anti-inflammatory and moisture-binding properties that helps prevent the cleanser from over-stripping skin.
- Function: Emollient, anti-inflammatory, helps replenish moisture during cleansing
- Research: Ricinoleic acid has documented anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties
Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract <1%Promising
Cocoa extract rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that help protect skin from environmental stress while providing a subtle soothing effect during cleansing.
- Function: Antioxidant, skin conditioning
- Benefit: Helps replenish moisture alongside castor oil for a non-stripping cleanse
34 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycol Distearate, Palmitic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Coco-Glucoside, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Decyl Glucoside, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Menthol, Sodium Metaphosphate, Torreya Nucifera Seed Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Limonene, Juniperus Communis Fruit Oil, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Oil, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia Oil, Dextrin, Theobroma Cacao Extract, Linalool, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Artemisia Vulgaris Oil, Salicylic Acid, Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil, Rosa Centifolia Flower Extract, Cupressus Sempervirens Leaf/Nut/Stem Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in a double cleanse (PM) or as a standalone cleanser (AM). Apply to wet skin morning and evening for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face to prepare your skin. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and cause irritation.
Lather in Palms
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto clean palms. Add a few drops of water and rub hands together to build a rich, dense foam.
Massage Gently
Apply the foam to your face using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Focus on oily areas like the T-zone, nose, and chin.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with your toner and skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with excess sebum
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You want a BHA cleanser for daily use without over-drying
- You enjoy a cooling, refreshing cleansing experience
- You prefer K-beauty products with natural botanical ingredients
- You need an affordable acne-fighting foam cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (may feel tight after use)
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains triggering fatty acids
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
- You are extremely sensitive to menthol or essential oils
- You prefer fragrance-free products (contains natural essential oils)
- You need a high-strength BHA treatment (this is a mild daily cleanser)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Salicylic acid and menthol control excess sebum and leave skin matte without residue. 96% agreed it removed excess sebum after one use.
Great for tackling the oily T-zone without over-drying cheeks. Users report it controls oil while maintaining balance across different face zones.
Formulated specifically for troubled skin. BHA clears pores, Bija oil soothes inflammation. Noncomedogenic tested. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Not recommended. Multiple reviewers with dry skin reported tightness and dryness after use. The BHA and menthol can exacerbate dehydration.
Contains menthol and essential oils (Limonene, Linalool) that may trigger reactions. Patch test recommended. Some sensitive users tolerate it fine.
Results timeline
MONTH 1–2Immediate Deep Cleanse
Skin feels visibly cleaner, refreshed, and matte after the first wash. The cooling menthol sensation provides instant relief to irritated skin.
96% agreed it removed excess sebumReduced Oiliness & Smoother Texture
Daily BHA exfoliation begins to unclog surface-level pore congestion. T-zone oiliness is noticeably reduced throughout the day.
85% noticed reduced shineSmoother Skin Texture
Consistent use yields visibly smoother skin texture. Blackheads become less prominent and minor breakouts begin to subside.
93% saw smoother skin textureClearer, Calmer Complexion
With continued use, breakout frequency decreases and overall skin looks clearer and more balanced. Pores appear visibly refined.
80% reported fewer breakoutsRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively removes excess sebum and deep cleans pores
- A little goes a long way — pea-sized amount creates rich foam
- Affordable for a K-beauty BHA cleanser (~$12 for 150ml)
- Cooling, refreshing sensation feels great on oily/acne skin
- Sulfate-free, vegan, cruelty-free formulation
- Noncomedogenic tested — suitable for acne-prone skin
- Reduces redness and calms painful inflammatory acne
- Tube lasts months with twice-daily use
Criticized
- Can feel tight and drying for dry or dehydrated skin types
- Strong menthol/herbal scent may bother sensitive noses
- Contains essential oils — not ideal for very reactive skin
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acid content
- Some users experienced initial purging breakouts
- Salicylic acid concentration is low — not a treatment-level BHA
- Not suitable for pregnant/breastfeeding women
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar BHA foam cleanser base with Tea Tree Oil instead of Bija Oil. Uses Willow Bark Extract (natural BHA source). Fragrance-free formula makes it better for sensitive skin. 150ml.
Uses Betaine Salicylate (gentler BHA derivative) instead of Salicylic Acid. Gel texture rather than foam. Lower pH and milder formula, better for sensitive skin. 150ml.
Triple-acid approach (AHA + BHA + PHA) with Tea Tree Water. More exfoliating power but also higher irritation potential. Contains Centella Asiatica for soothing. 100ml — smaller size.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed after use to prevent contamination.
Squeezable tube with pinhole opening for controlled dispensing. Recyclable via TerraCycle innisfree program.
Yes — 150ml exceeds carry-on limits, but a small amount goes a long way. Decant into a travel container or check in luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution is advised. This cleanser contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which many healthcare professionals recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While the concentration is low and it is a rinse-off product (minimal skin absorption), you should consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before using any BHA-containing product during pregnancy. Alternatives like gentle, fragrance-free cleansers without BHA are generally considered safer.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several fatty acids (Myristic Acid, Lauric Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid) and esters (Glyceryl Stearate) that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially trigger fungal acne flare-ups. Even though it is a rinse-off product, those with confirmed fungal acne should choose a cleanser free of these triggering ingredients. Consider the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser as a fungal acne-safe alternative.
Yes, with care. Since this is a rinse-off cleanser with a low concentration of BHA, it is generally safe to use alongside other actives. However, if you are using strong retinol, prescription retinoids, or leave-on AHA/BHA treatments, introducing this cleanser may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. Start by using it once daily and monitor your skin. If you experience excessive dryness or peeling, reduce frequency or alternate with a gentler cleanser.
This cleanser is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling excess sebum, unclogging pores, and calming breakouts. It is not recommended for dry or very sensitive skin, as the BHA, menthol, and essential oils may cause tightness or irritation. Combination skin users find it particularly effective for managing oily T-zones without over-drying other areas.
You can expect to notice cleaner, less oily skin immediately after the first use. Visible improvement in skin texture and reduced pore congestion typically appears within 1–2 weeks of consistent AM/PM use. Clinical studies showed 93% of participants noticed smoother skin texture after 2 weeks. For significant acne improvement and fewer breakouts, allow 4–8 weeks of regular use.
Use it as the second step in a double cleanse (after an oil-based cleanser in the PM), or as your sole cleanser in the AM. Apply it to wet skin, massage gently for 30–60 seconds, then rinse off. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It should always be the last cleansing step before your treatment products.
This product has been clinically tested as noncomedogenic by innisfree. While it does contain some ingredients with moderate comedogenic ratings (such as Myristic Acid rated 3 and Lauric Acid rated 4), as a rinse-off cleanser these ingredients are not left on the skin long enough to clog pores. Our overall comedogenic rating is 2/5. The vast majority of users, including acne-prone individuals, do not experience clogged pores from this product.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. The 150ml tube typically lasts 2–4 months with twice-daily use, as only a pea-sized amount is needed per wash. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. Discard if you notice any change in color, scent, or texture.
Verdict: The innisfree Bija Trouble Facial Foam is an excellent, affordable K-beauty foam cleanser for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Its blend of Jeju Bija Seed Oil, Salicylic Acid, and Willow Bark Extract delivers effective daily pore-cleansing with a satisfying cooling sensation. It earns high marks for sebum control, value for money, and clean formulation (vegan, sulfate-free, paraben-free). Points are deducted for its drying effect on dry skin types, essential oil content that limits suitability for very sensitive skin, and its failure to meet fungal acne safety standards. If you have oily or acne-prone skin and enjoy a refreshing cleanse, this is one of the best options at its price point.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauric Acid
Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|