K-SECRET SEOUL 1988 Cleansing Oil: Pine Cica Plus Probiotics for Sensitive Barrier Skin

This is K-SECRET's Seoul 1988 line cleansing oil, built on pine cica (Pinus densiflora, Korean red pine) extract at 1% plus probiotics for microbiome support. The "1988" references a brand heritage year. Pine cica is a less-common but credible alternative to the standard centella asiatica cica extract, with its own profile of anti-inflammatory and calming compounds including pinosylvin and pinene derivatives. The probiotic addition targets skin microbiome balance, which matters increasingly in sensitive-skin formulations. At $39.52 for 200ml, this sits in the mid-premium cleansing oil range.

Probiotic skincare is a complicated category. Live probiotics in leave-on products are difficult to stabilize, so "probiotics" in most skincare are probiotic-derived ferments or lysates, not live cultures. This acknowledged, the ingredients still provide fermentation-derived postbiotics with measurable skin benefits. The cleansing oil format is actually a good fit for these ingredients since contact time is limited.

What It Does

The oil base dissolves sunscreen, sebum, and makeup in the first cleanse step. Pine cica extract delivers anti-inflammatory compounds that calm skin during cleansing, reducing the irritation that aggressive washing can trigger. Probiotic ferments support microbiome balance and provide bioavailable peptides and amino acids. The combination makes this a functional daily first cleanse for sensitized or barrier-compromised skin.

Who It's For

• Sensitive and reactive skin: Pine cica's calming profile suits compromised barriers.
• Daily sunscreen and makeup wearers: Needed for thorough removal.
• Probiotic skincare enthusiasts: Fermentation-based formulation.
• Dry and mature skin: Oil base is hydrating rather than stripping.
• Users seeking alternatives to centella cica: Different profile, overlapping benefits.

Key Specs

• Volume: 200ml
• Price: $39.52
• Hero actives: pine cica (Pinus densiflora) extract 1%, probiotic ferments, botanical oil base
• Texture: lightweight oil, emulsifies cleanly on water contact
• Fragrance: subtle pine-forest note
• Finish: rinses completely, no residue

How to Use

Apply to dry skin with dry hands. Dispense 2 to 3 pumps, massage over face for 30 to 60 seconds. Wet hands with warm water and continue massaging until the oil turns milky. Rinse thoroughly. Follow with a second cleanser for complete double cleanse.

For heavier makeup days: spend additional time in the eye area with gentle motions. Don't rub; let the oil dissolve pigments before wiping.

FAQ

Pine cica vs centella cica?

Both calm skin through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Centella (Korean "cica" originally) has the longer clinical track record with madecassoside and asiaticoside as hero compounds. Pine cica is newer to the scene with different active compounds. Some users respond better to one than the other; there's no objective winner.

Are the probiotics live?

No. Live probiotics in oil-based leave-on formulations aren't stable. What's included are probiotic ferments (lactobacillus ferment, bifida ferment, or similar) that provide postbiotic benefits. This is standard across the "probiotic skincare" category.

Will it clog pores?

Unlikely if rinsed thoroughly. The oil blend is non-comedogenic in rinse-off format. Leaving residue unrinsed risks pore congestion for oily-acne-prone skin types.

How does it compare to iUNIK Calendula Cleansing Oil?

Both are sensitive-skin focused oil cleansers. iUNIK uses calendula at a gentler $35 price. K-SECRET uses pine cica plus probiotics at $39.52. For calendula preference and slightly simpler formulation: iUNIK. For pine cica and microbiome emphasis: K-SECRET.

How long does 200ml last?

With nightly use, 3 to 4 months. The pump dispenser controls quantity well.

Related Products

Pair with a foaming or gel second cleanser like LANEIGE Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser, or layer with pine-focused toner Round Lab Pine Calming Cica Ampoule.

Browse the full K-SECRET collection or related: Korean cleansing oils, best Korean products for sensitive skin.