The best CosRx products have been iconic long before Korean skin care started going viral on TikTok. “It became a cornerstone brand in the early K-beauty wave we introduced through our curation at Soko Glam,” says Charlotte Cho, a licensed esthetician based in New York City and cofounder of Then I Met You and Soko Glam. Cho personally introduced me to some of the brand’s best-selling snail mucin skin care in 2016, and I’ve been a fan ever since. “Their approach is simple yet effective—science-backed formulations, affordable, and results you can actually see,” says Cho.
CosRx, founded in 2013, is also well-known in South Korea, where it’s gained a loyal following for prioritizing results with minimal irritation. “In Korea, CosRx is widely known for its no-frills, ingredient-focused approach to skincare—especially for acne-prone, oily, or sensitive skin types,” says Hwang Wonuk, MD, cosmetic physician at Cheongdam LeBelle Dermatologic Clinic in Seoul. Last year, I spent a day touring the CosRx HQ in Seoul, testing every single iconic launch, some of which have already been staples in my bathroom cabinet for years. I compiled my notes along with expert insights from Cho and Dr. Hwang to bring you this list of the brand’s standout products in every category.
The best CosRx products, at a glance
- Best Cleanser: CosRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, $12
- Best Essence: CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, $10
- Best Serum for Dry Skin: CosRx The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum, $21
- Best Serum for Oily Skin: CosRx The Niacinamide 15 Serum, $20
- Best Serum for Glow: CosRx The Alpha-Arbutin 2 Discoloration Care Serum, $25
- Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: CosRx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream, $21
- Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin: CosRx Propolis Light Cream, $23
- Best Retinol: CosRx The Retinol 0.5 Oil, $21
- Best Peptide: CosRx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum, $20
- Best Acne Treatment: CosRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner, $15
- Best Exfoliant: CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment, $18
- Best Sheet Mask: CosRx Advanced Snail Mucin Glass Glow Hydrogel Mask, $15
- Best Eye Mask: CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch, $23
How we tested
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Since my introduction to K-beauty brands in 2016 (coincidentally, the first K-beauty brand I ever tried was CosRx), I’ve gravitated toward their innovative delivery systems and gentle efficacy. Over the years, I’ve tested hundreds of the most popular launches, including snail mucin creams, cleansing oils, lip tints, and cushion foundations. I even spent three months in Seoul last year researching the latest emerging trends and viral Korean skin care launches. During that time, I also visited CosRx’s headquarters in Seoul, where I tested every single product from the brand. When reviewing each CosRx formula, I make note of its ingredient list to determine which skin types it’s best for, whether it’s fragrance free, and its key benefits. I also consult with K-beauty experts and dermatologists specializing in Korean skin care to curate each list and help Glamour readers make the most informed decision.
Best Cleanser: CosRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
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CosRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Amazon
Soko Glam
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Tea tree leaf oil, BHA, allantoin, snowbell tree extract, lotus extract
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Barrier-friendly, pH-balanced daily cleanser; derm-recommended for oily and acne-prone skin; gentle formula; doesn’t cause tightness
All skin types can benefit from this gel cleanser, which I personally love for its gentle, non-stripping formula. Dr. Hwang credits its versatility to its ingredients, which include tea tree leaf oil to “soothe inflammation and help manage acne-causing bacteria,” BHA to “gently exfoliate and prevent clogged pores,” and allantoin to “calm skin and aid in barrier repair.” Together, they create a formula that deep cleans without feeling harsh on your complexion. “This is one of the few cleansers I recommend consistently to patients starting prescription actives or post-laser treatments,” says Dr. Hwang. “It cleanses thoroughly without disrupting the skin’s natural pH, which is critical in maintaining a healthy barrier. Personally, I’ve used it after procedures like microneedling, and it never causes tightness or irritation. It’s a solid, gentle cleanser that works especially well for oily or acne-prone skin types.”
Cho also swears by this pick, which she says has been a staple in her skin care routine for years. “It’s gentle, has the perfect low pH to support my skin barrier, and never leaves my skin feeling tight—just fresh and balanced,” she says.
Best Essence: CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y Wu testing CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
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CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Amazon
Soko Glam
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Snail secretion filtrate (snail mucin), sodium hyaluronate, allantoin, panthenol, arginine
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Hydrating essence formulated with snail mucin; lightweight, bouncy serum texture; intensely hydrating; immediate plumping and calming effect
Snail mucin is one of K-beauty’s most popular ingredients. Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York, previously told Glamour that snail mucin (or snail secretion filtrate) is “rich in amino acids and hyaluronic acid,” giving it hydrating, repairing, and brightening benefits. “I love this essence, especially as an extra step in the winter when skin may become dry, chapped, and in need of repair,” she says. Cho is also a loyal fan of this well-known formula. “This essence was one of the first snail products I ever used, and it truly converted me. The texture is hydrating and bouncy, and over time it helped smooth and calm my skin like nothing else,” she says.
I’ve also used up several bottles of this essence over the years and love how it balances intense hydration with a bouncy-yet-lightweight formula. It’s perfect for imparting instant bounce to the dry zones of my combination skin without breaking me out or making my T-zone feel greasy.
Best Serum for Dry Skin: CosRx The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum
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CosRx The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum
Amazon
Soko Glam
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramide NP, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Intensely hydrating; great for dry, dehydrated, and combination skin; sinks in quickly; easy to layer
Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating powerhouse popularized for its ability to intensely moisturize skin without heaviness. This serum ispart of the brand’s Rx line, which boasts especially potent ingredients. . If you’re looking for a no-frills hyaluronic acid serum that pairs the hero ingredient with other popular hydrators like glycerin, ceramide NP, and vitamin E, this is an excellent option. It absorbs quickly, layers easily with my other skin care and makeup, and keeps my face feeling hydrated all day. “When my skin is parched—especially during winter or post-retinoid use—I reach for this,” says Cho. “It sinks in quickly and delivers deep hydration without any heaviness.”
Best Serum for Oily Skin: CosRx The Niacinamide 15 Serum
CosRx The Niacinamide 15 Serum
Amazon
Soko Glam
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc PCA, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Powerful-yet-gentle niacinamide (15%) serum; acne-friendly ingredients; helps balance sebum levels and refine pores; non-sticky finish; good for oily and acne-prone skin
Another standout from the Rx line is The Niacinamide 15 Serum, which is formulated to help keep oily and acne-prone skin types balanced, clear, and smooth. Niacinamide is one of the most versatile skin care ingredients—treating concerns from dark spots and hyperpigmentation to dryness and redness—so technically any skin type can benefit from its effects. But this serum is especially great for balancing sebum levels and keeping blemishes in check thanks to its high concentration of niacinamide (15%) paired with acne-fighting zinc PCA and soothing allantoin.
Compared to The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum, this serum features an even more lightweight, watery texture. While both serums sink in fast on my skin, this one feels practically undetectable, making it a great pick for oily skin. On weeks when my combination skin leans greasy, this is an essential step in my morning routine. Cho also praises the balanced formula. “This serum is a go-to for keeping oil in check while also refining pores,” she says. “It’s powerful, but surprisingly gentle, which is rare at such a high percentage of niacinamide.”
Best Serum for Glow: CosRx The Alpha-Arbutin 2 Discoloration Care Serum
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx The Alpha-Arbutin 2 Discoloration Care Serum
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CosRx The Alpha-Arbutin 2 Discoloration Care Serum
Amazon
Soko Glam
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Alpha-arbutin, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, ferulic acid, glutathione
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Dermatologist-favorite formula for brightening; targets dullness and dark spots without harsh ingredients; lightweight, non-sticky texture
One of the brand’s more recent launches, this product impressed me so much it secured a spot on my list of the best Korean serums. This glow-boosting formula is packed with derm-approved brighteners including 2% alpha-arbutin, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, ferulic acid, and glutathione. “It’s great for those with uneven skin tone, dull complexion, hyperpigmentation, or post-acne marks,” Dr. Chang previously told Glamour. “The star ingredient in this serum is alpha-arbutin, a gentler alternative to hydroquinone that helps to brighten dark spots by inhibiting melanin production.”
This serum first impressed me with its non-sticky lightweight texture, but what kept me going back was the noticeable brightening effect, which I found comparable to my favorite vitamin C serums. The combination of ingredients helps fade my post-breakout dark spots much faster than usual and makes my face look overall more radiant. Cho agrees. “Alpha-arbutin is one of my favorite ingredients for brightening, and this serum gives my skin that even-toned, lit-from-within glow without irritation,” she says.
Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: CosRx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream
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CosRx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream
Amazon
Soko Glam
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Snail secretion filtrate (snail mucin), sodium hyaluronate, allantoin, adenosine
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Hydrating snail mucin cream; instant soothing nourishing effect; barrier-supporting benefits; non-sticky texture; good for sensitive skin
CosRx doesn’t just make snail mucin in essence form; this best-selling moisturizer is another way to try the benefits of snail secretion filtrate. It’s formulated with additional hydrating, soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and allantoin to create a cream that’s intensely moisturizing. The texture is one of my favorite things about this moisturizer: slightly bouncy, yet lightweight and non-sticky. It has an immediate, subtle plumping effect and feels beautifully refreshing. I usually layer it over the brand’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence for a double dose of snail mucin (and skin that’s visibly dewy and plump).
“The lush, cushiony texture comforts my skin instantly,” says Cho of the barrier-friendly formula. “This moisturizer is great when my barrier feels compromised or I’m dealing with redness—super soothing and restorative.”
Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin: CosRx Propolis Light Cream
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx Propolis Light Cream
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CosRx Propolis Light Cream
Amazon
Soko Glam
- Key ingredients: Propolis extract, honey extract, royal jelly extract, sunflower seed oil, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Lightweight but intensely moisturizing propolis and honey moisturizer; immediate nourishing and soothing effect; non-sticky gel texture; leaves a hydrated glow
I’’ve been obsessed with the entire CosRx Propolis line since the brand launched it, and this cream remains a favorite in my routine. Its hero ingredients include honey, as well as propolis (a natural bee-made resin) and royal jelly extracts (a nutrient-rich honeybee secretion). All three have known anti-inflammatory properties that help nourish while hydrating.
It packs the amount of moisture I’d usually expect from a much heavier, richer formula in a non-sticky gel base. “I love this moisturizer because it hydrates deeply while still feeling breathable on the skin,” says Cho. “The propolis adds a natural glow and helps calm any irritation—great for tackling dull or dry complexions.” One note: This cream leaves me extremely glowy, so those with already oily skin types should apply sparingly or consider another moisturizer instead.
Best Retinol: CosRx The Retinol 0.5 Oil
CosRx The Retinol 0.5 Oil
Amazon
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Retinol, squalane, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: More intense (0.5%) retinol; face oil formula creates a moisturizing buffer; recommended for dry skin; visible smoothing effect with regular use; targets a range of skin concerns
This oil made Glamour’s list of the best Korean retinols thanks to its noticeable effects and unique formula. One of the rare retinols I’ve tried that works well on dry skin, it packs the punch of a serum in face oil form. The formula contains a higher concentration of the ingredient than what you’ll usually find in Korean skin care (0.5%), but suspends it in an oil base for a built-in moisturizing, buffering effect. “It has a nourishing base of squalane, which is one of my favorite deep hydrators that helps lock in moisture and cushion the intensity of the pure retinol,” says Cho. “Because of the facial oil consistency, I think this is perfect for dry skin types and retinol beginners.” Even if you don’t have dry skin, try it for the results. “I love how smooth it makes my skin look, and it gives a soft glow without flaking or redness,” she says.
This is one of the stronger Korean retinols in my personal collection, but it’s still mild enough for my sensitive skin to tolerate. It’s also lightweight and fast-absorbing, so don’t be scared off by the oil formula; it won’t leave a greasy residue behind.
Best Peptide: CosRx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
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CosRx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
Amazon
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Six types of peptides, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Fast-absorbing watery texture; affordable peptide serum; dermatologist-recommended for all skin types; plumping and hydrating effect
I love peptides as a skin-plumping ingredient, but the serums can run on the expensive side. This is one of my favorite affordable options. It makes my skin look instantly hydrated and bouncy, which is exactly what you want peptides to do. Dr. Hwang credits its effects to the six types of peptides in the formula, which “promote collagen synthesis and improve skin elasticity.” He also likes the inclusion of panthenol to “strengthen the skin barrier and soothe irritation,” as well as sodium hyaluronate to hydrate and help plump.
“It’s a great entry serum for those in their late 20s to 40s who are beginning preventative anti-aging routines,” says Dr. Hwang. “I appreciate how well it absorbs—there’s no tackiness, and it layers seamlessly under other skin care products.” He recommends that his patients apply it on “humid days when heavier serums feel suffocating,” although it can benefit any skin type, year-round. “Patients often tell me their skin feels firmer and more hydrated with consistent use,” he says.
Best Acne Treatment: CosRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing CosRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
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CosRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Amazon
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Glycolic acid (AHA), betaine salicylate (BHA), willow bark water, apple fruit water, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Gentle exfoliating toner; helps quickly smooth texture and prevent breakouts; doesn’t cause dryness; easy-to-use spray applicator
This exfoliating toner, which helps diminish pimples, is one of CosRx’s most frequently-searched products. Dr. Hwang is a fan because of its gentle-yet-effective formula, which combines glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid, or AHA) with betaine salicylate (a beta-hydroxy acid, or BHA). “Glycolic acid exfoliates and promotes skin turnover, and betaine salicylate clears sebum and prevents blackheads,” he explains. The formula is also packed with willow bark water, “a natural anti-inflammatory and mild exfoliant,” says Dr. Hwang.
One of my favorite features of this toner is that it’s mild enough for regular use, even on my sensitive skin. “It’s gentle enough for daily use and pairs well with both prescription and over-the-counter routines,” confirms Dr. Hwang. “I typically recommend this to younger patients dealing with uneven texture, mild breakouts, or congestion. I’ve also used it during travel when my skin becomes congested and found that it helps smooth out texture within a few days without causing dryness. The spray-type bottle is also convenient for quick use without overapplication.”
Best Exfoliant: CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
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CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
Amazon
Soko Glam
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Betaine salicylate (BHA), willow bark water, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Chemical exfoliating treatment; gentler alternative to salicylic acid products; good for blackheads, uneven texture, clogged pores, and acne-prone skin
According to Cho, this treatment is “hands down one of the most effective yet gentle BHA products I’ve used.” This chemical exfoliator contains the same betaine salicylate (BHA) you’ll find in the brand’s AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner at a higher 4% concentration. “Betaine salicylate is a gentler derivative of salicylic acid that keeps my pores clear and skin texture refined,” she says. The formula also features willow bark water, niacinamide, and sodium hyaluronate to keep skin feeling balanced while targeting uneven texture and clogged pores. “I always recommend it to anyone dealing with congestion or blackheads,” says Cho. “It helped me clear my hormonal acne.”
Best Sheet Mask: CosRx Advanced Snail Mucin Glass Glow Hydrogel Mask
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Jenifer Calle testing CosRx Advanced Snail Mucin Glass Glow Hydrogel Mask
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CosRx Advanced Snail Mucin Glass Glow Hydrogel Mask
Amazon
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Snail secretion filtrate, allantoin, glycerin, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, tea tree leaf oil
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Overnight hydrogel mask; features snail mucin and other hydrating ingredients; derm-recommended for laser and treatment recovery; immediate cooling effect; boosts glow
I’ve tried every viral overnight Korean face mask on the market, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this snail mucin version when it launched. Like other popular hydrogel masks, you can wear this one for a few hours until it changes color and hardens, or leave it on while you sleep. It’s packed with calming, hydrating ingredients for an intense moisture treatment. “Snail mucin hydrates and supports skin regeneration, allantoin calms irritated or post-procedure skin, and hyaluronic acid restores moisture and adds plumpness,” says Dr. Hwang. “This is one of my go-to recommendations for patients recovering from RF (radio frequency), lasers, or any irritation-prone treatments.” Compared to traditional sheet masks, Dr. Hwang says that hydrogel not only feels more cooling “but also enhances ingredient delivery.” He recommends it for “dry, tired skin” that needs a reset. “Personally, I’ve used it after long-haul flights and always notice an immediate improvement in hydration and skin texture,” he says. While I personally have yet to wear this mask on a flight, I like applying one for a few hours while I hit deadlines, then peeling it off to an impressive glass-skin glow.
Best Eye Mask: CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Sarah Y. Wu testing CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch
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CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch
Amazon
Ulta
- Key ingredients: Caffeine, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptides, hydrolyzed collagen
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Fast facts: Refreshing hydrogel eye patches; immediate subtle brightening and depuffing effect; derm-loved ingredients for targeting dark circles and puffiness
As a beauty editor who never gets enough sleep, I always keep a tub of eye patches on my desk, and these have been on regular rotation lately. They’re packed with all the ingredients I like in my favorite Korean eye creams, like caffeine and hyaluronic acid. The formula also contains peptides to “improve firmness and elasticity under the eyes,” niacinamide to “brighten dark circles and even tone,” and hydrolyzed collagen to “hydrate and support dermal density,” says Dr. Hwang. Even if you’re already using an eye cream, he recommends these as a “great option for those looking for visible results” before events or after a long day. “Over several days of use, I noticed more than just a temporary de-puffing effect—my under-eye area felt noticeably calmer, smoother, and slightly brighter,” he says.
“I was really impressed with these hydrogel eye patches,” says Glamour commerce writer, Alanna Martine Kilkeary. “Word to the wise, they are a bit sticky and goopy during application, but this formula melts down to a nice lightweight serum while sitting on the under-eye area. My eyes were particularly dark and puffy when I tested these, and I think they did a great job of brightening and softening my fine lines in the area. Not to mention, I love that they’re hot pink!”
Frequently asked questions
What is CosRx famous for?
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CosRx has several viral products you’ve probably seen on your FYP, including its 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum, AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner, and Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. But the brand’s popularity came long before TikTok was around. “CosRx earned a loyal following for offering effective formulations with minimal irritation at affordable prices,” explains Dr. Hwang. “It remains one of the most trusted K-beauty brands for those who value results over packaging or hype.”
Which COSRX products are best for acne-prone skin?
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If you want to target clogged pores, breakouts, and acne-prone skin, we recommend trying CosRx products that focus on gentle exfoliation and sebum control. Derm-approved picks from this list include the brand’s AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner, Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment, and The Niacinamide 15 Serum.
Meet the experts
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- Hwang Wonuk, MD, cosmetic physician at Cheongdam LeBelle Dermatologic Clinic in Seoul
- Y. Claire Chang, MD, board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York
- Charlotte Cho, licensed esthetician based in New York City and cofounder of Then I Met You skin care brand and Soko Glam online beauty retailer
The post 13 Best CosRx Products 2025, Approved by Dermatologists & Tested by Editors appeared first on Glamour.
