The best CosRx products were iconic long before coveted Korean glass skin became mainstream. “It {CosRx} 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 skin care maker Then I Met You and online retailer Soko Glam.
Cho personally introduced me to some of CosRx’s best-selling snail mucin skincare 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.
Note that it’s not just in the West where CosRx is big news. Founded in 2013, CosRx is also well-known in South Korea, where it’s gained a loyal following for prioritising results with minimal irritation. “In Korea, CosRx is widely known for its no-frills, ingredient-focused approach to skin care — especially for acne-prone, oily, or sensitive skin types,” says Hwang Wonuk, MD, cosmetic physician at Cheongdam LeBelle Dermatologic Clinic in Seoul.
How I tested CoRsx products
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 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 what its key benefits are. Once I’ve got a view on each product, I also consult with K-beauty experts and dermatologists specialising in Korean skin care to curate each list and help Glamour readers make the most informed decision. Read more about how we test here.
1. Best Cleanser: CosRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
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 the ingredients, which include tea tree leaf oil to “soothe inflammation and help manage acne-causing bacteria,” beta-hydroxy acid (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 Korean 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.”