The photo on the left was what the Paula’s Choice Extra Strength BHA did to my forehead after trying to use it 4 times weekly for about a month. In other words, it completely nuke my moisture barrier and acid mantle (and aggravated my malassezia / fungal sensitivities)! Just looking at the photo makes me cringe. If you didn’t know what over-exfoliated skin looks like…. well, now you do. The COSRX Snail Essence contains 96% snail mucin as the key ingredient. It has been theorized that applying snail mucin to the skin could provide skin-regenerating benefits. Many of the snail mucin benefits come from three key components: hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and allantoin. According to researchers at the University of Nigeria, snail mucin plays an important role in wound healing as it enhances the skin’s natural regenerative response on the formation of new tissues, probably through immune response. Due to these healing properties, snail mucin has been shown to help with acne, rosacea, scars, razor bumps, and even signs of aging. Herbivore Botanicals: Herbivore Botanicals is known for its minimalist and natural approach to skincare. They offer a range of plant-based products that are free from synthetic ingredients, aiming to bring out the best in your skin using gentle and nourishing formulations. One of the most popular COSRX skincare products is the Acne Pimple Patch. Designed to cover breakouts while you sleep, the COSRX pimple patches are waterproof spot patches that protect blemishes from bacteria and absorb impurities overnight while encouraging healthy skin hydration.

Each of these brands provides alternatives to Cosrx, with a focus on natural ingredients, clean formulations, and effective skincare solutions.A 2022 study evaluated the effectiveness of plant-derived ingredients, like green tea extract. The study discovered that these ingredients can provide anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant benefits, contributing to overall skin health and appearance. Not universally effective: While many people experience positive results with Cosrx products, they may not work for everyone. Skincare effectiveness can vary depending on individual skin types and concerns, so it’s important to consider personal factors when choosing skincare products. Sodium hyaluronate is the salt form of hyaluronic acid that has been shown to have better skin penetrating capabilities than hyaluronic acid alone. Similar to panthenol, sodium hyaluronate functions as a humectant by drawing moisture into the skin. Lastly, COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream contains emollients like caprylic/capric triglyceride, sunflower seed oil, and macadamia seed oil to help the skin feel soft and smooth. It also increases collagen production, and does comparatively better than antibiotics in treating acne. ( 9, 10) But I am nervous about the plant extracts in the Cosrx BHA that I couldn’t find much or any research on in the context of skin (at least not in English). I’ll probably just give it a go and see how it goes for me.

On the other hand the COSRX BHA is reminiscent of my childhood because it smells exactly like those lemon lime green shots the ice cream man use to sell! If you have any idea what I’m talking about you’re awesome. :p We noticed that COSRX doesn’t use just one key ingredient throughout their collection of skincare products. Rather, COSRX skincare products contain a variety of beneficial ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients you’ll find in each of the best selling COSRX skincare products we introduced above. For starters, the COSRX BHA has the most gorgeous slip! It feels like silky water and spreads super easily. And look at the beautiful dewy finish it leaves behind!In fact, there is some evidence that salicylate (the active BHA in COSRX) at pH 6.5, works just as well as salicylic acid in an acidic vehicle (pH 3.12) after only two days of application. COSRX offers products for each step of your skincare routine, including cleansers, toners, serums, essences, moisturizers, and more. Below we’ll introduce the top 5 best selling COSRX skincare products. While side effects are uncommon, it’s important to be aware of possible reactions and discontinue use if any adverse effects occur. Formulated with 7% glycolic acid, the AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid gently exfoliates your skin to help reveal a radiant and glowing complexion. It enables fast cell turnover by melting dead skin cells on the outer layers of the skin.

Niacinamide is a common ingredient found in several of the brand’s products. It is known for its brightening and skin-evening properties. It helps to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, refine the skin’s texture, and promote a more radiant complexion. Centella AsiaticaThe COSRX Snail Essence is said to be “like a multivitamin for your skin”. This lightweight, highly concentrated essence contains 96% snail mucin, providing nutrients that support repair and maintain skin moisture. COSRX Snail Essence is recommended for all skin types, especially dull, dehydrated skin and acne-prone skin. Affordable prices: Cosrx skincare products are known for their affordability. They offer effective products at reasonable price points, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers. Facetheory: Facetheory is a brand that focuses on personalized skincare with clean formulations. They offer a range of products tailored to different skin concerns, using high-quality active ingredients and avoiding common irritants, making them suitable for sensitive skin. Affordability: Cosrx is known for offering affordable skincare options. Their products are priced reasonably, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers who are looking for effective skincare without breaking the bank.

Feels like silky water and spreads very easily. Dries leaving a dewy finish, and smells faintly of lemon lime shots! :p Cruelty-free brand: Cosrx is a cruelty-free Korean skincare brand. They do not test their products on animals, making them a suitable choice for individuals who prefer ethical and animal-friendly skincare options.Salix alba (willow) bark water, butylene glycol, betaine salicylate, niacinamide, 1,2-hexanediol, arginine, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, xanthan gum, ethyl hexanediol. So no, this won’t turn into an ungodly amount of salicylic acid when applied on skin. Rather, it’s put into this formula because of the soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits it has. Something I think COSRX deserves credit for! This new product becomes ideal for leave-on and rinse off compositions that require mild exfoliation and antimicrobial properties blended with substantial moisturizing and anti-irritation claims.” ( 1) People often confuse willow bark extract with salicylic acid. They are not the same thing. Willow bark simply has salicin in it, which in the presence of enzymes, or when absorbed orally, converts into salicylic acid.