Cosrx products are generally well-tolerated and formulated to be gentle on the skin. However, like any skincare product, there is a potential for individual sensitivity or allergic reactions. Personally, I was never able to use the Paula’s Choice 2% BHA because it was simply too drying. I would try to introduce it into my skincare routine time and time again, only to my disappointment and newly found irritated skin. BHAs penetrate deeply into the pores and helps clear clogged pores and gently exfoliates dead skin cells, giving the skin its natural glow. BHAs are oil-soluble so they are able to penetrate through oil, natural and otherwise, to truly dissolve it and clean out clogged pores. They also have amazing anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Oh, and the Paula’s Choice BHA smells like a** too. I understand that Paula’s Choice has a quarrel against fragrances because they’re potentially irritating, which is good. Kudos to them. But goodness, this stuff stinks haha.

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.Hyaluronic acid is a hydrating ingredient that can hold a significant amount of moisture. It helps to replenish and retain hydration in the skin, promoting a plump and moisturized complexion. Ascorbic Acid It’s derived from sugar beets, and many consider it a more gentle alternative to salicylic acid because it isn’t pH dependent, meaning it does not require an acidic environment to work optimally. If you’re looking for alternatives to Cosrx, here are some popular brands that offer natural skincare options:

Moreover, one study that found 4% betaine salicylate was just as effective as 2% salicylic acid after 10 days, without the drying or irritating effects that salicylic acid had. 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. 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 Asiatica The 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. Great, isn’t it? On a firsthand glance we already see that they’ve completely cut out all the unnecessary ingredients that are little more than filler.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.