Brand Comparison
Biotique vs COSRX
A head-to-head comparison of two popular K-beauty brands. Which one is right for your skin?
Our Pick
COSRX
Higher editor rating (9 vs 7.7)
Rating7.7/109/10
Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)
Founded19922013
OriginIndiaSeoul, South Korea
Products531
Best Fornormal, Oily, Combo, DryOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophySwiss-biotech-meets-ayurveda — every product pairs a classical Indian herb with modern biotech extraction.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Biotique
The Indian drugstore staple with surprising depth. Bio Papaya Scrub and Bio Morning Nectar Sunscreen are cult classics. Nothing rivals Biotique for price.
Pros
- ✓ Drugstore price
- ✓ Good ayurveda classics
- ✓ Wide pharmacy distribution
Cons
- ✗ Mass-market formulas
- ✗ Packaging dated
- ✗ Fragrance-heavy
COSRX
The gateway brand for most people entering K-beauty, and for good reason. COSRX consistently delivers effective, no-frills products at prices that make most Western alternatives look overpriced. Their snail mucin line and BHA products are genuine category leaders. They rarely innovate, but they execute the basics exceptionally well.
Pros
- ✓ Outstanding value across the entire range
- ✓ Short, transparent ingredient lists
- ✓ Consistently effective formulations
- ✓ Widely available globally
Cons
- ✗ Packaging is utilitarian, not luxurious
- ✗ Rarely pushes boundaries with new ingredients
- ✗ Some products have a faint tea tree scent
