Brand Comparison
Catrice 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 7.2)
Rating7.2/109/10
Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)
Founded20042013
OriginGermanySeoul, South Korea
Products331
Best Fornormal, Combo, OilyOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophyCosnova's budget German drugstore cosmetics with a quietly solid skincare extension.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Catrice
Catrice is best known for cosmetics, but their skincare line — sold alongside the makeup at dm and Rossmann — is shockingly decent for the price. The Hydrating Face Mist and Clean ID Pure line are worth the €4 if you're building a budget routine.
Pros
- ✓ Drugstore pricing
- ✓ Wide EU availability
- ✓ Respectable clean-line formulas
Cons
- ✗ Fragranced across most lines
- ✗ Limited premium actives
- ✗ Primarily a makeup brand
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
