Brand Comparison
Dermage 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 7.8)
Rating7.8/109/10
Price RangeMid-Range ($$)Budget ($)
Founded19822013
OriginBrazilSeoul, South Korea
Products531
Best ForAcne-Prone, Oily, Combo, normalOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophyDermocosmetic Brazilian pharmacy brand — dermatologist-led, acne-focused, affordable actives for Brazilian skin.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Dermage
The dermatologist-desk brand Brazilians grew up with. Solar Filtrum sunscreens are iconic; the acne range is a staple.
Pros
- ✓ Dermatologist-recommended
- ✓ Acne-focused expertise
- ✓ Good SPFs
Cons
- ✗ Utilitarian branding
- ✗ Packaging dated
- ✗ Not exciting for routine-nerds
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
