Brand Comparison

Dr.G 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 8.4)

Dr.G COSRX

Rating8.4/109/10

Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)

Founded20032013

OriginSeoul, South KoreaSeoul, South Korea

Products331

Best ForSensitive, rosacea-prone, redness, compromised-barrierOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive

PhilosophyDermatologist-designed K-beauty for reactive, sensitive, barrier-challenged skin.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.

Dr.G

Dr.G (short for Dr. Gowoonsesang) built its cult on the Red Blemish Cream — a calming centella cream sold in Korean pharmacies for redness and rosacea-adjacent flares. Not flashy, not magazine-shiny, but the brand beauty editors reach for when their own skin breaks. If CeraVe had a Korean derm cousin, this would be it.

Pros

✓ dermatologist-formulated
✓ Red Blemish Cream is a quiet hero
✓ accessible drugstore pricing
✓ soothing / sensitive focus

Cons

✗ packaging is utilitarian, not magazine
✗ not as exciting as trendier K-brands
✗ some products fragranced

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