Brand Comparison
DUO 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 8.8)
DUO
Japan's #1 cleansing balm, full stop. DUO (the parent company is Premier Anti-Aging) has sold over 15 million units of The Cleansing Balm and won six consecutive Cosme Awards — the Japanese beauty industry's most-watched rankings. It's a cleansing balm that claims to do five things (makeup removal, cleansing, exfoliation, massage, primer) and actually delivers on at least three. A cult favourite for a reason.
Pros
- ✓ #1 cleansing balm in Japan — genuine market leadership
- ✓ 5-in-1 efficacy reduces steps without feeling stripped
- ✓ variants for specific skin types (charcoal for oily, matcha for antioxidant, white for brightening)
Cons
- ✗ premium pricing for a cleansing balm
- ✗ the '5-in-1' claim is marketing-forward — it's mostly a great cleanser
- ✗ not available at most Western retailers
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
