Brand Comparison

Hera vs Isoi

A head-to-head comparison of two popular K-beauty brands. Which one is right for your skin?

Our Pick

Hera

Higher editor rating (9 vs 8.6)

Hera Isoi

Rating9/108.6/10

Price RangePremium ($$$)Premium ($$$)

Founded19952007

OriginSouth KoreaSouth Korea

Products41

Best Forluxury skincare, Mature, K-prestige, giftingCombo, Mature, Sensitive

PhilosophyAmorePacific's luxury skincare-meets-color-cosmetics house — Black Cushion icon, Sensual Powder Matte Lipstick, and serious skincare.Damask rose, deeply.

Hera

Hera is the AmorePacific-owned Korean luxury house that has produced one of the most photographed cushion compacts in beauty history (the Black Cushion) and a quietly excellent skincare lineup that doesn't get the same Sephora-front-row coverage as Sulwhasoo or Whoo. Premium pricing, Korean luxury heritage, formulations that earn their place at the top of any K-prestige routine.

Pros

✓ AmorePacific-backed luxury
✓ Black Cushion is iconic
✓ Strong skincare lineup beyond cushions
✓ Premium texture quality

Cons

✗ Luxury pricing across the board
✗ Less Western distribution
✗ Branding can feel formal

Isoi

Isoi has been quietly excellent for nearly two decades, but 2025 is its breakout year. The Blemish Care Up Serum picked up multiple Hwahae nods, and dermatology-leaning K-beauty fans have been quietly recommending it for fading post-acne marks for years. Premium-leaning but worth it.

Pros