Brand Comparison

Holika Holika 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)

Holika Holika COSRX

Rating7/109/10

Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)

Founded20102013

OriginSeoul, South KoreaSeoul, South Korea

Products632

Best ForOily, Combo, Acne-ProneOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive

PhilosophyFun, approachable K-beauty with playful packaging and effective sheet masks. Makes skincare feel like self-care, not a chore.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.

Holika Holika

Holika Holika bridges the gap between fun and functional. Their sheet masks are some of the best value in K-beauty, and products like the Pig Nose Clear Black Head kit show they can innovate in pore care. The packaging is polarizing — some love the playfulness, others find it juvenile. Underneath it all, the formulations are surprisingly solid.

Pros

✓ Excellent sheet mask variety
✓ Fun, gift-worthy packaging
✓ Very affordable
✓ Good pore care products

Cons

✗ Playful packaging may not appeal to everyone
✗ Inconsistent quality across ranges
✗ Some products are more gimmick than substance

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