Brand Comparison

Illiyoon 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 8.5)

Illiyoon COSRX

Rating8.5/109/10

Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)

Founded20052013

OriginSouth KoreaSeoul, South Korea

Products631

Best ForSensitive, Dry, ComboOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive

PhilosophyDermatologically tested skincare focused on restoring and protecting the skin barrier. Developed by Amorepacific with a focus on ceramide science for even the most sensitive skin.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.

Illiyoon

Illiyoon is the brand dermatologists and eczema sufferers quietly swear by. The Ceramide Ato line is genuinely excellent — dense, protective, fragrance-free, and effective at repairing compromised barriers. It does what expensive barrier repair creams do at a fraction of the price. Not glamorous, not trending on TikTok, but consistently one of the most recommended K-beauty brands in dermatology circles. If your skin is angry, start here.

Pros

✓ Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream is a genuinely outstanding barrier cream
✓ Dermatologist-backed formulations with real clinical data
✓ Exceptional value — premium quality at drugstore prices
✓ Fragrance-free across the core range

Cons

✗ Packaging is clinical and uninspiring
✗ Limited product range outside the Ato line
✗ Textures run heavy — not ideal for humid climates or oily skin
✗ Not widely available outside Korea and Amazon

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