Brand Comparison
Indy Beauty 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 7.5)
Rating7.5/109/10
Price RangeMid-Range ($$)Budget ($)
Founded20172013
OriginStockholm, SwedenSeoul, South Korea
Products231
Best Fornormal, Combo, DryOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophyCelebrity-founded Swedish skincare — celebrity indie but with real formulation depth. Think Nordic Rhode.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Indy Beauty
Swedish musician-founded skincare that outgrew the celebrity-brand critique. Formulations are legitimately good.
Pros
- ✓ Celebrity founder built real depth
- ✓ Strong Scandinavian aesthetic
- ✓ Mid-tier accessible pricing
Cons
- ✗ Celebrity-brand skepticism
- ✗ Limited US retail
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
- ✗ Packaging is utilitarian, not luxurious
- ✗ Rarely pushes boundaries with new ingredients
- ✗ Some products have a faint tea tree scent
