Brand Comparison
iS Clinical 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 8.7)
iS Clinical
iS Clinical is the cosmeceutical brand dermatologists' offices actually stock — the line that sits next to ZO Skin Health and SkinCeuticals on the recommendation card. Founded in 2003 by Bryan Johns and Alec Call out of a research background in pharmaceutical and oncology applications, the brand built its reputation on the Active Serum (a multi-acid + arbutin + bilberry serum that handles acne, pigmentation, and aging in one bottle) and Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ (the post-procedure recovery formulation that aestheticians dispense after laser, micro-needling, and chemical peels). Distribution stays selective — dermatologist offices, medical spas, and authorized retailers — which keeps the brand premium but limits casual discovery.
Pros
- ✓ dermatologist-and-aesthetician channel pedigree
- ✓ Active Serum is a genuinely versatile multi-active hero
- ✓ Pro-Heal Serum Advance+ is the gold-standard post-procedure formulation
- ✓ iron-oxide mineral SPF (Eclipse) is one of the cleanest in the market
Cons
- ✗ pharmaceutical pricing tier ($95-170 per product)
- ✗ selective distribution makes purchase harder than DTC brands
- ✗ marketing aesthetic feels dated next to modern cosmeceutical brands like Augustinus Bader
- ✗ INCI complexity makes it harder for casual users to understand
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.
