Brand Comparison
Klorane 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 7.8)
Rating7.8/109/10
Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)
Founded19652013
OriginFranceSeoul, South Korea
Products431
Best Fornormal, Sensitive, DryOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophyPierre Fabre dermo-cosmetic — pharmacy staple with plant-extract science, specialises in hair but solid face offerings.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Klorane
Klorane is a Pierre Fabre pharmacy classic. Best known for hair, but their micellar waters and dermo-protective creams are French-drugstore staples that sit next to Bioderma.
Pros
- ✓ Pierre Fabre pharmacy credibility
- ✓ Affordable €10-15 tier
- ✓ Plant-extract formulations
Cons
- ✗ Hair line more famous than skincare
- ✗ Fragrance in some products
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
