Brand Comparison

Laneige 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)

Laneige COSRX

Rating7.5/109/10

Price RangeMid-Range ($$)Budget ($)

Founded19942013

OriginSeoul, South KoreaSeoul, South Korea

Products1231

Best ForDry, ComboOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive

PhilosophyWater science and hydration technology. Part of the Amorepacific corporation, with access to significant R&D resources.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.

Laneige

Laneige is a legacy K-beauty brand with Amorepacific's R&D muscle behind it. The Lip Sleeping Mask is a legitimate cultural phenomenon and genuinely effective. Beyond the hero products, the range is competent but rarely exceptional — you're often paying for the brand name and attractive packaging more than breakthrough formulations.

Pros

✓ Lip Sleeping Mask is genuinely excellent
✓ Water Sleeping Mask is a solid overnight treatment
✓ Backed by Amorepacific R&D
✓ Beautiful packaging and pleasant textures

Cons

✗ Premium pricing across the board
✗ Many products contain fragrance
✗ Hero products overshadow a middling wider range
✗ Marketing often overpromises

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