Brand Comparison

Pat McGrath Labs vs Isoi

A head-to-head comparison of two popular K-beauty brands. Which one is right for your skin?

Our Pick

Pat McGrath Labs

Higher editor rating (8.7 vs 8.6)

Pat McGrath Labs Isoi

Rating8.7/108.6/10

Price RangePremium ($$$)Premium ($$$)

Founded20152007

OriginUnited StatesSouth Korea

Products11

Best Forluxury makeup, high-pigment color, Sephora luxury, giftingCombo, Mature, Sensitive

PhilosophyIconic British makeup-artist Pat McGrath's American luxury cosmetics line — Skin Fetish, Mothership palettes, runway-glow heroes.Damask rose, deeply.

Pat McGrath Labs

Pat McGrath Labs is the cult luxury cosmetics brand from one of the most influential makeup artists in fashion history. The Skin Fetish Sublime Skin Highlighting Powder, Mothership Eyeshadow Palettes, and BlitzTrance Lipsticks are the cornerstone heroes — all formulated with the kind of pigment density and runway-glow energy that earned the brand its devoted Sephora-front-row following.

Pros

✓ Iconic founder credibility
✓ Runway-grade pigment density
✓ Cult palette and lipstick lineup
✓ Strong editorial polish

Cons

✗ Luxury pricing across the board
✗ Branding leans dramatic
✗ Limited skincare-treatment range

Isoi

Isoi has been quietly excellent for nearly two decades, but 2025 is its breakout year. The Blemish Care Up Serum picked up multiple Hwahae nods, and dermatology-leaning K-beauty fans have been quietly recommending it for fading post-acne marks for years. Premium-leaning but worth it.

Pros