Brand Comparison
Pilgrim 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 7.7)
Rating7.7/109/10
Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)
Founded20192013
OriginIndiaSeoul, South Korea
Products1132
Best Fornormal, Combo, DryOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophyNew-generation Indian global-ingredients skincare — Spanish rosemary, Korean rice water, Moroccan argan, Indian amla. A modern Indian indie with global sourcing.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Pilgrim
Pilgrim is India's Gen-Z indie skincare — colourful packaging, global-sourced ingredients, Shark-Tank-India famous. Affordable, Instagram-friendly, earnest.
Pros
- ✓ Modern Indian indie aesthetic
- ✓ Global-ingredient sourcing
- ✓ Budget tier
Cons
- ✗ Young brand, formulations evolving
- ✗ Marketing more refined than product
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
