Brand Comparison
Sebamed 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 8.3)
Rating8.3/109/10
Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)
Founded19672013
OriginGermanySeoul, South Korea
Products832
Best ForSensitive, eczema, compromised-barrierOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophypH 5.5 — matched to the skin's acid mantle, nothing else.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Sebamed
A German medical-drugstore brand built entirely around one biochemistry fact: skin's natural pH is 5.5, and most soap is 9+. That's it, that's the brand. Works exactly as claimed, which is more than most.
Pros
- ✓ Entire line calibrated to pH 5.5
- ✓ Widely recommended by dermatologists for compromised barriers
- ✓ Unbeatable value at apotheke pricing
Cons
- ✗ Zero branding personality — institutional packaging
- ✗ Product range feels like a 1990s catalogue
- ✗ Not exciting, just effective
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
