Brand Comparison
Shu Uemura vs COSRX
A head-to-head comparison of two popular K-beauty brands. Which one is right for your skin?
Our Pick
COSRX
Larger product range
Rating9/109/10
Price RangePremium ($$$)Budget ($)
Founded19602013
OriginJapanSeoul, South Korea
Products331
Best ForDry, Combo, MatureOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophyJapanese artistry meets skincare science — the cleansing oil pioneerMinimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Shu Uemura
Invented the cleansing oil category and never stopped innovating. Luxury J-beauty at its finest.
Pros
- ✓ Invented cleansing oils
- ✓ Luxurious textures
- ✓ Japanese artistry
- ✓ Botanical expertise
Cons
- ✗ Very expensive
- ✗ Limited availability outside Asia
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
