Brand Comparison
SNP 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)
SNP
SNP is the Korean brand that took bird's-nest extract — a traditional East Asian wellness ingredient — and built a legitimate modern skincare line around it. The Bird's Nest Aqua Ampoule Mask and Gold Collagen Eye Patch are the two bestselling formats (over 100 million sold cumulatively) and they deliver what they promise: visibly plumper, more hydrated skin after a 20-minute wear. The sialic acid in bird's nest is a genuine barrier-support active (the same one making waves in the niche biotech skincare space). Distributed at 1000+ Korean offline stores and globally via Amazon, Target, Walmart. Not the coolest brand — but a real, professional skincare line hiding behind an unusual hero ingredient.
Pros
- ✓ sialic acid from bird's nest is a legitimate barrier-support active, not just marketing
- ✓ Gold Collagen Eye Patch is a well-executed hydrogel eye patch under $1/pair
- ✓ wide global distribution including Target, Walmart, Amazon
- ✓ consistent bestseller status across multiple countries — this brand has staying power
Cons
- ✗ bird's-nest sourcing ethics are a real question — swiftlet nest harvesting is regulated but not always sustainable
- ✗ core textures can feel thin and watery (not a wintertime line)
- ✗ the branding leans heavily on 'gold' and 'premium' aesthetics that can read as gaudy
- ✗ less globally discussed than Mediheal or Dr.Jart+ in the sheet-mask category
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.
