Brand Comparison

Typology 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 7.5)

Typology COSRX

Rating7.5/109/10

Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)

Founded20192013

OriginParis, FranceSeoul, South Korea

Products531

Best Fornormal, Combo, DryOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive

PhilosophySingle-ingredient serums, minimalist design, DTC-native — the French Ordinary with better packaging.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.

Typology

The Ordinary arrived in Paris and got a face-lift. Typology sells single-ingredient serums at €15–30, with a clean ingredient-first architecture. Formulation quality is real but mostly unspectacular — you're paying for French minimalist packaging and convenience, not clinical superiority. Very on-brand for the 'French chemistry student' aesthetic.

Pros

✓ Single-active serums at approachable prices
✓ Beautiful minimalist packaging
✓ Strong DTC experience
✓ Honest ingredient labeling

Cons

✗ Formulations are competent but not superior to dupes
✗ Limited testing data on newer launches
✗ Some serums underperform vs. The Ordinary equivalents

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