Brand Comparison
Versed 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)
Rating7/109/10
Price RangeBudget ($)Budget ($)
Founded20192013
OriginUnited StatesSeoul, South Korea
Products432
Best Fornormal, Combo, OilyOily, Combo, Acne-Prone, Sensitive
PhilosophyTarget-aisle clean beauty — pretty packaging, decent-enough formulas, entry-priced.Minimal, effective formulations at accessible prices. Every product built around one or two proven actives with short, transparent ingredient lists.
Versed
Gets the job done for early-20s skincare shoppers. Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream and Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm are the standouts. Nothing here is going to change your life, but nothing is going to wreck your barrier either.
Pros
- ✓ Entry-level pricing
- ✓ Clean-beauty positioning without the woo
- ✓ Cute millennial packaging
Cons
- ✗ Formulas are competent but not memorable
- ✗ Fragrance in several products
- ✗ Better as a starter than an upgrade
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
