Cosrx

COSRX earned its reputation through a handful of genuinely effective, no-frills products before becoming one of the most recognized Korean skincare names globally — the pimple patch that started the whole category, the snail mucin essence that's still one of the most reordered products in K-beauty, and a salicylic acid cleanser dermatologists actually recommend. Here's the range grouped by what each line actually does.

Pimple patches: the original, and what's changed since

The Acne Pimple Master Patch is the hydrocolloid patch that popularized the entire category — it draws out fluid from a fresh blemish and protects it from picking, speeding up healing versus leaving it exposed. The newer Clear Fit Master Patch and Master Patch Clear Fit use a thinner, more invisible film for daytime wear under makeup.

Snail mucin: the essence that built COSRX's global reputation

The Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is the product most people mean when they say "COSRX snail mucin" — 96% snail secretion filtrate for hydration and repair, applied after toner and before moisturizer. The line extends into the Snail 92 All-in-One Cream, Snail Hydrogel Eye Patch, Snail Peptide Eye Cream, and Snail Radiance Dual Serum. For a complete routine at once, the All About Snail 4-Step Kit bundles the essentials together.

Salicylic acid: the cleanser dermatologists actually recommend

The Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser is formulated gently enough for daily use while still clearing the pore congestion that causes most breakouts. Pair it with the BHA Blackhead Power Liquid for blackhead-prone areas or the AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner for more general congestion and texture.

PDRN: COSRX's newer recovery-focused line

The 5 PDRN Collagen Intense Vitalizing Serum and 5 PDRN B5 Vital Soothing Toner pair PDRN with hydrating and soothing actives, extending into a hydrating hydrogel mask and collagen eye patch.

Everyday actives: niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol

The "The [Ingredient]" line keeps things simple — The Niacinamide 15 Serum, The Hyaluronic Acid 3 Serum, The Vitamin C 23 Serum, and The Retinol 0.5 Serum — each a single concentrated active rather than a blended formula, so it's clear exactly what's being layered.

Sun protection

The Ultra Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF50 PA+++ and Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ both finish light and non-greasy, with the Airy-Light Sun Stick as a portable reapplication option.

Frequently asked questions

Do pimple patches actually work?

Yes, for a fresh, non-cystic blemish — they draw out fluid and prevent picking, which speeds healing and reduces scarring risk compared to leaving a spot untreated or picking at it.

What is snail mucin, and is it safe?

Snail secretion filtrate, collected without harming the snails, used for its hydrating and skin-repairing properties. It's broadly considered safe and non-irritating, including for sensitive skin.

Can I use the salicylic acid cleanser every day?

Yes — it's formulated at a gentle concentration specifically for daily use, unlike stronger BHA treatments meant for occasional use only.

Snail mucin or PDRN — which should I choose?

Snail mucin for general hydration and everyday repair. PDRN for more targeted recovery and firmness, often chosen by people wanting a more intensive anti-aging effect.

Ready to build a routine? Browse Korean Skincare (K-Beauty), or shop Acne & Blemishes across every brand we carry.