If there’s a K-beauty brand that I haven’t really said anything bad about, it has to be COSRX.
Its products are formulated to be suitable for even the most sensitive and acne-prone skin. Hence, you can imagine what a life-saviour they have been when I was facing one of the worst breakouts in my life.
Product Description
Hydrate and smooth skin with this genius and convenient invention from Cosrx! The first ingredient in these pads is propolis extract, a naturally-occurring antiseptic that is effective in treating blemishes, acne, and redness.
Also included in the formula is hyaluronic acid, the Korean skin care favorite that provides long-lasting moisture benefits. The softly embossed texture of these pads makes them gentle enough for daily use yet effective in keeping skin soft and smooth. Use these pads to prep your skin for makeup or take them on-the-go for quick and easy exfoliation!
Fragrance-free.
Official Retail Price in Singapore: SGD 22.90 (Watsons)
Ingredient List
Propolis Extract, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Betaine, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine Salicylate, Panthenol, Allantoin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil
I’m not too keen on the presence of Butylene Glycol (I talked about this previously in my other posts) because it poses a risk for sensitive skin:
Although butylene glycol has many benefits for the skin, one of the likeliest side effects from this chemical is the potential for skin irritation. Several studies suggest that this ingredient can cause a rash around the eyes and other forms of irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. (Source: The Derm Review)
Other than that, I do like some other ingredients that I am familiar with. For instance, Propolis Extract (found in COSRX Natural BHA Skin Returning A-Sol) helps to heal and repair damaged skin. Hence, this is definitely great for people with blemished skin (aka me haha).
Review
Packaging
The packaging is very similar to that of COSRX’s One Step Pimple Clear Pads. You have these individual pre-soaked pads that you can just easily swipe on your skin.
I think it’s definitely more hygienic than having to scoop product out with your hands. These are also easy to bring around when you travel. You can just pack the number of pads you’ll need, much better than bringing a bottle around.
Texture
The pad’s texture is exactly like the pimple clear pads, rough on one side and smooth on the other.
I’m assuming that you use the rough side to clear away any dead skin while you hydrate. Definitely not complaining if my product is able to multi-task!
The liquid that the pads are pre-soaked in (and which will come off on your skin when you use the pads) is easily absorbed by skin.
I like this much better than a lot of moisturisers which are too oily & thick for me. I find this especially good to use in the morning. Using heavy creams before I apply makeup is a clear recipe for breakouts!
Effectiveness
In terms of hydration, I think this definitely works as it should. My skin feels instantly refreshed and moisturised after this, and the hyaluronic acid definitely plays a big part.
I’m still seeing blemishes and acne, but it’s definitely calmed down quite a fair bit compared to how it was before I started using this.
Final Verdict
I think this is a great alternative to the moisturisers we are used to!
It definitely saves me a lot of time, and feels much better for my skin than normal creams and gels. It’s also affordable in the long run, retailing at SGD20+ for 70 pads.
However, I’m speaking as a person with oily skin living in a humid country, and frankly I’m not too sure if this level of hydration will be enough if you have really dry skin / living in a dry climate.
You may want to use this mainly in the summer, or you can try to follow up with a hydrating mask or other moisturising creams.
Individual Rating
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