COSRX Salicylic Acid Gentle Facial Cleanser, Face Wash for Acne Prone Skin, 150ml

Common questions

Is COSRX Salicylic Acid Gentle Facial Cleanser, Face Wash for Acne Prone Skin, 150ml healthy?

COSRX Salicylic Acid Gentle Facial Cleanser, Face Wash for Acne Prone Skin, 150ml scores 72/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This facial cleanser contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil, which are known for their moisturizing, exfoliating, and antimicrobial properties.

Which ingredients drive COSRX Salicylic Acid Gentle Facial Cleanser, Face Wash for Acne Prone Skin, 150ml's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil count in its favor; Polysorbate 80, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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COSRX Salicylic Acid Gentle Facial Cleanser, Face Wash for Acne Prone Skin, 150ml

COSRX
72 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$24.27 · 150 ml · $4.76 / fluid ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 4
Harmful ingredients 3
Owned by Amorepacific
Category Face Wash
Summary

This facial cleanser contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil, which are known for their moisturizing, exfoliating, and antimicrobial properties. However, the presence of fragrance, which can be an irritant and allergen, detracts from its overall safety profile. The product is moderately processed, which also influences its rating.

Key ingredients 30

Salicylic Acid
Very Good

Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid known for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties. It helps to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. It is widely used in skincare for its effectiveness in treating acne-prone skin.

Risks

Overuse can lead to dryness or irritation, especially in sensitive skin.

Benefits

Salicylic Acid helps to clear acne, reduce blackheads, and improve skin texture.

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Glycerin
Good

Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to maintain hydration. It is widely used in skincare for its moisturizing properties. It is considered safe and beneficial for most skin types.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with glycerin, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Glycerin helps to keep the skin hydrated and can improve skin barrier function.

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Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
Good

Tea Tree Oil is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce acne and soothe irritated skin. It is widely used in skincare for its natural benefits.

Risks

Tea Tree Oil can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals, especially if used in high concentrations.

Benefits

Tea Tree Oil helps to reduce acne, control oil, and soothe inflammation.

See more about Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil →
Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water
Good

Willow Bark Water is known for its anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties. It contains natural salicylates that help to clear pores and reduce acne. It is often used in skincare for its soothing and clarifying benefits.

Risks

It may cause irritation in individuals sensitive to salicylates.

Benefits

Willow Bark Water helps to exfoliate the skin, reduce acne, and soothe inflammation.

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Water
Neutral

Water is a common solvent used in cosmetic formulations. It helps dissolve other ingredients and provides a base for the product. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.

Risks

There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.

Benefits

Water helps to hydrate the skin and improve the texture of the product.

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Myristic Acid
Neutral

Myristic Acid is a fatty acid used as a cleansing agent and emulsifier in cosmetics. It helps to remove dirt and oil from the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

In rare cases, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Myristic Acid helps to cleanse the skin effectively without stripping natural oils.

Stearic Acid
Neutral

Stearic Acid is a fatty acid used as an emulsifier and thickener in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

It may cause mild irritation in sensitive skin types.

Benefits

Stearic Acid helps to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic products.

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Potassium Hydroxide
Neutral

Potassium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is a strong base that helps to neutralize acidic components. It is used in small amounts to ensure product safety.

Risks

In high concentrations, it can be irritating to the skin and eyes.

Benefits

Potassium Hydroxide helps to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the product by balancing pH levels.

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Lauric Acid
Neutral

Lauric Acid is a fatty acid used for its cleansing and emulsifying properties. It helps to remove dirt and oil from the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

It may cause irritation in individuals with sensitive skin.

Benefits

Lauric Acid helps to cleanse the skin effectively and can contribute to a smoother texture.

Butylene Glycol
Neutral

Butylene Glycol is a solvent and conditioning agent used in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.

Risks

In rare cases, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Benefits

Butylene Glycol helps to enhance the penetration of other ingredients and provides a smooth application.

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Glycol Distearate
Neutral

Glycol Distearate is used as an opacifying agent and emulsifier in cosmetics. It helps to create a pearlescent appearance and stabilize formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

It may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Glycol Distearate improves the visual appeal and texture of cosmetic products.

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Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Neutral

Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate is a mild surfactant used for its cleansing properties. It helps to remove dirt and oil from the skin without causing irritation. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

It may cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin types.

Benefits

Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate provides gentle cleansing and is suitable for sensitive skin.

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Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Neutral

Cocamidopropyl Betaine is a mild surfactant used for its cleansing and foaming properties. It helps to remove dirt and oil from the skin while being gentle. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

It may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.

Benefits

Cocamidopropyl Betaine provides gentle cleansing and is suitable for sensitive skin.

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PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Neutral

PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is an emulsifier and surfactant used to stabilize formulations. It helps to blend ingredients and improve texture. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.

Risks

There is a potential risk of contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane.

Benefits

PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil helps to improve the consistency and stability of cosmetic products.

Sodium Chloride
Neutral

Sodium Chloride is used as a thickening agent and to adjust the viscosity of cosmetic products. It helps to improve the texture and stability of formulations. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.

Risks

In high concentrations, it may cause dryness or irritation.

Benefits

Sodium Chloride helps to enhance the texture and consistency of cosmetic products.

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Caprylyl Glycol
Neutral

Caprylyl Glycol is used as a skin conditioning agent and preservative in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and moisture retention of products. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with caprylyl glycol, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Caprylyl Glycol helps to enhance the moisturizing properties and shelf life of cosmetic products.

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Ethylhexylglycerin
Neutral

Ethylhexylglycerin is used as a preservative and skin conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps to enhance the efficacy of other preservatives and improve skin feel. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

It may cause mild irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Ethylhexylglycerin helps to improve the preservation and texture of cosmetic products.

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Saccharomyces Ferment
Neutral

Saccharomyces Ferment is used for its moisturizing and conditioning properties. It helps to improve skin texture and hydration. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with saccharomyces ferment, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Saccharomyces Ferment helps to enhance skin hydration and improve texture.

Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract
Neutral

Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract is used for its antioxidant and soothing properties. It helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Cryptomeria Japonica Leaf Extract helps to soothe the skin and provide antioxidant protection.

Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract
Neutral

Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract is used for its antioxidant and soothing properties. It helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors and improve skin texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Nelumbo Nucifera Leaf Extract helps to soothe the skin and provide antioxidant protection.

Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract
Neutral

Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract is used for its antioxidant and soothing properties. It helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors and improve skin texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract helps to soothe the skin and provide antioxidant protection.

Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract
Neutral

Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract is used for its soothing and moisturizing properties. It helps to improve skin hydration and texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract helps to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract
Neutral

Evening Primrose Flower Extract is used for its soothing and moisturizing properties. It helps to improve skin hydration and texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Evening Primrose Flower Extract helps to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Pueraria Lobata Root Extract
Neutral

Pueraria Lobata Root Extract is used for its antioxidant and soothing properties. It helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors and improve skin texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with this extract, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Pueraria Lobata Root Extract helps to soothe the skin and provide antioxidant protection.

1,2-Hexanediol
Neutral

1,2-Hexanediol is used as a solvent and preservative in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and shelf life of products. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with 1,2-hexanediol, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

1,2-Hexanediol helps to enhance the preservation and texture of cosmetic products.

See more about 1,2-Hexanediol →
Ethyl Hexanediol
Neutral

Ethyl Hexanediol is used as a solvent and skin conditioning agent in cosmetics. It helps to improve the texture and spreadability of products. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with ethyl hexanediol, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Ethyl Hexanediol helps to enhance the texture and application of cosmetic products.

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Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric Acid is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations and as an exfoliant. It helps to maintain product stability and improve skin texture. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare products.

Risks

In high concentrations, it may cause irritation or sensitivity, especially in sensitive skin.

Benefits

Citric Acid helps to exfoliate the skin and maintain the stability of cosmetic products.

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Polysorbate 80
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

In rare cases, it may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Benefits

Polysorbate 80 helps to ensure even distribution of ingredients and enhances product stability.

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Disodium EDTA
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

There are minimal risks associated with disodium EDTA, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Disodium EDTA helps to enhance the stability and shelf life of cosmetic products.

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Fragrance
Very Bad

Fragrance is used to impart a pleasant scent to cosmetic products. However, it can be a common irritant and allergen for sensitive skin. It is often criticized for its potential to cause skin reactions.

Risks

Fragrance can cause irritation, allergic reactions, and sensitization, especially in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Fragrance enhances the sensory experience of using the product.

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