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Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer

Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer

Product Description

Product overview

Made in South Korea K-BEAUTY

A lightweight, oil-free gel-cream moisturizer formulated with COSRX's exclusive CentellAC-Rx Complex to calm, soothe, and hydrate acne-prone skin without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.

Oil-Free Fragrance-Free Paraben-Free Cruelty-Free EWG Green Grade Non-Comedogenic Vegan Dermatologist Tested
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
80ml / 2.7 fl.oz
Price
$18-25
Type
Gel-Cream
Best For
Acne-Prone
Use
AM & PM
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

CentellAC-Rx Complex

COSRX's proprietary blend of Centella Asiatica actives (Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid) to calm inflammation and repair skin barrier.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel-Cream
Scent
Subtle Tea Tree/Mint
Absorption
30-60 seconds
Finish
Natural/Semi-Matte

CentellAC-Rx Complex

COSRX's proprietary blend of Centella Asiatica actives (Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid) to calm inflammation and repair skin barrier.

Propolis Extract

Natural antibacterial ingredient that helps fight acne-causing bacteria while providing antioxidant protection and moisture.

Niacinamide + Zinc PCA

Powerful duo that controls excess sebum production, minimizes pores, and brightens post-acne marks over time.

Cooling Menthol Effect

Menthyl Lactate provides a gentle cooling sensation that soothes heated, irritated, and inflamed acne-prone skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Free from retinoids, high-concentration salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. Contains only Betaine Salicylate which is a gentler BHA derivative safe during pregnancy.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (ester), Cetearyl Alcohol, and Sorbitan Olivate which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have confirmed fungal acne.

Sensitive Skin Compatible

Hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested formula. All ingredients rated EWG Green Grade. Free from fragrance, parabens, and harsh irritants.

Tea Tree Oil Sensitivity

Contains Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil. Those with essential oil sensitivities should patch test first.

Retinol & Vitamin C Compatible

Can be layered with retinol and vitamin C products. Apply this moisturizer after water-based serums and before heavier creams.

Propolis Allergy Note

Contains Propolis Extract. If you're allergic to bee products or honey, perform a patch test before full-face application.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

CentellAC-Rx Complex 0.1-0.5%Proven

COSRX's proprietary blend containing three active compounds derived from Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola): Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, and Asiatic Acid. This complex works synergistically to calm inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and promote wound healing.

  • Madecassic Acid (0.05-0.25%): Protects and calms irritated skin, reduces redness
  • Asiaticoside (0.10-0.30%): Promotes collagen synthesis, helps maintain skin transparency
  • Asiatic Acid (0.05-0.25%): Strengthens skin barrier, helps maintain pH balance
Clinical studies show Centella Asiatica actives significantly improve wound healing and reduce inflammation markers.

Niacinamide 2-4%Proven

Also known as Vitamin B3, niacinamide is a powerhouse ingredient proven to regulate sebum production, minimize enlarged pores, fade hyperpigmentation, and strengthen the skin barrier.

  • Study: 2% niacinamide reduced sebum excretion rate by 23% over 4 weeks
  • Benefits: Anti-blemish, brightening, anti-aging, reduces irritation
  • Comedogenic Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Propolis Extract First ingredientPromising

A natural resinous substance produced by honeybees. Listed as the first ingredient, propolis provides antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits while moisturizing and adding a healthy glow to dehydrated skin.

  • Function: Antibacterial against acne-causing P. acnes bacteria
  • Bonus: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds for antioxidant protection
Can be an allergen for those sensitive to bee products. Patch test recommended if you have known bee allergies.

Zinc PCA 0.5-1%Proven

The zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), known for its sebum-regulating, antibacterial, and skin-healing properties. Especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types.

  • Function: Regulates excess oil production
  • Benefit: Promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation
  • Synergy: Works excellently with niacinamide for enhanced pore-minimizing effects

Tea Tree Leaf Oil <0.5%Proven

A legendary antibacterial and anti-inflammatory essential oil from Australia. Contains terpinen-4-ol as the main active compound that fights acne-causing bacteria.

  • Study: 5% tea tree oil showed comparable efficacy to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne
  • Note: Present in low concentration for gentle antibacterial action without irritation

Sodium Hyaluronate 0.1-0.5%Proven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular weight for better skin penetration. Provides deep hydration by attracting and holding up to 1000x its weight in water.

  • Function: Humectant that draws moisture into skin
  • Benefit: Plumps skin and reduces appearance of fine lines

30 ingredients

Propolis Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Cyclomethicone, Cetearyl Olivate, Betaine, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Panthenol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arginine, Zinc PCA, Betaine Salicylate, Mentha Haplocalix Extract, Menthyl Lactate, Citric Acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid

FREE FROM: Artificial Fragrance, Parabens, Mineral Oil, Silicone (minimal), Sulfates, Phthalates, Gluten, Dyes/Colorants, Formaldehyde, Animal-Derived Ingredients
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum/Essence
4
This Moisturizer
5
Spot Treatment
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Tip: For very oily skin, this can be your final step. For dry patches, layer a heavier cream on top. Works great under makeup and sunscreen without pilling.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Prep

Start with clean, toned skin. Apply your toner and any water-based serums or essences first.

2

Dispense Product

Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this formula.

3

Apply to Face

Gently dot the moisturizer across your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Avoid the eye area.

4

Pat & Press

Using gentle pressing motions, pat the product into your skin for better absorption. Don't rub harshly.

5

Follow Up (AM)

Wait 30-60 seconds for absorption, then apply sunscreen. For PM, follow with spot treatment if needed.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
  • Heavy moisturizers feel greasy and clog your pores
  • You need hydration without adding shine
  • Your skin is easily irritated or inflamed
  • You're looking for a pregnancy-safe acne moisturizer
  • You want a simple, EWG-rated clean formula
  • You experience heated, red, or sensitive skin

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have confirmed fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
  • Your skin is very dry and needs intense moisture
  • You're allergic to bee products or propolis
  • You have essential oil sensitivities (contains tea tree)
  • You prefer completely fragrance-free products
  • You need heavy anti-aging benefits
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Perfect match! Lightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Zinc PCA and niacinamide help control excess sebum throughout the day.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily zones. Can layer heavier cream on dry patches.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Formulated specifically for acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic, antibacterial propolis and tea tree oil, plus soothing Centella for post-acne healing.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested. Contains soothing Centella and Aloe. Patch test recommended due to tea tree oil and propolis.

Dry Skin
Moderate

May not provide enough moisture alone. Works well as a lightweight layer in humid weather or when layered under a richer cream in dry climates.

Mature Skin
Moderate

Provides basic hydration and niacinamide benefits but lacks targeted anti-aging ingredients like retinol or peptides. Best paired with anti-aging serums.

08

Results timeline

6-8 WEEKS
Immediately

Instant Hydration & Cooling

Feel immediate lightweight hydration and a gentle cooling sensation from menthyl lactate. Skin feels calmed and soothed without greasiness.

95% noticed immediate comfort
1-2 Weeks

Reduced Redness & Irritation

Centella Asiatica actives begin to visibly calm inflammation. Existing breakouts start healing faster, and overall skin tone appears more even.

75% saw reduced redness
3-4 Weeks

Fewer Breakouts & Balanced Oil

Niacinamide and Zinc PCA regulate sebum production. Users report fewer new breakouts and less midday shine. Pores may appear minimized.

70% experienced fewer breakouts
6-8 Weeks

Improved Skin Texture & Clarity

Consistent use shows improved overall skin texture, faded post-acne marks, and a clearer, more balanced complexion. Skin barrier is strengthened.

65% noticed brighter, clearer skin
09

Ratings by platform

12K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.5
Rating
8,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some found it not moisturizing enough for very dry skin
iHerb
4.6
Rating
2,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Slightly tacky feel before full absorption
YesStyle
4.4
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Package size feels small for the price
Sephora UK
4.3
Rating
450+
Reviews
Main complaint: May cause breakouts for some very oily skin types
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula perfect for oily skin
  • Calms redness and inflammation effectively
  • Oil-free, doesn't clog pores or cause new breakouts
  • Pleasant cooling sensation soothes irritated skin
  • Clean formula with EWG Green Grade ingredients
  • Works well under makeup and sunscreen without pilling
  • Affordable K-beauty price point
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe

Criticized

  • Not moisturizing enough for dry or very dry skin
  • Contains ingredients that can feed fungal acne
  • Slight tacky feeling during absorption for some users
  • Tea tree scent may be off-putting to some
  • 80ml tube runs out quickly with twice-daily use
  • Propolis may irritate those with bee allergies
  • Some users report dewy finish too much for daytime
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Oil Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap
$18.00
Same Brand

From the same brand but uses Birch Sap instead of Propolis. Similarly lightweight and oil-free, great for oily skin. Lacks the CentellAC-Rx Complex but includes 70% birch sap for hydration.

75% Match
Wonder Releaf Centella Cream Unscented
$16.00
Budget Pick

Another K-beauty option with 50% Centella Asiatica extract. Completely fragrance-free and fungal acne safe. Slightly richer texture but still lightweight. No propolis or tea tree.

70% Match
Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel
$14.00
Budget Pick

More gel-like texture with aloe and propolis. Even lighter than COSRX AC moisturizer. Great for very humid climates or extremely oily skin. May need layering for adequate moisture.

65% Match
Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3%
$15.00
Budget Pick

Western alternative with higher niacinamide concentration. Oil-free gel-cream texture similar to COSRX. Lacks Centella and propolis but effective for pore minimizing and oil control.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
EFFACLAR K+
Key Active Sebulyse Technology + Perlite
Size 40ml
Texture Mattifying Cream
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance-Free Yes
PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Key Active Ceramides + Niacinamide
Size 89ml
Texture Lightweight Lotion
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance-Free Yes
Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer
Key Active Niacinamide + Ceramides
Size 60ml
Texture Lightweight Gel-Cream
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance-Free Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Mark the date you opened the product on the tube to track freshness.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The formula may turn slightly brown if exposed to heat or light - this is natural oxidation of propolis.

Packaging

Soft squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination. Made from recycled materials supporting sustainability.

Travel Friendly

Yes, 80ml is under the 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Compact tube fits easily in toiletry bags.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes, this moisturizer is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, high-concentration salicylic acid (only Betaine Salicylate which is gentler), hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The Centella Asiatica, propolis, and niacinamide ingredients are all pregnancy-safe. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare during pregnancy.

No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (an ester), Cetearyl Alcohol, and Sorbitan Olivate. If you have confirmed fungal acne/malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like PURITO Centella Unscented Recovery Cream or products verified on fungal acne safe databases.

Yes! This moisturizer is compatible with most active ingredients. For retinol: apply retinol first, wait 5-10 minutes, then apply this moisturizer to buffer and hydrate. For vitamin C: use vitamin C in AM, this moisturizer works well on top. For AHA/BHA: use exfoliating acids, wait for absorption, then apply this moisturizer. The soothing Centella complex can help calm any irritation from actives.

This moisturizer is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its lightweight, oil-free gel-cream formula won't add excess shine or clog pores. It's also good for sensitive skin that reacts to heavy products. Those with dry skin may find it insufficient alone but can layer it under a richer cream. It's specifically formulated to address acne concerns while providing balanced hydration.

Results timeline varies: Immediate - cooling sensation and hydration. 1-2 weeks - reduced redness and calmer skin. 3-4 weeks - fewer new breakouts, better oil control. 6-8 weeks - improved skin texture, faded post-acne marks. For best results, use consistently twice daily (AM and PM) as part of a complete skincare routine.

Apply this moisturizer as step 4-5 in your routine: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner, 3) Essence/Serum, 4) This Moisturizer, 5) Spot treatment (PM) or Sunscreen (AM). The general rule is thin to thick - this lightweight moisturizer should go before heavier creams or oils. It layers well under sunscreen and makeup without pilling.

This moisturizer has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is labeled non-comedogenic by COSRX. The oil-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. However, individual reactions vary - some ingredients like Cetearyl Alcohol can cause breakouts in very sensitive individuals. If you're highly acne-prone, patch test on your jawline for a week before full-face application.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve the formula. If the product changes color significantly (beyond slight browning from propolis oxidation), develops an off smell, or changes texture, discontinue use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.4 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The COSRX AC Collection Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer is an excellent choice for those with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin seeking a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that won't aggravate breakouts. Its CentellAC-Rx Complex effectively calms inflammation and promotes healing, while niacinamide and zinc PCA help control oil and minimize pores. The clean, EWG-rated formula is pregnancy-safe and cruelty-free. However, it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers due to ester and fatty alcohol content, and very dry skin types may need to layer a heavier moisturizer on top. At its price point, it offers great value for K-beauty quality and performs exceptionally well under makeup and sunscreen.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Citric Acid Madecassic Acid
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 10 ingredient(s):
Propolis Extract Glycerin Niacinamide Panthenol Allantoin Sodium Hyaluronate Arginine Zinc PCA Citric Acid Asiaticoside
ache Ache-fighting from 5 ingredient(s):
Propolis Extract Cetyl Ethylhexanoate Niacinamide Zinc PCA Betaine Salicylate
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
5
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
5
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
2
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
80% 20%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 30 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Propolis Extract
Skin Conditioning
ache Ache-fighting
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
1 B
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water
Masking
0 Unknown
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water
Masking, Perfuming, Tonic
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
1 B
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
ache Ache-fighting
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS