COSRX Pha Moisture Renewal Power Cream
COSRX Pha Moisture Renewal Power Cream is a specialized moisturizing treatment designed to refine skin texture while providing intensive hydration. Formulated with Gluconolactone (PHA), it offers a gentler alternative to traditional AHAs, making it an appealing choice for those seeking mild chemical exfoliation. The formula is built upon a base of Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract and Sunflower Seed Oil, which gives it a rich, emollient texture that feels deeply nourishing on the skin. This cream aims to smooth out dullness and uneven tone by gently dissolving dead skin cells overnight. While the PHA provides a soothing exfoliating effect, the product's consistency is quite thick and occlusive, thanks to the addition of beeswax and various botanical oils. It is designed to create a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss, leaving the skin feeling supple and renewed by morning. However, users with specific skin concerns should look closely at the lipid-rich profile of this COSRX favorite before adding it to their routine.
Our Analysis
Our analysis reveals that the COSRX Pha Moisture Renewal Power Cream carries a HIGH comedogenic risk level. The formula contains several potent pore-clogging ingredients, most notably Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, and Palm Kernel Oil, all of which carry a 4/5 rating. These oils are high in Lauric and Palmitic acids, which can solidify inside the pores and create a heavy film. Furthermore, the inclusion of beeswax and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride adds to the occlusive nature of the cream, potentially trapping these clogging agents against the skin and increasing the risk of inflammatory acne or congestion.
Skin Type Recommendations
This cream is best suited for very dry and dehydrated skin types that are not prone to breakouts. Its rich, occlusive nature is excellent for barrier repair. However, it is poorly suited for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin due to the high concentration of comedogenic oils that may trigger acne.
Flagged Ingredients
High Lauric Acid content solidifies inside the pore.
High saturated fat (Palmitic Acid) content creates a heavy, clogging film.
Similar to Coconut Oil; high in Lauric Acid and clogging.
Fractionated coconut oil; removed most clogging long-chain acids but can still affect some.
Fatty alcohol emollient with low-moderate comedogenicity on its own. However, when combined with Ceteareth-20, the synergistic effect can significantly increase pore-clogging potential (combined rating of 4).
Forms a breathable barrier; rarely clogs pores directly but can trap other comedogenic ingredients underneath it.
Want Deeper Analysis?
Run our MACR (Multi-Axis Comedogenic Risk) analysis to get a comprehensive 5-axis risk assessment. This AI-powered analysis evaluates ingredients for Plugging Risk, Barrier Damage, Fungal Acne Risk, Oxidation Risk, and real-world User Reports — giving you personalized scores for your skin type.
