AC Collection Calming Liquid Intensive

COSRX AC Collection Calming Liquid Intensive is the fast-acting first step of the brand's acne routine — an essence liquid that purifies and cools skin in the middle of a breakout. COSRX positions it as a total solution that runs from purifying through to recovery, and it has completed clinical testing for safe use on acne-prone skin.

What it actually does

• Purifies and cools troubled skin. COSRX describes it as an intensive liquid that refreshes acne-prone skin quickly.
• 0.9% BHA and 1.5% AHA. The brand includes both to handle excess dead skin build-up on congested areas.
• Zinc PCA for oil. COSRX credits it with strong sebum-absorbing effects.
• CentellAC-RX for soothing. The brand's centella blend is what delivers the calming side of the formula.
• 60% propolis extract. Included so the skin does not end up dry or irritated after intense acne care — the counterweight to the acids.
• Absorbs quickly. COSRX designs the essence to carry its actives in fast rather than sitting on the surface.
• Note: it contains alcohol, which COSRX states is plant-derived.

How to use

1. Soak a cotton pad and sweep it gently over the face, keeping away from the eye area.
2. Pat the remainder in with clean fingertips so nothing is wasted.
3. Follow with the rest of your routine. As step one, everything else goes on top.
4. Use SPF the next morning. With AHA and BHA in the formula, sun protection is part of the routine.

Is it right for you?

Questions

Is the alcohol going to dry me out?

COSRX notes the alcohol is derived from plants and offsets it with a 60% propolis extract specifically so skin is not left dry or irritated after intensive acne care. If you are already dry, start every other night.

Where does it fit in my routine?

COSRX labels it Step 1 of the AC Collection, so it goes on right after cleansing, before serums and moisturiser.

Has it been tested for acne-prone skin?

COSRX states the formula completed clinical testing for safe use on acne-prone skin. That covers tolerance rather than guaranteeing a result — individual skin varies.

Can I layer it with another acid product?

Better not to. It already carries AHA and BHA; stacking more acids on top is how most people end up with a compromised barrier. Pick one acid step per routine.

Delivery, payment and returns?

Delivery takes 3 to 21 working days, depending on availability. Pay by credit card, debit card, Instapay or mobile wallets — cash on delivery is not available. Returns cover defective, damaged or expired items only, reported within 1 day of delivery, with refunds issued to the original payment method within 15–30 days.