COSRX is one of those brands that either immediately rings a bell or could slip right under your radar. This time around, it’s their Ultimate Moisturizing Honey Overnight Mask that caught my attention. The name alone sets high expectations for a sweet skin treat, and according to the brand, it’s a 3-in-1 moisturizing mask enriched with propolis extract (great for soothing stressed skin) and beeswax.
The allure lies in its versatility, an overnight mask, wash-off mask, or morning moisturizer all rolled into one. Over the course of a full week, I put it to the test, assessing just how effective it really is and whether it’s worth your hard-earned money.
Note: This review is not paid or sponsored; all opinions are my own. As with any skincare product, individual results may vary.
What Is Ultimate Moisturizing Honey Overnight Mask?
This product is presented as a 3-in-1 moisturizing solution designed to deliver an extra layer of hydration before you go to bed. It’s classified as a night cream, a category of skincare meant to work overnight, when the skin’s natural renewal process is at its peak. Night creams often have richer formulas, helping to lock in moisture and support skin repair while you sleep.
According to COSRX, this mask can be applied in three distinct ways: an overnight sleeping pack, a wash-off mask, or a thin morning moisturizer. Its main ingredients include propolis extract (known for its soothing and antibacterial properties) and beeswax. Despite these components, the concept remains straightforward: it’s a product intended to offer the skin a moisture boost, especially for those who want a single item that can do multiple jobs in a nighttime routine.
Did It Work?
Swapped out my usual night cream for a few days, feeling very scientific about it, and strictly used the Ultimate Moisturizing Honey Overnight Mask as my sole overnight treatment. For the first couple of nights, I applied a slightly thicker layer than I would with my regular cream, and noticed a gentle cooling sensation on my skin. Waking up, it felt decently moisturized, though not drastically different from my normal routine.
By mid-week, I tried using a thinner layer (per COSRX’s suggestion for a morning moisturizer). While it did absorb quickly and gave a subtle glow for the first half of the day, it wasn’t quite hydrating enough to keep dryness at bay in colder weather. On the plus side, my skin never felt irritated, and the propolis extract seemed to help calm minor redness around my cheeks.
After the seventh night, I can say it did provide a boost of hydration and a little bit of smoothness, though nothing too transformative. Its 3-in-1 claim holds up to a degree, I liked the versatility of switching between overnight mask, wash-off mask, and morning moisturizer, but it didn’t fully replace my usual night cream, and I’m not itching to permanently add it to my routine. In short, it works to a point, just not impressively enough for a spot on my top shelf.
Ultimate Moisturizing Honey Overnight Mask’s Main Ingredients Explained
The formula centers around propolis extract, which is a standout ingredient known for its soothing and antibacterial properties. Propolis is produced by bees, meaning this product isn’t suitable for strict vegans. However, vegetarians who are comfortable with bee-derived ingredients may still consider giving it a try.
Next on the list is beeswax, again, not vegan-friendly, but it helps create a protective barrier that locks hydration in. Some sources classify beeswax as mildly comedogenic (meaning it could, in certain individuals, block pores and cause breakouts), but many people find it non-irritating and beneficial for maintaining moisture.
Beyond the bee-based components, there’s hyaluronic acid (listed as “Sodium Hyaluronate”), which is well-regarded for its ability to attract and hold on to water, helping skin look plumper and feel more hydrated. Glycerin, betaine, and butylene glycol are also present and serve as humectants, drawing moisture into the skin.
Dimethicone is included for its smoothing properties, and while some might shy away from silicones, it usually doesn’t cause issues for most users. Still, if you’re sensitive to silicone-based formulas, it’s worth noting. Last but not least is adenosine, which is often used for its potential anti-wrinkle benefits.
Overall, the ingredients aim to hydrate, calm, and protect the skin barrier without causing much irritation. If you have concerns about comedogenicity or prefer vegan products, this formulation might not be your perfect fit. Otherwise, it’s packed with reliable moisturizers that can complement a straightforward nighttime routine.
What I Liked/Didn’t Like
Here’s a quick overview of the pros and cons based on my experience:
What Works Well:
- The 3-in-1 functionality offers flexibility in a single product
- Lightweight on the skin and absorbs quickly
- Propolis extract and beeswax help calm minor redness
- Provides a pleasant layer of moisture for normal to slightly dry skin types
What to Consider:
- May not provide deep hydration in colder, dryer climates
- Some might find it not rich enough to replace a dedicated night cream
- Includes bee-derived ingredients, so may not suit strict vegan preferences
- Contains dimethicone, which may be a consideration for silicone-sensitive users
My Final Thoughts
This overnight mask certainly lives up to its name in terms of providing a helpful shot of moisture, though maybe not quite enough to declare it a new holy grail. The 3-in-1 approach is inventive, and I can see it appealing to anyone looking for a quick, no-fuss option in a busy routine. Personally, I’ve seen better results from other nighttime hydrators, but if you’re after a “something extra” product that’s gentle and feels good on the skin, it’ll do the trick. My experience with similar night creams led me to give it a fair shake, and while I wasn’t entirely bowled over, I still appreciate the versatility.
Anyone with normal to slightly dry skin who wants a multipurpose option might enjoy it, especially if you like lighter textures and want a gentle formula that calms. Those with particularly dry or demanding skin, however, might find it lacking that extra kick of richness. Give it a 6.5 out of 10 overall, decent but not game-changing, and I’d probably recommend a more specialized night cream for anyone needing a deeper hydration boost. Would I tell a friend about it? Sure, but only if they’re after a lightweight, bee-derived treat and aren’t strict vegans.
Plenty of alternatives can match or surpass this product’s promise of deeper nourishment. For instance, Nocturnal Revive Cream by Deascal is an excellent all-rounder that checks all boxes for hydration, soothing, and affordability, hands down one of my most reliable go-tos. When I’m in the mood for a more intensive formula, I reach for Advanced Night Restore by Medik8, which has impressed me with its superb moisture retention. For a luxurious midnight treat, Superfood Midnight Facial by ELEMIS does a top-notch job of revitalizing dull skin, while those craving a cleaner approach can try Squalane + Ectoin Overnight Rescue by BIOSSANCE for a more eco-oriented and equally hydrating option. I’ve personally used each of these and find them all worthy contenders, each with its own twist on overnight rejuvenation.
Before slathering this or any product on, remember that it’s always wise to do a patch test. Formulas vary, and wonderfully hydrating ingredients for one person might irritate another. It’s also essential to note that any beneficial effects you see need consistent use for long-term upkeep, just as your skin doesn’t transform overnight, those sought-after results will only stick around with continued care.