How Ampoules Can Revolutionise Your Skincare Routine
Ampoules have been popular in Korea for some time, and now the hype has reached our shore
There are many different types of skincare products out there. From essences, serums, and facial oils, there's always something new on the market. Now, we’ve been hit with another new type of beauty product – the ampoule.
The ampoule, or ampule – whichever you prefer, they’re the same – has been quite a thing in Korea for a while now. These potent, viscous fluids, sometimes packed in vials or dropper-type bottles, are said to produce almost instant results on the skin.
But what are they, really? How are we supposed to use them? Which is the best one for our skin? Here’s what we learned:
“Ampoules are filled with highly active ingredients like pure vitamins, enzymes in various combinations, and most of the time do not contain preservatives or chemicals due to [its] air-tight packaging,” says The Face Shop trainer Cariscia Teo. The Face Shop is the parent company for Korean skincare and makeup brand VDL.
Always check the label for a symbol resembling an opened tub, the number on it tells you how long your ampoule will last – in months – once you’ve opened it.
She adds: “Due to the absence of preservatives or chemicals, its lifespan is usually quite short once it’s opened.”
Both VDL and CNP Laboratory’s ampoules last for a year after opening.
If you have a specific skincare problem to solve, yes, says Dr Lee; the use of both a serum and an ampoule will be ideal.
He however warns of the risk of heightened skin sensitivity when you first start out using an ampoule, due to its highly concentrated nature. Go slow; Dr Lee advises applying it on top of your moisturiser if it’s your first time using an ampoule.