Ampoules Are the Upgraded Serum You Need in Your Routine

Korean beauty trends have influenced the skin-care world in more ways than we can count. Skin-care fanatics everywhere are becoming eager to incorporate more K-Beauty products — from sheet masks to essences — into their regimens. One of the latest product trends? Ampoules. An “ampoule” may not sound familiar to you yet, but that’s all about to change. Should you add an ampoule to your skin-care arsenal? We answer that, and more, ahead.

What Are Ampoules?

Ampoules are skin-care products that come in either plastic or glass vials that you break open just before you use them. They contain high concentrations of specific ingredients. Think of them as a serum, just with a higher potency. They’re a way to boost your skin quickly and efficiently and address your key skin concerns. Ampoules are also tiny enough to be portable, so you can use them any time, anywhere. Just be sure you carve enough time out of your day to allow for full absorption. You don’t want to apply a supercharged ampoule only to risk wiping the formula away with the rest of your skin-care routine that follows.    

What Do Ampoules Do?

Ampoules have been a staple in the Korean beauty-sphere for quite some time. Similar to serums, ampoules are able to target specific skin-care issues that someone may be looking to improve. These concerns can include dull skin, dryness, signs of aging, rough texture, discoloration, dark spots and more.  

Should You Include an Ampoule in Your Skin-Care Routine?

If you’re searching for a way to address a skin concern with more potency than your current serum, ampoules are the way to go. They’re very easy to incorporate into your skin-care routine and can be extremely versatile. Depending on your ampoule of choice, you can apply it before applying an essence or serum. Other formulas may allow you to top off your routine with it as a final step before bed.

Need a few product recommendations for which ampoules to try? We included our favorites, ahead.

Lancôme Absolue Overnight Bi-Ampoule 

This dual-phased formula works to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and unveil a gorgeous glow. It includes 25% oil phase with moisturizing sunflower seed oil, vitamin E and rose oil, and 75% essence phase which includes tri-ceramides, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid and bifidus prebiotic to repair the skin’s moisture barrier. Note: This one comes in a bottle rather than individual vials.

Vichy Liftactiv Specialist Peptide-C Anti-Aging Ampoules 

Formulated with anti-aging peptides, 10% pure vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, these ampoules address signs of aging like wrinkles, loss of firmness and lack of radiance in the skin. 

Babor Pollution Protect Ampoule Serum Concentrates

To protect the skin against environmental pollution, like UV radiation, harmful blue light, smoke, smog and more, these ampoules contain an active concentrate of probiotics and vitamin E. 

Isdin Isdinceutics Flavo-C Ultraglican

These ampoules are made with a potent blend of vitamin C, proteoglycans and pre-proteoglycans (which support firmness and elasticity) and hyaluronic acid to improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and promote a radiant, hydrated complexion.

Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Acid Ampoules

For an instant boost of hydration and soothing comfort, these ampoules contain hyaluronic acid for moisture, and purslane, a strong antioxidant that supports skin health. 

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

Read More: 

6 Affordable Ampoules to Try This Spring

How to Open Ampoules — Because Even Our Beauty Editors Weren’t Sure

Serums, Ampoules, Emulsions and Essences: Is There Really a Difference?