- Ampoules make a great addition to almost any skincare routine
- Ampoules have long been a staple in Korean beauty
- There are a range of ampoules available to target various skin concerns
- Ampoules are safe to use at home
If you've ever gotten a facial, your esthetician might have mentioned adding on an ampoule to your treatment. And you might have wondered... what exactly *is* an ampoule? The short answer is that ampoules are powerful serums that are meant to address specific skin concerns. And they're a great way to level up any existing skincare routine... at home or with your favorite facialist!
Keep reading to get the full ampoule definition, learn what kinds of skin concerns ampoules can help with, and discover how to incorporate an ampoule serum into your regimen.
What Does the Word “Ampoule” Mean?
Looking up the definition of the word "ampoule" may give you an unclear answer! By definition, an ampoule (which comes from the French word "ampule") is a sealed glass capsule, containing a measured amount of liquid.
But in the skincare world, an ampoule is a highly concentrated liquid treatment that's designed to address a specific skin concern. Applying an ampoule or essence has been an essential part of the Korean beauty routine for decades. Ampoules can help treat fine lines, acne, hyperpigmentation, dryness, sensitivity, and oily skin.
Which Treatments Can Ampoules Contain?
Like I said, ampoules are highly concentrated—and can contain a range of powerful ingredients, depending on the skincare goals you want to achieve. In K-beauty, you'll find ampoules made with ingredients like snail mucin, bee venom, May Rose Water, tea tree extract, and more.
Ampoules play a big role in one of my favorite Korean beauty routines—the seven skins method. In this method, 'skins' refers to essence or ampoules . So, you're applying seven layers of water-based products, usually lightweight ampoules, or other skincare essences that nourish the skin. Just delicately pat your gentle essences onto the face and décolleté in seven rounds, allowing them to dry between layers.
Some other common ingredients you'll find in skincare ampoules include peptides, niacinamide, and vitamin C. Ampoules with vitamin C, for example, are great for treating hyperpigmentation. Dealing with textured skin or acne? Ampoules with niacinamide (vitamin B3) can help control oil and reduce the appearance of pores, while ampoules with BHAs can actively fight blemishes. Want to nourish sensitive or dehydrated skin? Choose an ampoule that's formulated with cica, mugwort, or houttuynia.
So, How Can I Use Ampoules For My Skin?
You can always add an ampoule to your next in-person facial appointment... and you can start incorporating ampoules into your at-home skincare regimen, too! I have a few different ampoules available right here—these are a few of my favorites:
- Dr Esthé Goat Milk Peel & Ampoule Set: Sadly, this product has been discontinued... so grab it while you can! Made with real goat milk, this set includes an exfoliating peel as well as an ampoule. You can see incredible results in just a few minutes. The peel uses three different exfoliants to soften dead skin cells, exfoliate the skin, and lock in moisture. Just leave the peel on for about a minute, rinse your face, and then apply the included ampoule.
- HEVATOX: Glowmax Daily Skin Renewal System - Gold Ampoule: This at-home ampoule is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin. You can even use it if you're struggling with atopic dermatitis or psoriasis! This HEVATOX system is also great for reducing wrinkles, improving fine lines, and evening out skin tone, too. This system includes exfoliating pads with Hevatox serum, a CaviPLLA multi-serum, and GoldMax Gold Ampoule. This ampoule is made with 24k gold, which has been a popular skincare ingredient since ancient Egypt! It can help firm your skin, dight off acne, lighten dark spots, reduce redness, and more.
- Dr Esthé Vita-C Radiance Solution Ampoule: Begin brightening your skin in minutes with this powerful ampoule, which is made with lemon fruit water and vitamins B5, B3, C, and E. In addition to having a brightening effect, this Dr Esthe ampoule can also help correct dark spots, acne scars, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation. At home, just apply this ampoule to clean skin—let it sink in, then follow up with your favorite moisturizer.
- Dr Esthé Rejuvenating Ampoule 30mL: This milk ampoule serum is designed to hydrate and heal the skin. Containing PDRN, which is usually used as an anti-aging injectable, this serum lets you apply it topically! It's highly concentrated to help heal the skin barrier, restore elasticity, plump out wrinkles, and lock in moisture. This ampoule is a great option for sensitive skin, especially if you're looking for an anti-aging solution. Plus, it's gentle enough to use every day, in the morning and at night.
- Dr Esthé MGF Renewal Solution Ampoule: When you have damaged, aging, or depleted skin this powerful essence will bring nourishing skin renewal. Perfect for the improvement of crepey skin (skin that's lost its elasticity), is in need of nourishment following an invasive facial treatment, or to help heal sun damaged, or over-treated skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How Often Should I Use an Ampoule in My Skincare Routine?
Ampoules can be used daily or as a treatment course depending on your skin's needs and the specific product. Some ampoules are designed for daily use, while others might be more intensive and recommended for use a few times a week or in a specific treatment cycle. Always check the instructions on your ampoule product for the best results.
Question: Can Ampoules Replace My Serum or Moisturizer?
Ampoules are typically used in addition to your serum or moisturizer rather than replacing them. They are highly concentrated treatments meant to target specific skin concerns, and they work best when layered with other skincare products. For optimal results, apply your ampoule after cleansing and toning but before your serum and moisturizer.
Ampoules are for everyone!
Whether you want to fight signs of aging or get a boost of moisture, ampoules can truly benefit a wide range of skin types and concerns. Ask your esthetician about an ampoule the next time you get a facial—or shop my site to start using ampoules at home!
Are you on a skincare journey—and need more support? Join me in the Christine Byer Beauty Club. I offer a 14-Day FREE preview with full access to everything in the Club. It's the perfect place to get personalized support for all of your skincare questions, including more information on ampoules. Plus, score exclusive access to savings and the opportunity to win a FREE consultation. If you don’t find value in your membership, you can cancel within the 14 days at absolutely no charge.