Ampoules: The Latest Korean Skin Care Product You Need to Know
NET-A-PORTER (Erno Laszlo Transphuse Rapid Renewal Cell Protocol, 15ml)
By Danielle Fox for The EDIT
The latest pioneering product from Korea? Supercharged skincare in a shot.
Ampoules are a high-potency skin booster, delivered in daily or weekly ‘shots’; think a vial of super-serum packed with actives, which works double-time on everything from blemishes to fine lines. “Ampoules contain a higher concentration of vitamins and enzymes,” says Alicia Yoon, founder of Korean beauty website Peach & Lily. “In some, the molecule size is smaller than that of a serum, so it can penetrate deeper into the dermis.”
Koreans use ampoules in addition to toner, serum and eye cream. “Apply them between your cleansing and toning steps,” instructs Yoon. Lightly exfoliate beforehand to maximize the benefits, as dead cells on the skin’s surface will hinder absorption. Just remember that due to the potent actives, skin can become sensitive at first, so a few drops is plenty.
Most ampoules come in airtight packaging to protect potency, and often don’t contain preservatives. As a result they have a short lifespan, so check the label for a symbol of an opened tub – the number on it tells you how many months it will last after opening.
Layer a light moisturizer after applying it to prevent ingredients from evaporating. And on days when skin needs extra help, follow with a mask to push the actives even deeper into the skin.
