Whether you’re a skincare newbie or a seasoned pro, navigating the world of skincare products can be overwhelming. We understand the confusion that comes with terms like face ampoule and serum. We’ve been there too, staring at endless shelves of products, unsure of what to choose.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help. We’ve gathered all the information you need to understand ampoules and find the best ones for your skincare routine.
What is a face ampoule?
Photo source: @ma_mabeauty on Instagram
The meaning of an ampoule is “a small, sealed glass capsule containing a liquid, especially a measured quantity ready for injecting”.
While this doesn’t really reflect skincare ampoules for the face, they are described as high-concentrated liquid treatments targeting specific skincare concerns.
Sometimes ampoules come in single-application packages, while other times they come in smaller bottles with droppers.
Face ampoule vs serum
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Ampoules and serums are quite similar, as they are both concentrated skincare products designed for specific purposes.
The only clear difference is how potent they are, as serums are typically gentle enough for day-to-day use, while ampoules are more suitable for occasional treatments.
They are for when your skincare routine needs a boost or when you need to treat a specific skin concern quickly and efficiently, such as the night before an important date.
When to use a face ampoule?
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Like we mentioned earlier, an ampoule should only be used every once in a while, instead of everyday, due to the high potency of ingredients.
Generally, you should apply an ampoule after cleansing and toning and before moisturising. If you’re familiar with the Korean 10-step skincare routine, you can use it in place of your serum.
But instead of rubbing it into your skin, you should pat it in gently, allowing for better absorption of the product.
Best face ampoules in Malaysia
For anti-ageing
Eunyul Snail Ampoule
This is a wrinkle-fighting face ampoule that uses snail mucin which is known for moisturising and promoting collagen and skin regeneration.
It also has skin-calming ingredients such as licorice root extract, camellia sinesis leaf extract,
It retails for RM69. A discount is offered at the time of writing. Tap on the link to see updated price.
Innisfree Black Tea Youth Enhancing Ampoule
If you love the scent of tea, you’re going to love this anti-ageing face ampoule from Innisfree.
It targets the five signs of fatigued skin: dryness, dull skin, overall skin condition, skin texture, and sensitive skin.
It retails for RM156.
For brightening + dark spots
Mizon Real Vitamin C Ampoule
This is a pure waterless face ampoule that is made with 19% natural pure vitamin C, allowing it to stabilise effectively and deliver the ingredients into the skin.
With ten great ingredients, it also moisturises, provides nutrition as well as add vitality to the skin.
It retails for RM99.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule
Made with a triple-brightening complex, it contains 4% niacinamide, 2% tranexamic acid, and 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid.
It’s great for calming your skin too, as it contains 77% centella asiatica extract, which has rapid soothing effect.
It retails for RM49. A discount is offered at the time of writing. Tap on the link to see updated price.
For moisturising
Cosrx Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule
Recommended for dry, flaky, and dehydrated skin, this face ampoule has three major hydrating ingredients: hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and sodium hyaluronate.
One thing to note when applying this ampoule is that you need to avoid the eye and mouth area.
It retails for Rm108.80. A discount is offered at the time of writing. Tap on the link to see updated price.
Pyunkang Yul Cosmetic Moisture Ampoule
If you’re looking to quench your thirsty skin, try this hydrating face ampoule that is free of artificial fragrances and colouring and is hypo-allergenic.
It has a honey-like consistency that melts into your skin for a smooth and bouncy texture.
It retails for RM99.
For peeling
beplain BHA Peeling Ampoule
Suitable for all skin types, you can use this ampoule if you have a rough complexion.
It uses BHA (salicylic acid) to reduce oil, tighten pores, and enhance cell turnover, resulting in a more even skin texture.
It retails for RM110. A discount is offered at the time of writing. Tap on the link to see updated price.
Nature Republic Good Skin Ampoule (AHA)
Although Nature Republic has many face ampoule products, we have to recommend their AHA face ampoule.
Great for normal to oily skin types, it smoothes the appearance of pores and boosts cell turnover for a clearer complexion.
(Psst, if you want to read about the difference between AHA and BHA, check out our other article!)
It retails for Rm65.89.
For soothing and acne
beplain Cicaful Ampoule II
Packed with 81.44% centella asiatica extract, this face ampoule delivers antioxidants, soothes, and moisturises the skin.
This is suitable for all skin types, especially those with dry and sensitive skin.
It retails for RM110. A discount is offered at the time of writing. Tap on the link to see updated price.
Cosrx Full Fit Propolis Light Ampoule
This is a face ampoule that you can use all year round for extra nourished skin and a healthy glow.
It contains 83% black bee propolis extract, which can help to heal stressed skin and reduce redness.
It retails for RM117.
Ma:nyo Blemish Red Ampoule
If you’re dealing with acne and skin inflammation, consider picking up this blemish-treating face ampoule.
Lightweight and non-greasy, it contains anti-inflammatory ingredients such as tea tree oil and terpinen-4-ol.
It retails for RM117. A discount is offered at the time of writing. Tap on the link to see updated price.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Among one of Shopee’s bestselling face ampoules with 17.8k units sold at time of writing, this has a whopping 5 out of 5 stars, which is impressive.
Reviewers note less breakouts after using it, thanks to the soothing centella asiatica extract being the key ingredient in its formula.
It retails for RM49. A discount is offered at the time of writing. Tap on the link to see updated price.
Featured image credit: Karolina Grabowska & hyewon2.
