Labelling of products can be a little confusing and overwhelming at first. Don’t be discouraged because you’re not alone! It took us some time to truly understand them as well. Serum versus ampoule is one of the most commonly asked confusion in the skincare world. Here, we will spill some tea on their difference (or not so much of a difference)
Ampoules and Serums
They are both products with a potent amount of active ingredients to target specific skin concerns. No matter if you’re dealing with hyperpigmentation, dull skin, acne, fine lines, irritated skin, there are always products that can target these concerns!
Some common differences between a serum and an ampoule
The most common differences between an ampoule and a serum is the consistency. An ampoule is usually more “thicker” in consistency than serums. But this is not an absolute rule. Since this labelling is unregulated, we can’t predict how a brand would like to create their product, name it, or the consistency of the formulation.
Should you have them both an Ampoule and a Serum in one routine?
Not necessarily. You can choose either of them with your favourite consistency and the most suitable active ingredients for your concern.
My tips: An ingredients cheat sheet for some active ingredients you want to look for according to your skin concern;
Skin Concern |
Active Ingredients |
| Hyperpigmentation | Licorice Root Extract, Kojic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Azelaic Acid |
| Dull skin | Glycolic acid, Lactic Acid, Ascorbic Acid |
| Acne | Salicylic Acid (BHA), Retinol, Tea Tree |
| Ageing | Retinol, Bakuchiol, Peptide |
| Irritation | Aloe Vera Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Panthenol |
How to incorporate Ampoules and Serums into your skincare routine
Both ampoules and serums should be applied after your toner or essences but before a moisturizer or cream. If you want to apply both serum and ampoule in one routine, always remember the rule of thumb “from the thinnest to the thickest” consistency. Put the lighter product consistency first, followed by a thicker consistency.
Takeaway: I hope you’ll get a better idea about these two terms after reading this article and how to fit them into your skincare routine. Have you tried any serum or ampoule from our collection? We have them for different skin type or concern. Which one do you like better and found more effective? No matter which one, your skin will love it.
- By Claudia Christin (@funskincare)
MBBS, Ph.D. (Dermatology)
1 comment
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