Essence, Serum, Ampoule: What’s the Difference?

Have you ever wondered what the differences are between an essence, a serum, and an ampoule? We all know that these are components of the 10-step Korean skincare regimen, but how do they differ from one another? What skin magic do these products do that has Koreans and Hollywood stars gushing about them?

Essence, serum, and ampoule may appear as ritzy skincare products for many, but after reading this article, you will surely start using them.

Essence

With a consistency similar to water, essences can provide needed hydration in a gentle and refreshing way. It has ingredients that hydrate, protect, and improve the overall health of the skin. An essence also prepares the skin for better absorption of other beauty products, like serums or moisturizers.

Essences can aid in the rehydration of skin cells, rebalancing of the skin’s pH, and softening and smoothing of the epidermis. This liquid typically contains natural ingredients that seldomly have negative effects on the skin.

Serum

A face serum is an excellent step after cleansing and before moisturizing because it is made to nourish, protect, and hydrate your skin. A face serum is applied first after cleansing because it contains a high content of active ingredients — in a light formulation — that can penetrate the skin deeply. But if you are using an essence, a serum is recommended to be applied after the latter.

Compared to essences, serums tend to be more potent. According to Dr. Tsippora Shainhouse, a dermatologist from Beverly Hills, California, via Healthline, “Serums are thin-viscosity topical products that contain concentrated amounts of active ingredients.”

This skincare product can treat skin conditions like acne, fine lines, dullness, and discoloration. There are various types of face serums that vary based on the ingredients they contain. Definitely, there is a serum appropriate for the kind of problem you want to address.

There are different categories of face serums: anti-aging, hydrating, and acne-prone, to name a few.

Ampoule

An ampoule is a powerful skincare item that gives serious skin benefits. They are packaged in tiny, glass bottles with droppers to deliver the ideal dosage for each use. Ampoules are applied after your toner and/or essence, and before you lather your moisturizer.

Stronger than serums, ampoules have a considerably high concentration of a particular active ingredient that can address a specific skin concern. As a matter of fact, face serums and ampoules are relatively similar. Their potency is the primary difference.

Typically, essence and serum are made to be suitable for daily use. However, ampoules are supplemental treatments. It can address everything from dryness to fine lines to discoloration.

For a boost of hydration, look for an ampoule with hyaluronic acid. On the other hand, an ampoule containing a high level of vitamin C can help fade hyperpigmentation. Moreover, an ampoule formulated with Centella Asiatica can soothe an irritated skin barrier. There’s a lot more, and for sure, there is an ampoule that can help you if you have a particular skin problem.

To sum it up

It’s not totally necessary to use an essence, a serum, and an ampoule at the same time. The roles they play in your routine are somehow similar. All of them deliver active ingredients to the skin. It just depends on your personal preference. Importantly, you must consider how your skin is likely to respond to each formula.