The Anatomy of Skincare: Serums, Essences, and Ampoules

Whether it's ten steps or three, you probably already have a skincare routine. Maybe you've carefully formulated it over the years, or you've only just started to find which products work best for you. Whichever it is, do we really know what we're putting on our skin, and the purpose of each step in our routines? 

Welcome to The Anatomy of Skincare, where we break down each layer of a typical skincare routine, so that you can craft the perfect routine for you, thoughtfully and with intention.

The Basics of Serums, Essences, and Ampoules

In the context of skincare, serums, essences, and ampoules are all products with concentrated formulas to target specific skin concerns. Although they are technically different, they are often used interchangeably, as their similarities can cause confusion for many consumers.

What is a serum?
A serum is typically a slightly viscous product that contains concentrated amounts of active ingredients. Due to the high concentrations of active ingredients, they are more likely to penetrate deeper into the skin and provide faster results. They are also lighter than creams and moisturizers, allowing them to deliver these active ingredients more quickly [1]. Recent advancements have revolutionized facial serums, enhancing their penetration and delivery of active ingredients, bringing about the use of novel ingredients, and improving their efficacy [2].

What is an essence?
An essence is a water-based product that also contains a high concentration of active ingredients, mainly used to boost hydration of the skin. It was actually introduced by the well-known brand Shiseido in 1897. Essences help provide a hydrating layer to lock in moisture and protect the skin, but also to prepare the skin to better absorb any following products [3]. 

This might make you think — isn't that just like a toner?
Yes, in many ways, essences are similar to toners, and in the past, many Asian beauty routines used them interchangeably. However, the difference is that the main role of a toner is to provide another step of thorough cleansing, while essences aim to deliver active ingredients for hydration, balance, and restoration. Although many toners nowadays contain ingredients that provide similar results, their main purpose still differs than that of an essence's [3].

What is an ampoule?
Ampoules are probably the least heard of among these three. The technical definition of an ampoule is a small glass vessel or vial that is used to hold solution [4], either for injection or for medication. However, when it comes to skincare, ampoules are known to be highly concentrated formulas that provide treatments to address a specific skin concern. They are very similar to serums, but are often more potent and tend to come in single-use packages, reserved for when your skin is in urgent need of a boost or when you need to address a skin concern quickly. Because they are more potent, they may provide visible results faster than serums [5].

Do I need to use all three of these?
The short answer is no, you don't. But you definitely can incorporate all three products into your routine!

In general, an essence may be good to add if your skin tends to be more dry and sensitive, for that extra layer of hydration. A serum is a good addition to any routine, and you can pick and choose one that best suits your skin's needs, or whatever concern you would like to address. Serums are best for every day use. Ampoules aren't necessary to use every day, but may be good to have on hand for when your skin needs a more powerful boost! Be cautious with ampoules however, as since they have a higher concentration of active ingredients, it can cause irritation to the skin if used too frequently.

Finding Your Perfect Product

There are so many options when it comes to serums, essences, and ampoules. Even with serums alone, there are so many products out there targeting a multitude of skin concerns. Here are some of our suggestions for products that we love and trust. Just pick the one that best addresses your needs!

We recommend: MiMC Beauty Bio Fighter Pure Fruity & Beauty Bio Fighter Princess Care
Why we love it: Crafted from Onsen Sui, the nutrient-rich hot spring waters natural to Japan, these two essences provide so much nourishment for the skin. The Pure Fruity essence first works to hydrate the skin for a radiant glow, and then the Princess Care works to lock in all the moisture and nutrients for soft, plump, and protected skin. The perfect combination of natural ingredients to keep your skin happy and healthy.

We recommend: Lavido Replenishing Facial Serum
Why we love it: Formulated with 18 plant extracts and oils, this serum helps to restore moisture to the skin while smoothing the complexion. It visibly plumps the skin, stimulating collagen production and significantly improving skin hydration, firmness, and elasticity.

We recommend: Ere Perez Quandong Green Booster Serum
Why we love it: Just like how green juice packs a ton of nutrients for your body, this Green Booster Serum is formulated with a blend of superfood ingredients to support a healthy, glowing complexion. It contains Vitamin C, which is known to help with brightening, Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, and Lactic Acid, a powerful AHA that promotes skin renewal and collagen production. Combined with its other ingredients, it brings dull skin back to life.

We recommend: MiMC Organic Omega Charge
Why we love it: These tiny capsules are cute but powerful. This ampoule is packed with high concentrations of organic ingredients, especially in Omega 3 and 6. All the fruits and seeds are cold-pressed, meaning there is no heat added, preserving the integrity of the active ingredients and nutrients to the highest degree. Perfect to use the night before an important event, or when your skin needs some extra love. We've seen results overnight using this product!

To summarize, serums, essences, and ampoules are all a great way to give your skin a concentrated dose of ingredients to treat and address specific skin concerns. It's not necessary to use all three of these products, but each one provides added benefits, so feel free to pick and choose based on what you feel your skin needs. There is no need to follow anyone else's routine; build one that works for you!

Still have questions or want to learn more? Feel free to reach out to us — we're always here to help!