Ampoules are a unique creation that shook up the skincare world and took it by storm!
But what really is an ampoule, and how do you use it? An ampoule is a liquid that is filled in an inert environment such as amber-colored glass. It contains a power-packed formula full of actives like concentrated Vitamin C and Proteoglycans. The dark color and airtight seal prevent Vitamin C from oxidation, ensuring maximum efficacy and results.
MartiDerm, a Spanish market leader was the first to sow the seed for this authentic skincare revolution in 1989, and create the concept of an 'ampoule'. Not only were they the pioneers, but they revolutionised the market with their innovative and pure formula. Vitamin C helps combat aging, pigmentation, dullness and boosts collagen production. Proteoglycans are small molecules that easily penetrate into the skin and restore epidermal cells, the functions of the skin, its physical properties and physiological appearances as they intensify the metabolism of connective tissues. Together, they make a magical formula with potent, concentrated ingredients that are beneficial for the skin.
Ampoules are not only highly effective but super versatile and can be used in multiple ways, such as
1. Use as a regular serum
The most common purpose of an ampoule is to replace a serum. Before you apply the ampoule to your face, ensure you have cleansed well (or even double cleansed!) to remove any dirt, grime or oil, so it can really seep into your skin. Then, take 2-3 drops on your fingers and gently dab it onto your skin. Keep massaging it all over your face until it gets absorbed completely. Remember, less is more when it comes to ampoules - so 2-3 drops are enough to cover your entire face while effectively allowing it to penetrate into the skin while delivering a concentrated dosage of potent, skin-loving ingredients. We recommend using them twice a day, and always remember - consistency is key, so follow through with this regime every day to see a visible change in your skin texture and complexion.
Cleanser > Toner > Ampoule > Eye Cream > Moisturiser > Sunscreen
2. Apply before a serum or as a ‘super serum’
A concept that may be unknown for some of us, but using ampoules as 'Super Serums' is another interesting way to use them, i.e. before a serum. For those who wish to give their skin luxury facial treatments and intensive nourishment, this can be an additional step that you can incorporate into your skincare regime before you apply your conventional facial serum. This can be done in the case of MartiDerm’s Platinum Night Renew Ampoules, which consists of AHAs and 5% Marine Collagen, making them the perfect choice to complement your usual serum and boost its efficacy.
Cleanser > Toner > Ampoule > Serum > Eye Cream > Moisturiser
3. Boost the power of your moisturiser
A super time-saving trick for all those lazy girls out there, that can go a long way in improving your skincare game. Simply add a few drops of the ampoules to your usual moisturiser. Since ampoules have both anti-aging and hydrating properties, they can help increase the power of moisturiser's formula. Their lightweight and water-based texture ensure that they effortlessly blend into the moisturiser and get absorbed into the skin easily for long-lasting hydration, all day long! This hack works well for those experiencing skin dehydration too, or during the winters when the skin needs that little extra boost of hydration!
4. Add it to your foundation
We have always heard that the secret to good makeup, or rather the 'foundation' for good makeup is good skincare practices. This is something that we strongly believe in, as when your skin looks good from within, it reflects on the outside as well. Mixing a few drops of an ampoule in your foundation can be a great way to ensure that your foundation doesn't get too cakey, dry or peel off your skin over the course of the day. This is a well-kept secret by several makeup artists all over the world, who use ampoules to give a liquid foundation a naturally dewy finish.
5. Set your makeup
Next time when you are setting your makeup, instead of using your usual Setting Spray, you can try using a few drops of the ampoules over your foundation. It can help finish off your makeup application and ensure that it stays in place through the day, and glows naturally from within. The lightweight texture of ampoules makes this super easy and a suitable choice, as all you have to do is gently press it into your skin using your fingertips. Moreover, if you wish to subtly highlight certain areas of your face like the apple of your cheeks, your jawline, your brow bone or cheekbones, simply dab a few drops onto the desired area for a luminescent glow!
6. Use with facial massage tools
Face rollers and gua shas are definitely trending in the skincare world because of their abundant benefits - re-energising the skin, flushing out toxins, draining the lymphatic nodes or simply reducing any signs of puffiness or dullness. Using a few drops of any ampoule before using a massage tool can work wonders for your skin. Apply a few drops of the ampoule on your face, and give yourself a nice, uplifting facial massage. Using gentle, upward motions, stimulate blood flow to the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), enhance circulation and improve skin tone and texture.
7. Under a sheet mask
Sheet masks are usually liquid-based formulas that help deliver nutrient-packed ingredients deeper into the skin. Applying a few drops of an ampoule under a sheet mask can help the mask stay moist on the skin for longer, and make sure that your skin gets a double dosage of super beneficial ingredients! This is because together, they drench your skin in much needed hydration and lock the moisturise in, resulting in smoother, plumper and deeply nourished skin. Doing this before an event or an occasion could be a great idea if you're looking to restore your skin's hydration or instantly brighten your face, as it rejuvenates it and gets rid of any signs of dullness.
8. A skincare ‘recharge program’
A re-charge program is like a bootcamp - but for your skin! If you are looking to shake up your skin routine, and want to supercharge it with skin loving nutrients, add ampoules into your regular skin regime. This can be a process that lasts 2-3 weeks, as it's a great way to get active ingredients into your skin before your usual serum if you’re prepping your skin for an important day. Alternatively, if you would like to repair any kind of damage that has been done through poor lifestyle choices, excessive usage of makeup, etc it can be a quick way to improve the condition of your skin, and really restore it from within.
How to Open Ampoules?
Using an ampoule is a super simple and effortless process.
- Begin by shaking the ampoule lightly because the contents may settle occasionally.
- Support the ampoule on a surface and place the 'Easy Open' device on it.
- Apply light pressure, and gently press it until you hear a 'clicking’ sound.
- Remove the Easy Open device from it and the top of the ampoule.
- Position the dispenser on the ampoule, up to the line and take 2-3 drops on your palm and massage it well all over the face.
- To store the ampoule, place the lid on the dispenser and use it within two days to reap maximum benefits before the Vitamin C oxidises and loses its efficacy.
We recommend doing this in the morning, and/or at night. Now that you know how convenient and versatile ampoules are, you can easily incorporate them into your daily skincare regime, and improve the condition, complexion and texture of your skin!
- By Krisha Jhaveri
