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Serums/ampoules are highly concentrated liquids designed to address specific skin concerns like brightening, acne, pigmentation, wrinkles. Applied after toning, exfoliating and using an essence, they provide targeted nourishment to ensure healthy and balanced skin.
A serum is a treatment product designed to deliver high concentrations of active ingredients deep into your skin. Unlike moisturisers (which mainly hydrate and seal) or toners (which prep), serums target a specific concern.
The most common serum types and what they do:
Apply 3 to 5 drops after essence and before moisturiser. You can layer multiple serums in the same routine, applying the most water-based first and the thickest last.
Cult favourites in our community: Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum, ANUA Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Dark Spot Correcting Serum, and SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Hydra Serum.
An ampoule is a more concentrated version of a serum, often called a 'booster' or 'shot' in K-beauty. Ampoules contain higher percentages of active ingredients than serums, making them more potent.
The texture varies (some are watery and lightweight, others are thicker and more emollient), but the principle is the same: small amount, high impact. Think of an ampoule as the treatment you reach for when your skin needs targeted intervention.
Apply ampoule after essence and before serum (or instead of serum if you're using a strong ampoule). 2 to 3 drops are usually enough. Press into damp skin and let absorb before continuing.
Because of the higher concentrations, some ampoules are only meant for periodic use (a course of 1 to 2 weeks, then a break). Always check the product label.
Cult favourites in our community: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule, Beauty of Joseon Calming Serum (a soothing ampoule-strength formula), and ANUA Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Ampoule.
You should use a serum or an ampoule morning and evening after cleansing, toning, and applying an essence, but before moisturising. If using both an ampoule and a serum, apply the more potent ampoule first and the serum second.
Vitamin C is one of the most studied ingredients in skincare and one of the most effective for multiple concerns at once. A vitamin C serum delivers concentrated doses of the ingredient directly to your skin.
What vitamin C actually does:
Apply in the morning, after toner and before SPF. Start with a lower percentage (5 to 10%) if your skin is sensitive, and work up. Pure L-ascorbic acid is the most potent form but also the most unstable. Korean brands often use stable derivatives like ascorbyl glucoside, which are gentler and work over a longer time.
Cult favourites in our community: Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum (propolis + niacinamide + vitamin C derivative), SKIN1004 Vit-C Brightening Serum, and Numbuzin No.5 Vitamin Niacinamide Concentrated Serum.
Yes, most ampoules are safe for daily use. Ampoules are essentially concentrated serums with higher levels of active ingredients, so think of them as the heavy lifters of your routine.
That said, not every ampoule is right for every day. If you're using a strong active like a retinol ampoule, a high-percentage vitamin C, or an acid-based brightening ampoule, you may only need it 2 to 4 times a week to avoid irritation. Hydrating ampoules (such as snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, or centella) are usually fine to use morning and evening.
Always check the product label for usage guidance, patch-test new ampoules behind your ear or on your jawline first, and let your skin tell you. If you see redness, dryness, or sensitivity, reduce frequency.
