Story | Leslie Yip
Beauty potions in tiny single-dose glass vials seem to be popping up out of nowhere lately. Beauty bloggers show them off on Instagram, while celebrities like Taiwanese artiste Meifan Chen, who is billed as “Taiwan’s hottest ‘auntie’”, swears by the Bright Repair Concentrate developed by beauty guru Robin Niu Er. They certainly look different from the usual bottles and jars, but are they worth the hype?
Jing Cheng Super Diamond Bright Repairing Concentrate, 14×1.5ml | $109
According to some skincare experts, they are. Dr. Marion Nielsen, Vichy’s international scientific director and doctor in
pharmacy, says this particular format has multiple advantages.
Vichy Liftactiv Peptide-C Anti-Aging Ampoules Face Serum with Brightening Pure Vitamin C And Hyaluronic Acid, 10×1.5ml | $42.95
“Their hermetic and photo-protective pack preserves the actives against UV, heat and oxidation,” she says. “This allows our labs to create minimalist formula without preservatives. This conditioning also gives the possibility to integrate actives into high concentrations and to deliver all their power when applying, just after opening.”
The possibility of offering higher concentration of active ingredients and precise dosage makes ampoules a good format for intensive booster treatments. These programs allow you to choose a specific ampoule to address your skin
concerns at a particular moment, and could range from a week to a month.
111Skin by Dr. Yannis Alexandrides recently launched five targeted one-week systems to address specific concerns, such as clarity and hydration—the secret to reaping maximum benefit.
111 Skin The Radiance Concentrate, 7x2ml | $240
“Use it immediately upon opening,” says Machael Varicchio, education director at Beautymark Solutions. “The reason for the glass vials is to protect the clinical-grade formulations from exposure to oxygen.”
Dr. Barbara Sturm Night Ampoules, 7x2ml | US$150
Ampoules can also be incorporated into your regular home-care regime. Peggy Fu, Canadian vice-president of Jean D’Arcel, a three-time winner of Germany’s Best Facial Care and Cosmetics award, says many customers stock up on ampoules for their pre-Christmas advent calendar.
Jean d’Arcel Hydratante Intense Moisture, 7x2ml | $74
However, instead of using one a day leading up to Christmas, they use one or two ampoules each week throughout the year as regular treats for their skin. Those looking to level up their home-care regime can also check out the clean and sustainable Hydratante Intense Moisture.
