Korean beauty has set such high standards when it comes to natural beauty. Unfortunately, it also comes with various terms and kinds of products that can make anyone confused. Understanding Korean skincare is not as complicated as it should be. But some companies are playing with different terms to advertise their products, making everything challenging to understand.
Essences, ampoules, and serums are often used interchangeably by most women. If you are one of them, don’t worry, as they lie on thin lines between each other. Here, we will help you understand the difference between these three most confusing products of all time. Let’s get into it!
Essences
Essences have been playing a massive part in any Korean regimen. What was once the secret in achieving dewy, glowing skin has become one of the hottest skincare products even in the West. Essences are more lightweight than serums and ampoules, but it contains various extracts and active ingredients compared to toners. It can penetrate deeper to provide intense moisture and hydration to the skin, which is an excellent way to achieve radiant skin. It also helps the following products to be absorbed by the skin better.
Many cosmetic companies, including COSRX, could infuse different benefits in essences such as anti-aging, brightening, and soothing benefits with the advanced technology. Like Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, this essence provides excellent moisture to the skin and helps with skin damage. It contains 96% snail mucin concentrate to give the maximum anti-aging and moisturizing benefits. Note that essences are safe for everyday use, just like your usual toner.
Serums
Serums have been around for years but only rose to the spotlight when skincare routines became a trend. This skincare product was designed to target different skin issues like pigmentation, aging, or acne breakouts. However, even cleansers and moisturizers are already infused with ingredients to help with common skin issues. The only difference is serums can do it better than those products. In comparison, serums are thicker than essences, and it contains a higher concentration of active ingredients.
As Koreans love layering products, serums always go after essences because of their heavier texture. An excellent example of a high-quality serum would be COSRX AC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum. This serum focuses on improving the appearance of blemishes and dark spots by providing triple skin aftercare. The good thing about serums is you only need a drop or two for every use, as every drop contains highly concentrated ingredients. Most serums are safe for daily use.
Ampoules
Ampoules are considered the most potent skincare product you can use. With that, it is essentially used occasionally when your skin needs boosting. In comparison to serums, their purpose is almost the same; to combat different skin issues. However, you should never incorporate ampoules in your daily skincare routines because this product contains a high potency, so contact with the external environment should be avoided to preserve the highest efficacy of the product.
Nowadays, some ampoules can be used for basic care. Still, most of them are designed for special targeted care for maximum effectiveness. A great example of an ampoule intended to do both is COSRX Centella Auqa Soothing Ampoule. It is specially designed for people with acne-prone and sensitive skin types, and it is more lightweight than most ampoules in the market. It hydrates, moisturizes, and soothes the skin and can be an effective calming product when your skin is breaking out.
How do I know which product to use?
Nowadays, these products are almost identical to each other, as these names are slowly becoming advertising terms. However, many beauty brands still stick to formulating these products according to their differences, potencies, and purposes. If you are looking for an excellent and easy-to-use product for your daily skincare routine, essences are definitely for you. But, if your skin needs an intense pick-me-up boost, you might want to go for serums or ampoules.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the difference between ampoules, serums, and essences is vital in providing your skin the best nourishment it needs. Be aware of beauty brands using misleading terms and descriptions to sell their products to avoid wasting your money. Know the ingredients and read reviews to avoid confusion and false advertisements.
