In preparing for my Polyphenols in Propolis Ampoule review, I finally learned what an ampoule is and how to incorporate it into my skin care routine, allowing me to tick off another box on my Korean skin care bucket list.
While I’ve used a ton of serums to date, ampoules are something that have always mystified me.
Are ampoules just fancy serums?
Do I need to use an ampoule in my routine?
In this post I try to answer some of these questions while sharing my experience using the Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule By Wishtrend.
*post contains affiliate links – product was gifted for review by Wishtrend*
What Is An Ampoule?
Ampoules are most commonly used in Korean skin care routines, but have been gaining ground here in North America as K-beauty have been making their way over. An ampoule is a supercharged serum that contains higher concentrations of active ingredients to target specific skin care concerns.
Given their higher potency, ampoules are intended to be used for a period of time, or as needed to resolve skin care issues as they arise – like that massive breakout you get come period time. Like serums, ampoules usually come in bottles with a pipette dispenser.
How To Use Ampoules In Your Skin Care Routine
Ampoules can easily be added into your skin care routine – no stress required.
If you refer to the traditional Korean skin care routine, an ampoule would be considered a “treatment” and would be used after cleansing, exfoliating, toning and applying an essence. However, you can also insert your ampoule into your routine based on its viscosity and thickness in comparison to your other skin care products.
As a rule of thumb, thinner, lighter, oil-free skin care formulas are usually applied before thicker, heavier oil-based formulas. Based on this skin care principle, you may choose to apply your ampoule before your essence or your toner based on the ampoule’s texture.
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What’s In The Polyphenols in Propolis By Wishtrend?
The Polyphenols in Propolis Ampoule contains Houttuynia Cordata Extract, which is known to soothe blemishes, reduce inflammation and strengthen sensitive skin, while the Propolis content is a powerful anti-oxidant that fights free radical damage to skin.
Polyphenols in Propolis also contains glycerin to moisturize, sodium hyaluronate to help retain moisture and Witch Hazel, which is a natural astringent to minimize pores.
Polyphenols in Propolis is made for use on all skin types and is cruelty free.
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How I This Ampoule + My Thoughts
I like to apply this ampoule during the traditional “treatment” phase of the Korean skin care routine, so I cleanse, exfoliate, add my essence and then add the Polyphenols in Propolis ampoule. I’ll then finish up with an optional serum, along with eye cream, moisturizer and a light facial oil (yes, my skin care routine’s quite extra, I know…).
If you’re interested, all the products I use in my night time skin care routine, in order of application, are:
-Cosrx low pH Good Morning Cleanser with my NowMi facial cleansing brush
-Ole Henriksen Glow2Oh Dark Spot Toner or Lotion P50T or The Ordinary Glycolic Acid Toner
–Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence (I don’t have a hydrating toner at the moment!)
-my retinol of choice (I have several to choose from)
-Hadalabo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
-Polyphenols in Propolis 15% Ampoule
-Mizon Snail Eye Repair Cream or Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair eye cream
–Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb Moisturizer
–Sunday Riley U.F.O. Facial Oil
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Texture of The Polyphenols in Propolis Ampoule
The Polyphenols in Propolis Ampoule has a thin, runny consistency that is fragrance free. I normally warm 2-3 drops of it in my hands and it applies easily over my face and neck without any greasiness or heaviness.
I only use this ampoule at night, so I can’t attest to whether it works well under makeup. However, I don’t think it would cause any issues, given how light the formula is.
My results? I love the hydration I get from this ampoule! My skin looks more plump and rested come morning and I feel like my skin has also gotten smoother since I started using it a month ago.
As with most anti-oxidant skin care products, it will probably take me a couple more months to really see all the benefits of this ampoule, so I look forward to more improvements to come (fingers crossed!). Note: I don’t suffer from blemishes or acne, so unfortunately I can’t make any claims on this ampoule’s pimple-fighting abilities.