In the world of skin care, the saying “good things come in small packages” definitely applies, and that goes double for ampoules. These tiny glass vials filled with ultra concentrated skin treatments are buzzing in the beauty world right now. Allure Magazine even named ampoules one of the biggest skin care trends of 2020.

What are ampoules?

They’re not a product, per se but rather a delivery system for a product—typically serums, peels or other potent treatments. Because ampoules contain just enough product for one or two uses safely sealed inside a glass vial, their potency degrades less often. “Because ampoules protect the product inside from being exposed to air, active ingredients such as vitamin C won’t oxidize and lose their efficiency,” says board-certified dermatologist and LovelySkin CEO Dr. Joel Schlessinger Some ampoules are singular treatments used daily or weekly while others are part of a multi-ampoule series meant to be used in concert. The packaging serves as portion control, so you know exactly how much to use in each application. This prevents you from using too much in one application, which is a waste of product at best and at worst could damage your skin. Can you use ampoules daily? Most ampoules aren’t intended to be used indefinitely but rather to make a guest appearance in your routine to give your skin a much-needed boost. However, the answer depends on the specific product, so take a look at some of our favorites!

Vichy LiftActiv Peptide-C Anti-Aging Ampoules

These peptide-packed ampoules are all about anti-aging. Vitamin C, in the form of ascorbic acid, protects against free radical damage, fades discoloration and smooths crow’s feet and forehead lines. Hyaluronic acid and Vichy mineralizing water also support the skin’s natural moisture barrier. If you want to know how these ampoules have worked for other customers, you can take a look at these Vichy vitamin C ampoule reviews.

Tips: To open, cover the top of the ampoule with a tissue or washcloth, hold the top between your thumb and forefinger and snap it along the guideline. Each ampoule is good for two daily applications, one in the morning and one in the evening. After your a.m. application, you can seal the ampoule with the provided cap and reserve the rest for your p.m. application.

Biopelle Tensage Intensive Serum 40

These ampoules accelerate the skin’s healing process after procedures such as microneedling, resurfacing or laser treatments. Powered by the secretion of Cryptomphalus Aspersa (yes, snails!), the patented growth factor blend inside these ampoules improves texture and minimizes fine lines.

Tips: Hold the ampoule upright with its protective sleeve in place and gently crush the top between your thumb and forefinger. Use the enclosed swab to sweep the serum all over your face and neck. Because retinol isn’t recommended after cosmetic procedures, this product should replace your nightly retinol treatment while your skin is on the mend.

BABOR Collagen Concentrate Ampoules

BABOR has an extensive line of ampoules with more than 25 options ranging from pollution protection to stress control. These ampoules contain tri-peptides, which provide a plumping effect by boosting skin’s production of collagen. They also feature exfoliating lactic acid, moisturizing niacinamide and calming aloe. The overall result is a more smooth, youthful complexion without irritation.

Tips: To tap into this once-daily treatment, just use the ampoule opener provided in the package, or wrap a washcloth or tissue around the neck of the ampoule and snap it open along the colored line. Then pour the concentrate into your palm and smooth over your face and neck using your fingers.

Natura Bisse Diamond Instant Glow

Looking for the next best thing to an in-spa treatment? This trio of ampoules is billed as a “mini-lift” and is meant to be applied in the morning after cleansing and toning skin. The first ampoule, Peel, exfoliates with alpha hydroxy acids. The second ampoule, Radiance, brightens the skin with niacinamide and vitamin C. The last ampoule, Lift, smooths the skin with soy and collagen.

Tips: First, open the Peel ampoule by covering the ampoule with a tissue and snapping off the top. Pour the liquid into your palm, apply to your face and leave on for eight minutes before rinsing with water. Next, open the Radiance ampoule and apply the treatment to the face and neck, smoothing with your fingers until fully absorbed. Then, open the Lift ampoule and use gentle pressure with your fingers to smooth on the product, finishing with gentle pats. Let your face dry completely before applying your sunscreen or makeup for the day.

Sothys Detox Energie Energizing Radiance Ampoules

Use this treatment in the morning to provide a smooth canvas for makeup as well as powerful skin protection throughout the day. Ginseng root energizes the skin by giving intracellular energy a boost while elderberry extract protects against pollution and other environmental irritants.

Tips: Open the ampoule by covering it with a washcloth or tissue before gently snapping off the top. After cleansing and applying your morning face cream, pour the contents into the palm of your hand and either apply before makeup or blend into your foundation.

Kerstin Florian Rejuvenating Pure Vitamin C Ampoule Series

This intensive, four-week treatment harnesses the brightening power of vitamin C to reduce dark spots and smooth wrinkles. It also contains hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into the skin for a plumping effect.

Tips: Use the heel of your hand to press down on the cap of the ampoule, which will release powder down into the liquid below. Shake well before removing the cap and twisting on the provided dispenser top. Dispense about one quarter of the ampoule’s contents into your hand and apply to your face and neck every other evening after cleansing.

What other cutting-edge skin care trends would you like Dr. Schlessinger and the LovelySkin experts to weigh in on? Let us know in the comments below!