How to open ampoules - because even our beauty editors weren't sure

Even if you have never used ampoule before, most likely, you have seen them - or at least heard about them - in the world of beauty. These small, individually wrapped, disposable skin care products contain a powerful dose skin care actives such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and so on. They originated in Korean beauty but quickly spread throughout the United States. Now even some of our favorite brands are jumping in trend and launch your own. But the question remains: how do you open the ampoules? 

This seemingly simple task baffles even experienced beauty editors (although it was in our office). Some ampoules are made of plastic and others are made of glass, but either way, they can literally be cracked open. Luckily we had Erin Gilbert, MD certified dermatologist, neuroscientist and Vichy consultant dermatologist to help us. 

How to open ampoules 

“Because ampoules are typically made of glass, it is important to become familiar with the anatomy of ampoules and the instructions for opening them,” explains Dr. Gilbert. "The neck of the ampoule has a perforated line where it will open when pressure is applied." But not so fast - there is a key step you must take before pressing and trying to open the ampoule. “We recommend holding the ampoule upright at first and shaking it to ensure that all of the product enters the bottom half.”

Once the product has settled to the bottom of the ampoule (you don't want to lose a drop!), it's time to open it.  

“Then you wrap the tissue around the neck of the ampoule so that your thumbs point outward at the perforation line,” explains Dr. Gilbert. “When you press lightly outward, the vial will open with a popping sound. It's very enjoyable and exciting!" The sound you hear when it finally opens is due to the vacuum seal - the same seal that is responsible for keeping the ingredients in the ampoule at maximum potency. 

Can I cut myself when opening the ampoule?

Although the process of opening ampoules is simple, it does require some practice. “While they are very safe to use, it is important to use a wipe, at least in the beginning, when you are learning how to open the ampoule,” says Dr. Gilbert. "The edges of the glass are sharp, and hypothetically, this could lead to a small cut." 

How to save the ampoule for later use

Some ampoules such as Vichy LiftActiv Peptide-C Ampoule Serum, contain the morning and evening amounts of the formula, which means you'll want to save it after you open it for later. “The Vichy vial applicator has its own cap that can be placed over the bottle and left to use until evening,” explains Dr. Gilbert. "The ingredients in each vial are stable and peak for up to 48 hours, so if you want to use a single product at night and use the rest of the bottle in the morning, that's fine too." We recommend combining Vitamin C Ampoules in the morning with Retinol at night for the perfect anti-aging duo.

How to dispose of ampoules

The recommended method for disposal of ampoules varies from product to product. For example, all components of Vichy ampoules are recyclable, “from the ampoules themselves to the plastic applicator and the box they come in,” says Dr. Gilbert. If you are using a different brand, check the label for specific disposal instructions. 

How are ampoules different from regular face serums?

If you're still unsure why you should include an ampoule in your daily skincare routine, Dr. Gilbert encourages you to give this product a try. “The format of the ampoules—airtight and UV-protected thanks to amber glass—allows the formula to be simple and pure, without a lot of preservatives and unwanted chemicals,” she says. In addition, the ampoules are highly concentrated and, unlike many serums that come in the form of a pipette or pump, are vacuum-packed to protect against degradation by air and light. “You get a new dose every time you open one,” says Dr. Gilbert.