Moisture Ampoule
Moisture Ampoule
Product Description
Product overview
A minimalist 6-ingredient Korean ampoule from Pyunkang Yul, powered by 90%+ Coptis Japonica Root Extract. This honey-textured hydrating booster calms heat-stressed, oily, and irritation-prone skin while sealing in moisture without grease — developed by the Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital.
Hanbang Heritage
Developed by Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital, drawing on traditional Eastern herbal philosophy.
Texture & feel
SENSORYHanbang Heritage
Developed by Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital, drawing on traditional Eastern herbal philosophy.
Cooling Hydration
Water-based gel transforms upon patting, leaving an instantly cool, refreshed sensation.
Oil-Water Balance
Replenishes moisture without oils, helping regulate sebum on combination and oily skin.
Zero Filler Ingredients
No fragrance, essential oils, alcohol, parabens, silicones, sulfates, or artificial dyes.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Polysorbate 60/80, Polysorbate 20, and Glyceryl Caprylate, which can feed Malassezia yeast and may worsen fungal acne.
Compatible with vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, and AHA/BHA. Acts as a calming buffer between potent actives.
Zero-irritation tested by Korea Dermatology Research Institute. Free from common allergens and harsh additives.
PEG-150 Distearate is generally not recommended on broken or actively oozing skin. Wait until barrier is intact.
Registered with the European CPNP database, which prohibits animal testing.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCoptis Japonica Root Extract ~90%Promising
The hero ingredient — an extract of the Japanese goldthread root, used for centuries in East Asian traditional medicine. It replaces water as the base of this ampoule, delivering hydration alongside calming alkaloids like berberine.
- Source: Berberine, the principal alkaloid in Coptis, has documented anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity in dermatology research (Journal of Ethnopharmacology).
- Source: An International Journal of Cosmetic Science abstract identified Coptis Japonica Root Extract and its active components as having soothing and skin-protective potential.
- Effect: Cools heated skin, calms redness from sun exposure or active ingredient irritation, and adds light hydration.
Polysorbate 60 2–5%Proven
A surfactant and emulsifier derived from sorbitol and stearic acid. It helps stabilize the gel-like consistency and ensures other ingredients distribute evenly.
- CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review): Recognized as safe for cosmetic use at standard concentrations.
- Function: Solubilizer and texture stabilizer — keeps the formula uniform and easy to spread.
PEG-150 Distearate 1–3%Proven
A polyethylene glycol-based viscosity controller and emulsifier. It contributes to the unique adhesive, slightly stretchy honey-like texture this ampoule is known for.
- EWG: Rated low to moderate hazard depending on grade and purity.
- Function: Thickener and surfactant — gives the ampoule its slip and bounce.
Polysorbate 20 1–2%Proven
A milder surfactant/solubilizer that helps blend trace lipid components with the water-based extract base. Common in gentle K-beauty formulations.
- CIR: Considered safe for use in leave-on cosmetics.
- Function: Co-emulsifier and solubilizer that improves spreadability.
1,2-Hexanediol 1–2%Proven
A multi-functional humectant and gentle preservative booster widely used in modern Korean skincare as a paraben-free alternative.
- Source: Demonstrated antimicrobial activity allows reduced reliance on traditional preservatives.
- Function: Adds light hydration while keeping the minimalist formula stable and clean.
Glyceryl Caprylate 0.5–1%Proven
A 100% plant-derived (Ecocert-approved) ingredient that acts as an emollient, co-emulsifier, and antimicrobial — letting the brand keep the ingredient list to just six items.
- Source: Strong antimicrobial activity allows it to partially replace traditional preservatives.
- Function: Locks in moisture by forming a thin, breathable barrier on the skin.
6 ingredients
Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Polysorbate 60, PEG-150 Distearate, Polysorbate 20, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glyceryl Caprylate.
Note: Some retailers list Polysorbate 80 in place of Polysorbate 60 — both versions have circulated due to formula updates. Always verify on the carton at purchase.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPyunkang Yul officially recommends applying this ampoule as thefinal step after moisturizer to seal in hydration. Many users with oily skin alternatively use it as a serum (step 3). Sunscreen always comes last in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense Sparingly
Use the dropper to place 4–5 small dots onto forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin. The honey-like texture goes a long way — start with less.
Warm Between Palms
Rub your palms together to warm the ampoule slightly — this helps it spread evenly without balling up.
Pat, Don't Rub
Gently press and tap into skin in upward motions. Rubbing causes the gel to ball up; patting lets it absorb smoothly.
Layer If Needed
For drier skin or extra hydration, apply a second thin layer after the first absorbs. Two thin layers beat one thick layer.
Use AM & PM
Safe twice daily. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. At night, this can be your final step before bed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or shiny skin that needs water without grease
- You run hot, sweat easily, or live in a humid climate
- Your skin is irritated from actives like retinol, AHA/BHA, or vitamin C
- You prefer minimalist formulas with short ingredient lists
- You're sensitive to fragrance, essential oils, or alcohol
- You want a budget-friendly K-beauty staple in a generous 100ml bottle
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin needing intense hydration
- You're prone to fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You expect dramatic anti-aging or brightening results
- You dislike sticky or "tacky" textures during application
- You want HA, peptides, or other heavily-researched hydrators
- Your skin barrier is broken, oozing, or actively wounded
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESTop use case. Water-based, oil-free, cooling — regulates sebum without adding shine.
Hydrates dry zones without overloading the T-zone. The brand's recommended pick for combo skin.
Provides surface hydration but lacks occlusives. Layer over a richer cream or face oil.
Fragrance-free and zero-irritation tested. Patch test if you react to PEGs or polysorbates.
Non-comedogenic and anti-inflammatory — but skip if your "acne" is actually fungal.
Soothing and hydrating, but no peptides or retinoids. Pair with a treatment serum.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Cooling & Calming Sensation
Skin feels instantly refreshed and noticeably cooler. Heat, redness, and tightness from actives or sun exposure subside within minutes.
92% noticedSmoother, Bouncier Skin
Surface hydration improves. Makeup applies more evenly, and skin feels "plumper" by morning when used as a final night step.
78% noticedReduced Oiliness & Shine
Combination and oily skin types report better oil-water balance. Less mid-day shine and fewer sebum-related congestion spots.
65% noticedCalmer, More Resilient Barrier
Sensitivity to environmental triggers decreases. Skin tolerates active ingredients (retinol, AHAs) better when buffered with this ampoule.
58% noticedHealthier Overall Texture
Long-term users report fewer breakouts triggered by stress and heat, and a more even, balanced complexion overall.
52% noticedRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-minimalist 6-ingredient formula
- 90%+ Coptis Japonica delivers a real cooling, calming effect
- Truly fragrance-free and essential-oil free
- Generous 100ml bottle at an accessible price
- Excellent for oily, combination, and heat-stressed skin
- Compatible with strong actives — buffers irritation
- Cruelty-free and EU CPNP-registered
- Zero-irritation tested by Korea Dermatology Research Institute
Criticized
- Sticky, honey-like texture has a learning curve
- Not enough hydration for very dry skin alone
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- Limited peer-reviewed research on the hero extract
- Pipette dispenses very small amounts at a time
- Can pill or ball up if rubbed instead of patted
- No HA, peptides, or "trendy" hydrators included
- Texture can feel odd when layered with rich creams
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Also a calming, 80%+ herbal extract ampoule (Centella Asiatica instead of Coptis). Slightly thinner and better for acne-spot soothing, but less cooling.
Sister product from the same line — slightly heavier, gel-cream texture. Better suited for normal-to-dry skin while sharing the minimalist philosophy.
Green tea + panthenol for calming oily, problematic skin. Lighter, more watery texture and includes hyaluronic acid for added hydration.
Pure hydrator with multiple HA weights. Cheaper but lacks calming herbal extract and cooling effect. Better for plain hydration than soothing irritation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life is 30 months from manufacturing.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bathroom humidity if possible.
Frosted glass bottle with a glass dropper pipette. Hygienic and elegant, but not shatter-proof.
100ml bottle is at the carry-on liquid limit. Consider decanting into a smaller bottle for safety.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this ampoule is generally considered pregnancy and breastfeeding safe. The 6-ingredient formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters — the most commonly avoided ingredients during pregnancy. The hero ingredient, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, is a topical herbal extract used externally and is not associated with pregnancy concerns. As always, consult your OB/GYN or dermatologist before adding any new product to your routine during pregnancy.
No, this ampoule is not fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 60 (or 80 in some batches), Polysorbate 20, and Glyceryl Caprylate — all ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you are prone to small, uniform, itchy bumps that don't respond to traditional acne treatment, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative like a simple HA serum or COSRX Snail Mucin Essence instead.
Yes — this ampoule is one of the best buffer products for layering with strong actives. Its calming Coptis Japonica base helps reduce irritation, redness, and stinging caused by retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply your active first on dry skin (or after toner), wait a few minutes, then layer this ampoule on top to soothe and rehydrate. Many users report being able to tolerate higher concentrations of retinol or acids when paired with this product.
This ampoule is best suited for oily, combination, and heat-stressed skin. Its water-based, oil-free formula and cooling effect make it especially loved by people who get shiny, sweaty, or experience sebum-related congestion. It also works well for sensitive, easily-irritated skin thanks to its fragrance-free, minimalist formula. Very dry skin types may find it too lightweight on its own and should layer it under or with a richer moisturizer.
Cooling and calming effects are immediate — most users feel skin become noticeably less heated within minutes of application. Smoother, plumper texture appears within 1–3 days of consistent use. Better oil-water balance and reduced shine generally take 1–2 weeks, while a more resilient, less reactive complexion develops over 3–4 weeks of twice-daily use. This is a hydrating support product, not an active treatment, so don't expect dramatic transformation results.
Pyunkang Yul officially recommends applying this ampoule as the final step of your routine — after cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer — to lock in hydration. However, many users with oily skin prefer to apply it as a serum (after toner, before moisturizer) to avoid heaviness. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen as the absolute last step. Use AM, PM, or both, depending on your skin's needs.
This ampoule has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. None of its six ingredients are known to clog pores at typical use concentrations. It's actually praised by many oily and acne-prone users for helping calm sebum-related breakouts. The exception is fungal acne — while it won't clog pores in the traditional sense, the polysorbates and glyceryl caprylate can trigger or worsen Malassezia-related bumps if you're prone to that specific condition.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — look for the open-jar symbol with "12M" on the box or bottle. With twice-daily use, a 100ml bottle typically lasts 4–6 months for one person, so you should comfortably finish it before expiration. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The glass dropper helps maintain hygiene by limiting contact with the formula. Do not use if the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably.
Verdict: The Pyunkang Yul Moisture Ampoule is a cult-favorite K-beauty staple for a reason — it delivers exactly what it promises: simple, calming, cooling hydration with just six carefully chosen ingredients. It's especially valuable for oily, combination, and heat-prone skin types, and it's an excellent buffer product when using strong actives. The honey-like texture has a learning curve, and it's not the right pick if you have very dry skin or fungal acne. But for the price, generous size, fragrance-free formula, and proven brand heritage from Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital, this is one of the best minimalist hydrating ampoules you can buy.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Coptis Japonica Extract
Antimicrobial, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 60
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-150 Distearate
Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|