When Lancôme set out to plan its fall launch—its biggest, most luxurious of the year—the marching orders were specific: Formulate a product that repairs skin’s barrier function, is ideal post-procedure, and provides long-lasting hydration. The result: the brand’s first-of-its-kind Korean-inspired bi-ampoule, Lancôme Absolue Repairing Bi-Ampoule ($150).
The two-phase liquid creates an “activated” oil-essence blend when you shake it—a move the R&D team says keeps the final formula, which is similar in texture to a serum, fresher.
In a nod to high-dose products that are popular in South Korea, the ampoule was developed at the Korean Innovation Center, a lab specializing in biomimetic skin-care innovations.
Besides incorporating a high concentration of actives, vitamins and antioxidants, the goal was to be science-meets-prestige, with nourishing rose extracts rounding out the mix.
