Babor vs Lavera — side by side, no bias.
Our pick
Hydra Plus Ampoule Concentrates
8.5/10 · Babor
| Hydra Plus Ampoule Concentrates | Pure Beauty Liquid Refiner | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Babor | Lavera |
| Category | essence | essence |
| Editor Rating | 8.5/10 ★ | 8.1/10 |
| Category | essence | essence |
| Texture | Watery liquid in individual glass ampoules | Lightweight liquid treatment |
| Finish | Instantly plumped, dewy, fresh | Refined, balanced, fresh |
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| Verdict | BABOR invented the skincare ampoule in 1956 — single-dose, hermetically sealed, freshly opened each morning. The Hydra Plus is the hydration-focused variant in their Ampoule Concentrates range, and it remains one of the most elegant hydration delivery systems in European skincare. Each ampoule contains a concentrated dose of sodium hyaluronate and saccharide isomerate (a plant-derived sugar that binds to keratin for 72-hour moisture retention). Beta vulgaris (beetroot) root extract adds natural moisturising factor support. Fructooligosaccharides feed the skin microbiome — a prebiotic approach to barrier health that predates the current trend by decades. The ritual matters: snap the ampoule, apply with fingertips, follow with moisturiser. It's a 30-second luxury that transforms a boring morning routine into something that feels professional. Seven ampoules per box, one per day — a week-long hydration cure. | Lavera's pore-refining essence — and the first essence in the de-beauty lineup. Azelaic acid (a dicarboxylic acid that targets both acne and hyperpigmentation without increasing photosensitivity) combined with witch hazel, aloe vera, peppermint, hyssop, and barberry root in a NATRUE-certified natural formula. Azelaic acid is the dermatologist's quiet favorite: it inhibits tyrosinase (brightening), kills P. acnes bacteria (anti-acne), and normalizes keratinization (anti-comedonal) — and unlike AHA/BHA, it doesn't increase sun sensitivity. At $12 for 100ml, this is the cheapest azelaic acid product in the German market. Vegan Society approved. Apply after cleansing, before serum. |
