The Ordinary “Buffet” Review

The “Buffet” from The Ordinary’s skincare line is consistently one of their best sellers, and for good reason. This multi-purpose anti-aging peptide serum is easy to use, affordable, and effective. Read on for an in-depth review of “Buffet” as well as key product benefits and prices.

What is “Buffet”

“Buffet” is described as a “multi-technology peptide serum” that targets signs of aging. It’s a combination of multiple peptide complexes, amino acids, and hyaluronic acids to produce one all-around crowd pleaser.

Who should use “Buffet”

Generally speaking, anyone who wants to build an anti-aging routine specifically should pick up “Buffet.” It’s never too early to think about anti-aging. I am a big proponent of prevention when it comes to lines and wrinkles.

It’s harder and more expensive to reverse signs of aging and much easier to prevent aging by prioritizing hydration and always wearing sunscreen.

“Buffet” Product Profile

Key Ingredients: Matrixyl™ 3000 peptide complex (with palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7), Matrixyl™ synthe’6™ peptide complex (with palmitoyl tripeptide-38), SYN™-AKE peptide complex (with dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate), Relistase peptide complex (with acetylarginyltryptophyl diphenylglycine), ARGIRELOX™ peptide complex (with acetyl hexapeptide-8, pentapeptide-18), Probiotic complex (with lactococcus lactis lysate), in a base of 11 skin-friendly amino acids and multiple hyaluronic acid complexes. 

Benefits: Anti-aging, hydration support

Sizes: 30ml and 60ml

Price: $14.80 (30ml) and $28.10 (60ml)

Helpful Note: Deciem, parent company of The Ordinary, also makes a skincare line called Hylamide. A more technologically advanced serum is available under Hylamide called SubQ Skin for a slightly higher price ($22) than “Buffet” that is worth checking out.

How do you use “Buffet”

The official directions from The Ordinary’s website:

Apply to the entire face in the AM and PM after cleaning. If irritation occurs, cease use and consult a physician. Use only as directed on unbroken skin. Patch testing prior to use is advised. Refer to our in-depth guide to patch testing. Keep out of reach of children.

Related: I wrote a very in-depth blog post about how to build an effective anti-aging routine here. It specifically mentions how to add “Buffet” into your routine. Specifically, along with other The Ordinary products such as retinoids and hydrators. (For example: 100% Plant Derived Squalene, AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, and Hyaluronic Acid)

I recommend you checking out that post if you’re interested in building a routine with these products.

How to use “Buffet” with other The Ordinary products

Can I use “Buffet” with The Ordinary Retinoids?

Yes! You can use “Buffet” in the evening after cleansing and toning before using Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalene for example. Refer to this post for more in depth instructions.

Can I use “Buffet” with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?

Yes, I explained in this post how niacinamide is another all-around crowd pleasing ingredient that all skin types can use to target a wide variety of skin concerns from dullness to pimples. One of the reasons it’s so popular is because it plays nice with other ingredients and products, such as a peptide serum like “Buffet.”

Use Niacinamide before “Buffet” in your AM or PM routine.

Can I use “Buffet” with acids and Vitamin C?

It is recommended not to use “Buffet” with the following acids and Vitamin C products: Direct acids, LAA (L-Ascorbic Acid) and ELAA (Ethylated Ascorbic Acid).

In addition, we would recommend avoiding the use of products containing copper peptides in the same routine as strong antioxidants as well as direct acids/LAA/ELAA.

What is the difference between “Buffet” and “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1%?

Price: “Buffet” is half the price of “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1%

pH level: “Buffet” ist 4.5-5.5 whereas “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% is 6.0-7.0

Aesthetics: “Buffet” is clear liquid serum, “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% has a blue tint. “Buffet” is not an oil-free formula, whereas “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% is oil-free.

The Ordinary claims that the addition of Pure Copper Peptides further encourages collagen production, but I think jury is out on this. Personally I think regular “Buffet” suffices and does the job.

Lastly, “Buffet” comes in 2 sizes (30ml and 60ml), whereas “Buffet” + Copper Peptides 1% only comes in 30ml size.

The Ordinary “Buffet” Review

As of the time of this review (May 2020) “Buffet” has 268 reviews on The Ordinary’s website and averages 8/10 stars.

Favorable reviews highlight its efficacy backed by science and affordable price point. Positive reviews included people with sensitive skin, dry skin, and mature skin.

I specifically looked into the negatives as well. A few reviews mentioned experiencing reactions such as a rash and redness, which is why it’s so important to do a patch test and look over the ingredient list to see if you may be allergic to any of the key ingredients.

Below are my personal ratings after using “Buffet” – I have sensitive, reactive skin so I’m careful when adding new serums to my routine.

For reference and comparison purposes, my usual go-to serum is Kate Somerville’s Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum which is quite a bit more expensive at $98 for 30ml compared to “Buffet” which is $14.80 for 30ml.

Product Aesthetics

No noticeable scent, and this is a clear liquid. There is a slight tackiness on the skin after application, but nothing that’s unexpected of a serum.

The slightly more viscous serum texture takes a little bit of time to fully absorb, so I tend to use it more during the nighttime.

Product Efficacy

Note: I’m using this product as anti-aging preventative measure, not actively trying to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

“Buffet” does a great job keeping my skin hydrated and soft to the touch. I did not experience any negative reactions and the formula layered nicely with my other products (meaning no pilling or strange reaction).

After 2 weeks of using “Buffet” I’m definitely thinking I could switch over to “Buffet” as my regular full time serum to replace Kate Somerville, since KS is more than 6x more expensive!

Value

For the price, you just can’t beat The Ordinary’s buffet. If you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable peptide serum to target anti-aging needs, this is a perfect serum to add before your moisturizer. It’s suitable for all skin types and the only products you shouldn’t mix or layer with are acids and certain Vitamin C formulas.

Where to buy The Ordinary “Buffet”

I recommend picking up The Ordinary products directly from their website for the widest range of available products and sizes.

It’s also available at Sephora or Ulta if you want to add it with your other beauty purchases and earn points.