Navigating the skincare world can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re torn between two peptide-packed serums that claim to target similar concerns. Among the most talked-about options are Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster and The Ordinary Buffet. Both aim to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles using peptides, but their formulas, textures, and price points differ significantly.
In this article, we’ll break down the similarities and differences between these two bestselling products to help you decide which one aligns best with your skincare needs and preferences.
What We’ll Cover:
- Overview of Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster and The Ordinary Buffet
- Ingredients comparison
- Texture and skin feel
- Packaging details
- Price differences
- Final decision: Which one should you buy?
About the Brands and Their Peptide Serums
Paula’s Choice and The Ordinary are two reputable skincare brands known for their science-backed, cruelty-free formulas.
- Paula’s Choice, founded by Paula Begoun in 1995, focuses on transparent, research-driven skincare with active ingredients backed by clinical studies.
- The Ordinary, part of DECIEM (The Abnormal Beauty Company), has gained fame for its minimalist, ingredient-focused approach—offering affordable skincare without unnecessary marketing fluff.
Both brands offer peptide serums that promise to firm the skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture. Let’s dive into what sets them apart.
Product Overview
Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster
This serum features six pro-collagen peptides designed to support skin structure at multiple layers. It’s clinically proven to visibly smooth fine lines within 15 minutes and firm the skin in as little as four weeks. Suitable for all skin types, it targets signs of aging including wrinkles, inflammation, and uneven skin tone—even crow’s feet.
The Ordinary Buffet
The Ordinary Buffet is a multi-technology peptide serum formulated to address multiple signs of aging. It combines various peptides, amino acids, and multiple hyaluronic acid complexes to enhance elasticity, firmness, and hydration. Like its name suggests, it’s a buffet of active ingredients in one simple formulation.
Ingredient Breakdown
Both serums are peptide-rich, but their formulas and peptide profiles differ.
Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster
- Contains 56 ingredients
- Includes 8 peptides, such as Acetyl Octapeptide-3, known to reduce muscle contractions and soften wrinkles
- Key hydrating agent: Glycerin (second ingredient)
- Targets inflammation, dehydration, uneven tone, and aging
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and suitable for all skin types
The Ordinary Buffet
- Features 51 ingredients
- Includes peptide complexes like Matrixyl 3000, Copper Tripeptide-1, and Argireline
- Does not include glycerin, but contains Arginine, an amino acid for hydration
- Focuses on reducing fine lines and improving elasticity
- Also fragrance-free, paraben-free, and alcohol-free
Key Differences:
- Paula’s Choice contains more peptides and amino acids
- The Ordinary includes Copper Tripeptide-1 and Lysine, which are not present in Paula’s Choice
- Paula’s Choice excludes Matrixyl 3000, while The Ordinary uses it prominently
Texture Comparison
Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster
- Lightweight, silky serum
- Absorbs quickly into the skin
- Leaves no oily or sticky residue
- Can be mixed with other skincare products seamlessly
The Ordinary Buffet
- Slightly thicker and more viscous texture
- Feels gooey and milky, yet still absorbs quickly
- Subtle, barely noticeable chemical scent
- Doesn’t leave behind a greasy or tacky finish
Verdict: Paula’s Choice offers a more weightless feel, while The Ordinary provides a richer, more substantial application experience.
Packaging Comparison
Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster
- Comes in a 20ml airtight pink and white bottle
- Features a pump dropper for hygienic and precise application
- Travel-friendly and secure packaging design
The Ordinary Buffet
- Housed in a clear glass bottle with a classic dropper
- Available in 30ml and 60ml sizes
- Minimalist design in line with The Ordinary’s brand identity
- Needs to be stored away from direct sunlight to preserve the active ingredients
Price Comparison
When choosing a skincare product, price can be a deciding factor—especially when comparing formulas with similar claims.
- Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster: $58.00 for 20ml
- The Ordinary Buffet:
- $13.50 for 30ml
- $17.50 for 60ml
Cost per ml:
- Paula’s Choice: ~$2.90/ml
- The Ordinary (30ml): ~$0.45/ml
- The Ordinary (60ml): ~$0.29/ml
Verdict: The Ordinary Buffet is significantly more affordable, making it ideal for those on a budget or just starting with peptides.
Final Verdict: Which Serum Should You Choose?
Choose Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster if you:
- Want a lightweight, fast-absorbing serum
- Are looking for a wider range of peptides and amino acids
- Prefer hygienic and travel-friendly pump packaging
- Are targeting more advanced signs of aging with clinical backing
Choose The Ordinary Buffet if you:
- Need a budget-friendly serum without compromising on performance
- Like a richer texture that still absorbs well
- Appreciate minimalist, straightforward skincare
- Prefer larger size options with excellent value
Conclusion
Both Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster and The Ordinary Buffet offer effective peptide-based solutions for aging skin. Your ideal pick depends on your budget, formulation preference, and how your skin responds to different textures.
If you’re seeking clinical-level results, elegant packaging, and a broader peptide profile, go for Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster.
But if you want a solid, affordable peptide serum that covers all the basics, The Ordinary Buffet is a fantastic choice.