If you’re passionate about skincare, you’ve likely heard of The Ordinary—a brand celebrated for its science-backed formulas and budget-friendly pricing. Among its most popular offerings are The Ordinary Buffet and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. While both are hydrating serums, they serve different purposes and contain unique ingredient profiles.
In this guide, we’ll compare these two bestselling serums, breaking down their ingredients, benefits, textures, usage tips, packaging, and pricing—so you can decide which is best for your skincare routine.
What You’ll Learn in This Article:
- Key ingredient differences between The Ordinary Buffet and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Main functions of each product
- Texture and skin feel comparison
- Best way to use each serum in your skincare routine
- Packaging and pricing differences
- Final verdict: which one should you choose?
About The Ordinary
The Ordinary, part of the DECIEM family, has disrupted the skincare world with a clear mission: delivering clinical formulations with integrity. The brand prioritizes transparency, affordability, and efficacy—using ingredients supported by scientific research and minimalistic formulations that work.
Ingredients: Peptides vs Hydration Powerhouses
Understanding what goes into each serum is essential for choosing the one that meets your skin’s specific needs.
The Ordinary Buffet – A Peptide-Rich Formula
This multi-technology serum is packed with a potent peptide complex, which helps support collagen production, firm the skin, and target visible signs of aging. Notable ingredients include:
- Peptides – including Matrixyl 3000, Matrixyl Synthe’6, and Argirelox
- Amino Acids – such as Arginine for skin hydration and repair
- Copper Tripeptide-1 – known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties
- Lysine & Hyaluronic Acid – to hydrate and improve skin texture
Altogether, The Ordinary Buffet contains over 50 active ingredients, making it a comprehensive anti-aging treatment.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 – Hydration Hero
As the name suggests, this serum focuses on delivering deep hydration with:
- 2% Hyaluronic Acid – using different molecular weights for multi-level hydration
- Sodium Hyaluronate & Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer – to bind moisture and retain hydration
- Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) – a humectant that softens and soothes
- Ahnfeltia Concinna Extract – helps boost circulation
- Glycerin – reinforces the skin barrier and locks in moisture
While both serums contain hyaluronic acid, Buffet offers a wider spectrum of anti-aging benefits, whereas Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is focused primarily on hydration.
Function: What Each Serum Does
The Ordinary Buffet
Designed as an all-in-one anti-aging treatment, Buffet helps:
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve skin elasticity and firmness
- Hydrate and smooth skin texture
- Support long-term collagen production
Ideal for: All skin types, especially those concerned with early signs of aging.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
This serum targets moisture loss and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier. It:
- Delivers intense hydration at multiple layers of the skin
- Improves skin softness and plumpness
- Enhances the effects of other products by prepping the skin
Ideal for: Dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin types.
Texture & Skin Feel
The Ordinary Buffet
- Consistency: Medium-thick and slightly viscous
- Finish: Initially tacky but absorbs within minutes, leaving skin smooth
- Fragrance: Fragrance-free with a neutral scent
While richer in feel, it layers well with other serums and moisturizers once absorbed.
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Consistency: Lightweight and watery
- Finish: Non-sticky, fast-absorbing, and completely residue-free
- Fragrance: Scentless
Perfect for layering and for those who prefer a feather-light serum that delivers deep hydration.
How to Use: Routine Integration
The Ordinary Buffet
- When to Use: Morning and night, after cleansing and before moisturizer
- Best For: Anti-aging routines focused on skin firmness and texture
- Tips: Use it as your main treatment serum, before heavier creams
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- When to Use: Morning and evening, ideally on damp skin
- Best For: Hydration-focused routines for dry or dehydrated skin
- Tips: Layer under serums or creams to lock in moisture; can be mixed with other actives
Packaging & Price: What’s the Difference?
Packaging
Both serums come in The Ordinary’s signature frosted glass bottle with a dropper cap for hygienic, controlled application.
- Buffet Sizes: 30ml and 60ml
- Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Sizes: 30ml
Price Comparison
- The Ordinary Buffet: ~$13.50 (30ml) / ~$17.50 (60ml)
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5: ~$7.00 (30ml)
Buffet is roughly twice the price of the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5—but it also includes a broader range of active ingredients.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose The Ordinary Buffet if you:
- Want a multi-ingredient anti-aging solution
- Are targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and firmness
- Don’t mind investing a bit more for a comprehensive formula
Choose The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 if you:
- Need simple, effective hydration
- Have dry or dehydrated skin
- Prefer a more affordable, lightweight serum
Final Thoughts
Both The Ordinary Buffet and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 are excellent serums—each with distinct strengths. Whether you’re building a beginner routine or refining an advanced one, choosing the right product comes down to your skin concerns, goals, and budget.
If you’re looking to hydrate and repair the skin barrier without spending much, go for Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. If you’re seeking a powerful, all-in-one anti-aging treatment, then Buffet is well worth the extra investment.