With so many skincare products making bold promises, finding the right one for your specific needs can feel overwhelming. In this article, we’re taking a closer look at two popular options: The Ordinary Buffet and INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum.
Both are widely loved in the skincare community, but they target different concerns—The Ordinary Buffet is formulated for anti-aging, while INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum focuses on hydration. But what truly sets them apart?
Keep reading as we break down the ingredients, texture, usage, price, and performance of these two serums to help you make a more informed decision.
What We’ll Cover:
- Overview of Each Serum
- Key Ingredients
- Texture and Absorption
- How to Use
- Price Comparison
- Final Thoughts: Which One Is Better for You?
About The Ordinary Buffet and INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The Ordinary and The INKEY List are two standout brands in the affordable skincare space. Both emphasize transparency, science-backed formulations, and effective ingredients without the luxury price tag.
The Ordinary Buffet
The Ordinary Buffet is a multi-peptide serum that addresses various signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. It combines advanced active ingredients, including multiple peptides, amino acids, and hyaluronic acid, to deliver a comprehensive anti-aging solution. Users love its ability to hydrate, firm, and smooth the skin without irritation.
INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Meanwhile, the INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a hydration powerhouse. Formulated with 2% multi-molecular hyaluronic acid, it penetrates multiple skin layers to improve moisture retention, giving your skin a plump, healthy, and dewy appearance. It’s lightweight, non-sticky, and suitable for all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin.
Ingredient Breakdown
The Ordinary Buffet Key Ingredients
- Peptides (Matrixyl 3000, Matrixyl Synthe’6, Argirelox): Help improve skin elasticity and firmness.
- Copper Tripeptide-1: Known for its skin regeneration and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Amino Acids (including Arginine and Lysine): Support hydration and skin health.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep, multi-layer hydration.
This serum is a multi-tasker that tackles multiple concerns, from hydration and dullness to wrinkles and sagging.
INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum Key Ingredients
- 2% Multi-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid: Delivers moisture across different layers of the skin, holding up to 1000x its weight in water.
- Matrixyl 3000™: A peptide complex that promotes collagen production and skin elasticity.
While simpler in composition, this serum offers powerful hydration benefits and is gentle enough for daily use in any skincare routine.
Texture and Feel
The Ordinary Buffet
- Texture: Slightly thick and viscous with a smooth consistency.
- Feel on Skin: May feel slightly tacky at first, but the stickiness fades quickly as the serum absorbs.
- Finish: Leaves the skin feeling firm, hydrated, and nourished.
INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Texture: Lightweight, fluid, and silky.
- Feel on Skin: Absorbs rapidly and feels refreshing with no residue.
- Finish: Leaves the skin looking plump, dewy, and smooth.
Both formulas absorb well, but The INKEY List’s serum feels more featherlight and seamless for layering under makeup or other skincare products.
How to Use Each Serum
The Ordinary Buffet
- When to Apply: Morning and/or evening.
- How to Use: Apply a few drops to clean skin before heavier creams or oils.
- Important Notes:
- Avoid using with Vitamin C, direct acids, niacinamide, or retinoids in the same routine.
- Best for those looking to target multiple aging concerns.
INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- When to Apply: AM and PM.
- How to Use: Use immediately after cleansing, ideally on damp skin, and follow with moisturizer.
- Compatibility: Can be combined safely with all other skincare ingredients, making it perfect for any routine.
- Best suited for users needing lightweight hydration or dealing with dry, dehydrated, or oily skin.
Price Comparison
| Product | Size | Price |
| The Ordinary Buffet | 30ml | ~$13.50 |
| 60ml | ~$17.50 | |
| INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum | 30ml | ~$10 |
While The Ordinary Buffet is slightly more expensive, the price difference is minimal considering the broader range of benefits it offers. Still, INKEY List’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum remains one of the most affordable and effective hydration serums on the market.
Final Verdict: Which Serum Is Right for You?
Choose The Ordinary Buffet if:
- You want to tackle multiple signs of aging (wrinkles, fine lines, firmness).
- You’re looking for a multi-purpose serum with peptides and hydration benefits.
- You’re focused on long-term skin health and anti-aging support.
Choose INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum if:
- Your main concern is dryness, dehydration, or dullness.
- You want a lightweight, no-fuss hydrating serum that pairs with everything.
- You’re shopping on a tight budget and want an effective moisture boost.
Conclusion
Both The Ordinary Buffet and INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum deliver excellent results—but in different ways. The Ordinary Buffet takes a more advanced approach to skin health and aging, while The INKEY List Hyaluronic Acid Serum offers reliable, deep hydration with simple, effective ingredients.
Your choice ultimately depends on your skin goals, budget, and preferences. Whether you’re looking for anti-aging support or everyday moisture, either serum can be a valuable addition to your skincare routine.