As you dive deeper into the world of skincare, finding the perfect serum can feel overwhelming—especially with brands like The Ordinary, known for offering straightforward, science-driven products. Among their bestsellers, two standout serums often get compared: The Ordinary Buffet and The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics.
While both aim to enhance your skin’s health and appearance, they serve very different purposes. So, what sets them apart, and how do you know which one belongs in your skincare routine?
In this article, we’ll explore the key features, ingredients, textures, usage guidelines, and pricing of both serums to help you make an informed choice.
Topics Covered:
- What Are The Ordinary Buffet and Marine Hyaluronics?
- Key Ingredients Comparison
- Texture & Consistency
- Recommended Usage
- Price Breakdown
- Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Buy?
About The Ordinary Buffet and Marine Hyaluronics
The Ordinary is a Canadian skincare brand under DECIEM, recognized for revolutionizing the industry with affordable yet highly effective formulations. The brand prioritizes ingredient transparency and minimalism, offering products that deliver results without unnecessary additives.
The Ordinary Buffet
A multi-technology anti-aging serum, The Ordinary Buffet is designed to combat wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of firmness. It combines several peptide complexes and hydration-boosting agents into one product. Known for its plumping, firming, and smoothing benefits, Buffet is a go-to for anyone looking to improve skin texture and reduce signs of aging.
The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics
This ultra-lightweight hydrating serum is a marine-derived alternative to hyaluronic acid. It features sustainably sourced marine ingredients that deeply hydrate without the heaviness of traditional HA serums. Marine Hyaluronics is perfect for those who want intense hydration in a feather-light formula.
Ingredients: What’s Inside Each Formula?
The Ordinary Buffet
Buffet is packed with peptides—proteins that support the skin’s structural integrity. Its key ingredients include:
- Matrixyl 3000 & Matrixyl synthe’6: Promote collagen production.
- Copper Tripeptide-1: Supports healing and improves skin firmness.
- Argirelox & SYN-AKE: Reduce dynamic wrinkles and fine lines.
- Hyaluronic Acid & Amino Acids (e.g., Arginine, Lysine): Provide deep hydration and skin nourishment.
In total, Buffet includes over 50 active ingredients aimed at delivering comprehensive anti-aging benefits.
The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics
This serum contains marine-derived ingredients that attract and retain moisture:
- Exopolysaccharides from marine bacteria
- Hawaiian red algae
- Antarctic glycoproteins
- Micro-filtered blue-green algae
- Essential amino acids
All marine elements are vegan and sustainably sourced. The formula contains a 23% concentration of active ingredients, making it a powerful hydrator without heaviness.
Texture & Feel on the Skin
The Ordinary Buffet
- Texture: Slightly thick, viscous gel-serum consistency.
- Absorption: Leaves a mildly tacky finish at first, but absorbs quickly and leaves the skin smooth.
- Best For: Those who prefer a more nourishing, slightly richer serum.
The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics
- Texture: Watery and ultra-light—almost like pure water.
- Absorption: Absorbs instantly, making it perfect for layering under other products.
- Scent: Some users detect a marine or herbal scent, which may be off-putting to scent-sensitive users. Others report little to no smell.
How to Use Each Serum for Best Results
The Ordinary Buffet
- When: AM and/or PM after cleansing.
- How to Use: Apply a few drops to your face and neck before moisturizer.
- Best For: All skin types, especially those concerned with aging, texture, and dullness.
- Do Not Combine With: Pure Vitamin C (LAA/ELAA), direct acids (like glycolic, lactic, salicylic), niacinamide, or retinoids—these may affect the effectiveness of peptides or cause irritation.
The Ordinary Marine Hyaluronics
- When: Use daily—AM and/or PM—after cleansing, but before other serums or moisturizers.
- Best For: All skin types, especially dehydrated, oily, or combination skin due to its non-greasy finish.
- Do Not Combine With: Peptide-based serums (like Buffet), or antioxidant-rich products like EUK 134, which may conflict with Marine Hyaluronics’ chemistry.
Price Comparison
| Product | 30ml | 60ml |
| The Ordinary Buffet | ~$13.50 | ~$17.50 |
| Marine Hyaluronics | ~$9.20 – $10.99 | Not available |
The Buffet serum is slightly more expensive, mainly due to its complex blend of anti-aging peptides and ingredients. Meanwhile, Marine Hyaluronics offers a more affordable solution focused on hydration.
Final Verdict: Which Serum Should You Choose?
The decision between The Ordinary Buffet and Marine Hyaluronics comes down to your skincare goals:
- Choose The Ordinary Buffet if you’re targeting:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Loss of firmness
- Uneven texture and skin tone
- A complete anti-aging solution
- Choose Marine Hyaluronics if you need:
- Lightweight, deep hydration
- A serum that layers well with other products
- An alternative to hyaluronic acid
- Something suited to oily or sensitive skin
Both products are affordable, effective, and versatile, but they cater to different needs. If your primary concern is hydration without weight, go for Marine Hyaluronics. If you’re aiming to tackle multiple signs of aging, Buffet is your powerhouse solution.
Your Skincare, Simplified
Ultimately, you can use both—just not in the same routine. Alternate usage between morning and night or different days, and be mindful of ingredient interactions.
With the right choice, you can elevate your skincare routine and achieve smoother, healthier, and more radiant skin with The Ordinary.