If you’re familiar with the skincare world, chances are you’ve come across two of The Ordinary’s most talked-about serums: Buffet and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. These affordable yet powerful formulas have become cult favorites due to their impressive results and budget-friendly price tags.
But when it comes to choosing between the two, things can get confusing. What sets them apart? Which one is better for your skin concerns? In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these two serums to help you make the best choice for your skin goals and budget.
What We’ll Cover:
- What are The Ordinary Buffet and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%?
- Ingredient breakdown and key benefits
- Texture and skin feel
- Ideal usage and application tips
- Price comparison
- Final verdict: Which one should you buy?
Overview: The Ordinary Buffet vs Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary Buffet
The Ordinary Buffet is a multi-technology peptide serum designed to tackle visible signs of aging. It targets fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness using a blend of advanced peptides, amino acids, and hydrating ingredients. Its formula aims to improve skin elasticity, hydration, and texture—making it a great choice for those looking to maintain youthful-looking skin.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This serum focuses on refining skin texture and tone. Formulated with a high 10% concentration of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% Zinc PCA, it helps reduce blemishes, regulate oil production, minimize pores, and calm redness. Ideal for oily, acne-prone, or congested skin, it’s a staple for clearer, smoother skin.
While both serums aim to enhance skin health, they address very different concerns—making it important to choose based on your skin’s needs.
Ingredient Comparison
Key Ingredients in The Ordinary Buffet
The star ingredients in Buffet are peptides—essential building blocks that support skin firmness and elasticity. This serum combines multiple active technologies, including:
- Matrixyl 3000 and Matrixyl Synthe’6: Support collagen production and reduce wrinkles
- Argirelox and Syn-Ake Peptides: Target expression lines and dynamic wrinkles
- Copper Tripeptide-1: Promotes overall skin repair and renewal
- Hyaluronic Acid Complex: Provides intense hydration and plumping effect
- Amino Acids like arginine and lysine: Boost hydration and strengthen the skin barrier
Key Ingredients in The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
This serum centers around two potent actives:
- Niacinamide (10%): Reduces blemishes, redness, uneven skin tone, and dullness
- Zinc PCA (1%): Helps balance sebum production and reduce inflammation
Additional ingredients include:
- Pentylene Glycol: Aids in moisture retention
- Dimethyl Isosorbide: Enhances ingredient delivery
- Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum and Xanthan Gum: Act as stabilizers and texturizers
These ingredients work together to improve clarity, calm irritation, and reduce shine—making it a great daily solution for problematic skin.
Texture & Application Experience
The Ordinary Buffet
- Texture: Lightly viscous and slightly tacky upon application
- Absorption: Absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling plump and hydrated
- Finish: Smooth with a brief tacky feel that fades within minutes
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Texture: Clear, gel-like, slightly thicker than water
- Absorption: Spreads easily and absorbs well, but may foam slightly during application
- Finish: Matte and shine-free; avoid over-application to reduce residue
Pro Tip: Always apply the Niacinamide serum to clean, dry skin to maximize absorption and minimize pilling or foaming.
Ideal Usage & Layering Guidelines
How to Use The Ordinary Buffet
- Best For: Dry, mature, or aging skin types
- When: Apply AM and/or PM after cleansing and before moisturizing
- How: Use a few drops, pat gently onto the face and neck
Avoid combining with direct acids (AHA/BHA), high-concentration Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), or strong retinoids in the same routine, as this may compromise the peptide effectiveness or cause irritation.
How to Use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
- Best For: Oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin
- When: Use twice daily—morning and night—after cleansing and toning
- How: Apply 2–3 drops to your face before moisturizer
Avoid mixing with acidic formulas like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or pure Vitamin C in the same routine. Combining niacinamide with strong acids may cause redness, flushing, or irritation.
Price Comparison
| Product | Size | Approximate Price |
| The Ordinary Buffet | 30ml | $13.50 |
| 60ml | $17.50 | |
| The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | 30ml | $6.00 |
| 60ml | $10.80 | |
| 120ml | $19.90 |
Clearly, Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is more budget-friendly, especially for those who need a simple, effective serum for daily use.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose The Ordinary Buffet if:
- You’re targeting wrinkles, fine lines, or skin aging
- You want a hydrating and firming formula with multi-peptides
- You’re looking for a comprehensive anti-aging solution
Choose The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or red skin
- You’re battling breakouts, large pores, or uneven tone
- You need a simple and affordable serum that fits into any routine
Final Verdict
Both The Ordinary Buffet and Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% are high-performance serums with very different purposes.
- Buffet is ideal for anti-aging and skin elasticity, offering a sophisticated blend of peptides and hydration boosters.
- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is your go-to for acne, oil control, and redness reduction, delivering excellent results at a lower cost.
Ultimately, the best serum for you will depend on your skin’s current condition, goals, and sensitivity level. You can even alternate between the two in different routines—just be cautious with ingredient layering to avoid irritation.