The Ordinary Buffet
Although I love my luxurious cleansing balms and face oils, I’m a sucker for affordable skincare products... and there’s no brand out there that’s more pocket-friendly than The Ordinary! Since I’ve been travelling a fair bit, I’ve been on the lookout for a multi-tasking serum so I don’t have to lug around a gazillion bottles. Much to my delight, the brand’s Buffet seemed to fit right in with my requirements. Here is my honest review of the product.
Like the other products in this line, this one too comes in a frosted glass bottle with a dropper. This type of minimal packaging really appeals to me and keeps the formula sanitized. Unlike the other serums however, this one features a long list of ingredients, which can be found on the accompanying box along with the directions for use. There’s also a cautionary warning to not use this formula along with any vitamin C or acid-based products.
The Ordinary Buffet
Speaking of ingredients, this serum is exactly as advertised – a buffet of incredible chemicals. Although the list is too vast, there are a few key ingredients that you should know about. The formula contains 5 peptides, including Matrixyl 3000, Syn-Ake and Agirelox, which are known to boost collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. There’s also a Probiotic complex (with lactococcus lactis lysate), which helps in renewing skin. These ingredients are blended in a base of 11 amino acids and hyaluronic acid complexes.
In terms of formula, this was a great serum to use. The lightweight and water-like texture ensure that the product goes on smoothly. Since the formula is clear in colour, it dries down invisibly. Unlike the brand’s hyaluronic acid serum, this one doesn’t leave behind a tacky film. The product has a faint fragrance, which is not bothersome in the least. Whilst you can apply it on dry skin, I prefer massaging it on to damp skin as I find that it absorbs better when used this way. 3-4 drops are enough to cover my entire face.
The Ordinary Buffet
I’ve been using this serum for a month now and have been pretty happy with the results. My skin feels more hydrated and bouncy, which is always a good thing. Whilst I don’t (luckily!) have deep wrinkles, I’ve found that the serum plumps up my skin and makes it look a tad smoother. The formula plays well under my moisturiser and doesn’t cause any pilling. However, if you are expecting a product that will revamp your complexion, this isn’t the one to buy! The effects are quite subtle, so you can consider it as a booster product in your skincare regime.
Weightless and hydrating, this peptide-rich serum is perfect for mature or dry skin. Although I won’t be using it on a daily basis, I’ll be taking it out whenever my face feels a little too parched or stressed.
Price: USD 19.90
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Pentapeptide-18, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Acetylarginyltryptophyl Diphenylglycine and Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer