# The Ordinary Buffet for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin is provided by glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, which offer humectant action and barrier repair, supporting your acne-prone skin with hydration and soothing benefits. Multiple peptides like Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 are present in high concentrations, delivering excellent plumping and firming effects for visible anti-aging results.
- The formulation is safe for your acne-prone skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing agents like allantoin and glycerin, ensuring no irritation.
- This product is an excellent match for your skin concerns.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Peptides, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Lactococcus Lysate Ferment, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Argireline treatment twice daily for 4 weeks produced a significant anti-wrinkle effect with 48.9% total efficacy and decreased skin roughness in Chinese subjects compared with 0% efficacy and no decrease in roughness in the placebo group. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/))
- Argireline applied twice daily for 4 weeks achieved a total anti-wrinkle efficiency of 48.9% and notably reduced wrinkle depth compared to placebo in Chinese subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23607739/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Treatment with cross-linked hyaluronic acid-based microneedle patches combined with acetyl hexapeptide-8 or epidermal growth factor significantly improved wrinkles and skin hydration compared to the patch alone in Korean females over 29 days. ([Annals of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33911590/))
- Acetyl hexapeptide-3 and tripeptide-10 citrulline demonstrated antiwrinkle efficacy and decreased transepidermal water loss in twenty-four healthy volunteers compared to control groups, though synergistic effects between the two peptides remained unclear. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28150423/))
- Daily topical acetyl hexapeptide-8 showed a trend toward a longer time until return to baseline Jankovic Blepharospasm Rating Scale scores compared to placebo (3.7 months vs. 3.0 months) in 24 patients with blepharospasm receiving botulinum toxin therapy. ([European Journal of Neurology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23146065/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this serum is a highly-rated, affordable option for anti-aging, with users frequently reporting improved hydration, plumpness, and skin texture. While generally well-tolerated, a notable number of users experience a sticky finish or pilling under makeup, and some sensitive skin types report breakouts.

- Liked: Great value (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrates and plumps (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle for most (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (often mentioned)
- Liked: Reduces fine lines (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: No visible results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pills under makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary Buffet serum one of the best fits for acne-prone skin?

The Ordinary Buffet is an excellent fit for acne-prone skin because it combines glycerin and sodium hyaluronate for deep hydration and barrier repair without clogging pores. It also includes soothing allantoin and multiple peptides that calm the skin while delivering firming and anti-aging benefits.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate make this serum a great fit for acne-prone skin by providing gentle hydration and barrier repair. It is unlikely to cause irritation because it leaves out harsh ingredients and includes soothing allantoin and glycerin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What do Peptides do for acne-prone skin?

Peptides help calm acne-prone skin by reducing redness and soothing inflammation while supporting the skin barrier. Certain advanced peptide formulas also work to target acne-causing bacteria and help balance oil production.
Sources: [Biochemical Pharmacology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39662606/), [Bioresources and Bioprocessing, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42219443/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for acne-prone skin?

Hyaluronic acid helps acne-prone skin by soothing irritation, calming redness, and keeping the skin balanced without clogging pores. When combined with targeted ingredients like zinc oxide, it may also help reduce breakouts.
Sources: [Biomedicines, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41007718/), [Drug Delivery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28155509/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing, for simplicity and extra safety around sun exposure. It is an excellent fit for acne-prone skin because it relies on glycerin and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer for hydration and soothing benefits without irritation.

### Can I use this serum with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this treatment with retinol by applying the serum first to deliver hydration and soothing benefits before your retinol. This product is unlikely to irritate acne-prone skin because it lacks harsh ingredients and includes calming agents like allantoin and glycerin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/)

### How often should I use this serum?

This treatment is a great match for your acne-prone skin and fits best in your evening routine for simplicity and safety. Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate offer soothing hydration, while peptides help smooth and firm your skin without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23417317/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This serum is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for acne-prone skin because it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing agents like glycerin and allantoin to keep the skin calm. Reviewers rarely report breakouts from this formula.

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $19.90 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BLHW7JZM?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Lactococcus Lysate Ferment, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Pentapeptide-18, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Acetylarginyltryptophyl Diphenylglycine, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Trehalose, Fructose, Glucose, Maltose, Urea, Sodium Pca, Pca, Sodium Lactate, Citric Acid, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethoxydiglycol, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/buffet/for/acne-prone-skin