Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution
Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution
Product Description
Product overview
The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution is a lightweight, water-based serum that soothes blemish-prone skin and visibly reduces post-acne marks. Formulated with concentrated aloe leaf juice powder, N-Acetyl Glucosamine, and Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl), it targets uneven skin tone, textural irregularities, redness, and enlarged pores while strengthening the skin barrier.
Targets Post-Acne Marks
The Ordinary's first product specifically designed for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) left behind after breakouts heal.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTargets Post-Acne Marks
The Ordinary's first product specifically designed for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) left behind after breakouts heal.
Biotechnology-Derived NAG
N-Acetyl Glucosamine is a hyaluronic acid precursor and natural moisturizing factor that helps inhibit melanin transfer for more even skin tone.
Barrier Strengthening
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) supports collagen synthesis, smooths textural irregularities, and reinforces the skin barrier for healthier skin long-term.
Concentrated Aloe Powder
Uses aloe leaf juice powder (not diluted juice), providing concentrated anti-inflammatory and soothing properties without excess water.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThe Ordinary has not tested this product on pregnant or nursing individuals. Contains trace lactic acid as a pH adjuster. Consult your physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Isoceteth-20 (an ethoxylated emulsifier) which may feed Malassezia yeast. Those with fungal acne should consider The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum instead.
Free of oils, silicones, and known pore-clogging ingredients. Very unlikely to cause breakouts. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Do not use in the same routine with direct acids (AHA/BHA/Azelaic), direct vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid), or Resveratrol & Ferulic Acid. These can denature the peptide technology. Use in alternating routines (AM/PM or alternate days).
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and silicone-free formula. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, though those very reactive to lactic acid should patch test first.
Can be safely used alongside retinol (not retinoids that are direct acids). Also pairs well with Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Copper Peptides.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder 2%Proven
Concentrated, freeze-dried aloe vera powder that retains anti-inflammatory, soothing, and moisturizing properties without excess water. Rich in polysaccharides and vitamins A, C, and E for antioxidant protection.
- Soothing: Known anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties help calm post-breakout redness and irritation
- Hydration: Polysaccharides mimic the natural carbohydrates in the skin's upper layer, helping retain moisture
- Concentration: Powder form means 2% is far more potent than 2% of diluted aloe juice typically found in other products
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) 2%Proven
A naturally occurring amino-monosaccharide that serves as a building block for hyaluronic acid in the skin. Biotechnology-derived ingredient that targets uneven skin tone and supports hydration simultaneously.
- Brightening: Inhibits the glycosylation of pro-melanogenic proteins, reducing melanin production and helping fade dark spots
- Hydration: As a precursor to hyaluronic acid, it supports the skin's natural moisture-binding capacity
- Synergy: Clinical studies show enhanced efficacy when combined with niacinamide for reducing hyperpigmentation
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl) <1%Proven
A five-amino-acid peptide (lysine-threonine-threonine-lysine-serine) attached to a fatty acid for better skin penetration. Signals collagen production and supports barrier repair.
- Collagen Stimulation: Signals fibroblasts to produce more collagen and fibronectin, improving skin firmness and texture
- Barrier Support: Helps strengthen the skin's protective barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss
- Anti-Aging: Clinical studies show reduction in fine lines and wrinkles with regular use
Biosaccharide Gum-2 <1%Promising
A high-molecular-weight polysaccharide that acts as a protective film former, boosting skin comfort, soothing irritation, and protecting against environmental stressors.
- Comfort Agent: Forms a protective film that reduces skin sensitivity and increases comfort
- Anti-Irritation: Helps reduce the effects of environmental and chemical irritation on the skin
18 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, N-Acetyl Glucosamine, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Biosaccharide Gum-2, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Isoceteth-20, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Sodium Lactate, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as an early treatment step after cleansing and toning. Use AM and/or PM. Apply thinnest to thickest — this lightweight serum goes before heavier serums and moisturizers. Pairs perfectly with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% in the same routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and prepare the skin for treatment. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Apply a Few Drops
Shake the bottle well. Dispense 3–4 drops into the palm of your hand. Gently pat or massage the serum onto the entire face, focusing on areas with post-acne marks or redness.
Let It Absorb
Allow the serum to fully absorb for about 30 seconds before applying the next product in your routine. It should feel lightweight and non-sticky.
Follow with Moisturizer & SPF
Layer a moisturizer on top. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ to protect healing skin and prevent further pigmentation.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have red or brown post-acne marks (PIH or PIE) that linger after breakouts
- You want a gentle, soothing treatment that won't irritate sensitive or blemish-prone skin
- You need a lightweight water-based serum that layers well under other products
- You want to strengthen your skin barrier while fading discoloration
- You prefer fragrance-free, oil-free, vegan skincare at an affordable price point
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — this formula contains Isoceteth-20
- You need intense, fast-acting brightening — stronger actives like vitamin C or azelaic acid may be more effective
- You want to treat active acne — this targets post-acne marks, not active breakouts
- You use many direct acids or vitamin C in your routine and cannot alternate
- You need deep sun damage pigmentation treatment — this is optimized for post-inflammatory marks
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESUltra-lightweight, water-based formula absorbs instantly. Oil-free and silicone-free — no added shine or greasy residue.
Contains glycerin and propanediol for hydration. Aloe powder provides soothing moisture. Layer with a richer moisturizer for best results.
Balances perfectly across different face zones. Lightweight enough for the T-zone, hydrating enough for drier cheeks.
Fragrance-free, gentle formula with soothing aloe. Contains trace lactic acid as pH adjuster — patch test if highly reactive. May sting on sensitized skin.
Very low comedogenic rating (1/5). Oil-free, non-greasy formula specifically designed for blemish-prone skin. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Hydration & Soothing
Skin feels more hydrated, refreshed, and calmed. The aloe and glycerin provide instant moisture, and minor redness may start to look less inflamed.
80% noticed improved hydrationReduced Redness & Smoother Texture
Post-acne redness begins to fade visibly. Skin texture feels smoother and more refined. The peptide technology starts supporting barrier repair.
60% noticed reduced rednessVisible Mark Fading & Tone Evening
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (brown marks) and erythema (red marks) show measurable fading. Pores appear visibly smaller. Skin tone looks more even.
70% noticed fading of post-acne marksSignificant Improvement in Skin Clarity
With consistent twice-daily use, post-acne marks are significantly faded. Skin barrier is noticeably stronger, and overall complexion appears healthier and more balanced.
75% reported clearer, more even skinRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Very affordable for a multi-active peptide serum ($14.50 for 30ml)
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture layers beautifully under makeup and other products
- Gentle enough for daily use AM and PM without irritation for most users
- Effectively reduces post-acne redness and marks with consistent use
- Clean, minimal 18-ingredient formula free from common irritants
- Fragrance-free and odorless — ideal for sensitive noses
- Unique post-acne care approach different from harsh acid treatments
- Vegan and cruelty-free with sustainable packaging
Criticized
- Results are gradual — takes 8+ weeks for visible mark fading
- Many product conflicts (no direct acids, vitamin C, or Resveratrol & Ferulic Acid)
- Can sting on sensitized or freshly shaved skin due to lactic acid
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Isoceteth-20)
- Only 30ml size available — can run out quickly with twice-daily use
- May get slightly tacky if too much is applied
- Less effective for deep sun damage pigmentation vs. post-inflammatory marks
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Shares 9 common ingredients and a similar gloopy texture. Uses direct lactic acid (5%) for stronger exfoliation and brightening. More potent for PIH but may be more irritating for sensitive skin. Does not contain peptide technology.
Targets similar concerns: pore size, uneven tone, and sebum control. Uses niacinamide instead of NAG for brightening. Pairs excellently with the Aloe 2% + NAG 2% (official recommendation). Does not contain peptides or aloe.
Targets redness, texture, and pore appearance using an azelaic acid derivative instead of NAG. Better for redness-prone and rosacea-adjacent skin. Different mechanism of action but similar end goals for post-blemish recovery.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The UV-excluding brown glass bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation.
UV-excluding dark brown glass bottle with glass dropper applicator
Yes — 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe Ordinary has not tested this product on pregnant or nursing individuals and cannot confirm its safety during pregnancy. The formula contains lactic acid as a pH adjuster (not at an active exfoliation level), but there are no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. It is best to consult your physician before using this product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Isoceteth-20, an ethoxylated emulsifier that may feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Balancing & Clarifying Serum instead, which is confirmed fungal acne safe and addresses similar skin concerns.
This serum should NOT be used in the same routine as direct acids (AHA, BHA, Azelaic Acid), direct vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid, Ethylated Ascorbic Acid), or Resveratrol & Ferulic Acid — these can denature the peptide technology. However, you CAN use them in alternating routines (morning vs. evening, or on alternate days). It IS compatible with retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and copper peptides in the same routine.
This serum is suitable for all skin types but is especially formulated for blemish-prone and oily skin. It works excellently for combination skin due to its lightweight, oil-free texture. Dry skin types will benefit from the hydrating properties but should layer a richer moisturizer on top. Sensitive skin types can use it, though a patch test is recommended as the trace lactic acid may cause mild stinging on very reactive skin.
Hydration and soothing effects are noticed within the first 1–2 weeks. Visible reduction in redness typically begins around weeks 3–4. Significant fading of post-acne marks (both red and brown) usually takes 8–12 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Full results may take 3–6 months depending on the severity of marks. Patience and consistent use are key — this is a gentle approach, not a quick-fix acid peel.
Apply this water-based serum as an early treatment step: after cleansing and toning, but before heavier serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Since it is very lightweight, it should go before thicker products. Use it both morning and evening for best results. In the AM, always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
This product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and does not contain known pore-clogging ingredients. It is very unlikely to cause breakouts and is specifically designed for blemish-prone skin. In fact, it helps reduce the appearance of pores over time.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The product comes in a 30ml UV-excluding dark brown glass bottle with a dropper, which helps protect the formula from light degradation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for optimal shelf life. With twice-daily use, the 30ml bottle typically lasts around 6–8 weeks.
Verdict: The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution is a well-formulated, affordable serum that takes a genuinely innovative approach to post-acne care. With its minimal 18-ingredient formula combining concentrated aloe powder, NAG, and Matrixyl peptide, it offers gentle yet effective brightening, soothing, and barrier-strengthening benefits at an exceptional price point. The results are gradual rather than dramatic, and the product conflicts with direct acids and vitamin C may be limiting for some routines. However, for anyone dealing with lingering post-acne marks who wants a gentle, science-backed treatment without harsh exfoliation, this is one of the best budget options available. Pair it with Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% for an affordable, effective post-blemish recovery routine.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder
|
|