# The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate skin tone evening and pore refinement for your combination skin, as Acetyl Glucosamine and Lactic Acid work to gently exfoliate and reduce hyperpigmentation. Glycerin further supports your skin barrier and provides essential hydration.
- The formulation is safe for your combination skin, with no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.
- This product is suitable for your combination skin and addresses oily shine with mild exfoliation and pore refinement.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Aloe Barbadensis, N-Acetyl Glucosamine Nag, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Biosaccharide Gum-2, Glycerin

## What the research says

- Topical 2% N-acetyl glucosamine reduced facial hyperpigmentation in an 8-week split-face clinical test, with an even greater effect observed when combined with 4% niacinamide. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/))
- 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/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- N-acetylglucosamine dose dependently increased hyaluronan production in cultured keratinocytes, and its combination with retinoic acid or retinol exerted a synergistic effect. ([Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14976384/))
- Exogenous N-acetylglucosamine promotes hyaluronan production while having no effect on the expression of hyaluronan-synthesizing enzymes 1, 2, and 3 mRNA in cultured human dermal fibroblasts. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19247681/))
- Global gene expression profiling and in vitro biomarker approaches in human skin equivalent cultures successfully detected specific skin barrier, matrix, and hydration responses to topical compounds including niacinamide, hexamidine, Pal-KT, Pal-KTTKS, and N-acetylglucosamine. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19623777/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with acne-prone and sensitive skin frequently praise this serum for its ability to soothe redness and gradually fade post-acne marks without irritation. Many report improved skin texture and hydration, though some users find the results on older hyperpigmentation to be slow or unnoticeable.

- Liked: Soothing and calming (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Fades post-acne marks (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow or minimal results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Routine conflicts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky finish (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution work for combination skin?

This treatment works moderately well for combination skin by providing gentle exfoliation, pore refinement, and hydration. However, combination skin often needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, or propolis to better balance oiliness and enhance radiance.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for combination skin?

Acetyl glucosamine and lactic acid help smooth and even your skin tone, while glycerin keeps your skin hydrated. Combination skin needs ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, and zinc PCA to regulate oiliness and enhance radiance without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Aloe Vera do for combination skin?

Aloe vera helps keep combination skin hydrated without making it oily. It increases skin water content while supporting the skin barrier.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/)

### What does N-Acetyl Glucosamine do for combination skin?

N-Acetyl Glucosamine helps fade dark spots and uneven areas while keeping combination skin looking balanced and smooth. It is unlikely to clog pores and works well to improve overall skin tone.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17716251/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Combination skin needs products of this type that provide gentle exfoliation, pore refinement, and lightweight hydration.

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

This treatment works well in your evening routine, but using it with retinol may cause irritation since both help renew the skin. To be safe, apply this serum first and follow with your retinol on alternate nights, or use this in the morning and retinol at night.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum in your evening routine once a week to start, as it contains gentle exfoliating ingredients. If your combination skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often. Combination skin of this type needs gentle exfoliating acids and hydrating ingredients like glycerin to help smooth texture and keep pores clear.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for your combination skin, as it has a safe formula without harsh ingredients that could cause irritation. However, combination skin often needs lightweight hydrators and gentle exfoliants that specifically target excess oil in the T-zone for a better fit.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$16.95 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$52.32 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$639.95 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$22.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$22.90 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0C24WHN1R?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, 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
## 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/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin