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

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

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

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

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

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate skin tone evening for your oily skin due to acetyl glucosamine and lactic acid, which gently exfoliate and reduce hyperpigmentation. Glycerin and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder provide general hydration and soothing benefits, supporting your goal of managing oily shine.
- The formulation is highly suitable for oily skin, with humectant and keratolytic actions from acetyl glucosamine and lactic acid, respectively.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/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/))
- N-acetyl-glucosamine-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers successfully delivered the hydrophilic agent through the skin and reduced melanin distribution in healthy volunteers. ([Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28101465/))
- Topical cosmetic products containing hyaluronic acid, N-acetyl glucosamine, and gamma-amino butyric acid improved skin hydration by 24.28% to 33.60%, elasticity by 11.98%, and skin lightening by 5.26% over 2 months in 20 female participants. ([Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30040516/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## 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 this serum in your PM routine. Start by applying it 3 times a week and build up to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer for the best results.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before applying the next product.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive and you want to target oily shine. This helps control excess oil throughout the night.
- Avoid the delicate eye area and do a patch test before using the serum for the very first time.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution works moderately well for oily skin by helping to gently exfoliate and even out skin tone while providing soothing hydration. It is safe and unlikely to cause irritation, though treatments with ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and ferulic acid fit oily skin better by controlling excess oil and refining pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/), [Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28101465/)

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

This serum fits oily skin through acetyl glucosamine and lactic acid, which gently exfoliate and even out skin tone, along with glycerin and aloe vera that provide comfortable hydration and soothe shine. To fit oily skin even better, a treatment of this type needs ingredients like niacinamide, zinc PCA, and ferulic acid to control excess oil and target enlarged pores.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/), [Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28101465/)

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

Aloe vera helps calm oily skin while keeping it comfortable and protected. It is unlikely to feel heavy, and it provides soothing and skin-protective properties that support a clear, smooth look.
Sources: [Phytomedicine, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31272819/)

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

N-Acetyl Glucosamine helps balance and smooth oily skin while boosting moisture. Because this type of skin also needs to control excess shine and keep pores clear, it benefits from formulas that combine this ingredient with niacinamide and gentle exfoliating agents.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19691938/)

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

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, starting once a week and using it more often if your skin tolerates it well. It is unlikely to cause irritation and helps even out skin tone while managing oily shine.

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

You can use this serum with retinol by applying the serum first and letting it absorb before putting on your retinol. This product is unlikely to irritate oily skin, but combining active ingredients means you should start slowly to see how your skin feels.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment in your evening routine once a week to start, and if your oily skin handles it well, you may carefully use it more often. It helps even out your skin tone while keeping your oily shine managed safely.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17348991/)

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

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on oily skin because it has a very safe formula with soothing ingredients and a low risk of irritation. Reviewers rarely mention breakouts, and the gentle exfoliating ingredients help keep pores clear while managing oily shine.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [NEOGEN DERMALOGY REAL VITA C SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vita-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Vitamin C Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-vitamin-c-serum/for/oily-skin) — High fit — S$50.41 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/oily-skin) — High fit — S$28.55 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$30.40 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [TROIAREUKE H+Cocktail Purifying Ampoule Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/troiareuke/h-cocktail-purifying-ampoule-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$168.51 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — S$33.87 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Singapore has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## 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/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/aloe-2-nag-2-solution/for/oily-skin