The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Versus The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution
Updated on March 07, 2025
Overview
What they are
These products are both vegan, cruelty-free, and reef safe serums. They have a total of 5 ingredients in common
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for dry skin, sensitive skin, scar healing and dark spots
Free From
They both do not contain any harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones or sulfates
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that needs an update? Let us know.
Ingredient Info
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution 18 ingredients
What's inside (and what isn't)
What's inside (and what isn't)
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution 18 ingredients
Benefits
Key Ingredients
Benefits
Concerns
Ingredients Side-by-side
Water
Skin ConditioningPropanediol
Solvent
Glycerin
Humectant
Dipropylene Glycol
MaskingAloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder
Skin Conditioning
Acetyl Glucosamine
Skin ConditioningPalmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Skin Conditioning
Biosaccharide Gum-2
Skin ConditioningPentylene Glycol
Skin ConditioningXanthan Gum
EmulsifyingIsoceteth-20
Emulsifying
Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone
Skin ConditioningSodium Lactate
BufferingLactic Acid
Buffering
Sodium Hydroxide
BufferingEthylhexylglycerin
Skin ConditioningPhenoxyethanol
Preservative
Chlorphenesin
Antimicrobial
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
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterPropanediol is an all-star ingredient. It softens, hydrates, and smooths the skin.
It’s often used to:
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use. It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolSodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.
In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.
Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.
"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.
Learn more about Sodium HydroxidePhenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose.
It's often used in formulations along with Caprylyl Glycol to preserve the shelf life of products.
Chlorphenesin is a synthetic preservative. It helps protect a product against bacteria in order to extend shelf life. In most cases, Chlorphenesin is paired with other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol and caprylyl glycol.
Chlorphenesin is a biocide. This means it is able to help fight the microorganisms on our skin. It is also able to fight odor-releasing bacteria.
Chlorphenesin is soluble in both water and glycerin.
Studies show Chlorphenesin is easily absorbed by our skin. You should speak with a skincare professional if you have concerns about using Chlorphenesin.
Learn more about ChlorphenesinIngredient Ratings
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these products.
When to use
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution 18 ingredients
Reviews
Here's what our community thinks
The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 15 ingredients
The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution 18 ingredients
I love this so much I kicked Niacinamide off my routine because this seems to finally be doing all the things Niacinamide was supposed to do for me skin. Now that I have checked the ingredients it makes sense :)
My skin is clearer, less textured and breakout spots fade noticeably faster. It feels amazing and goes great over and under other serums. Absolute new holy grail product.
I started using this product in 2023 and have repurchased it a couple times since and I really enjoy the way it keeps PIH away following acne breakouts. Another reviewer said this serum replaced Niacinamide in their routine and I definitely feel the same, I enjoyed this more!
I have very oily skin that’s prone to acne and congestion and I really appreciated the lactic acid in the ingredients as Show more
