The skincare industry can often be a labyrinth of confusion for consumers. With a plethora of products available, each boasting a myriad of health claims, it can be difficult to discern the truth from the exaggeration. Manufacturers often make grandiose claims about their skincare products, promising miraculous results that can sometimes fall short of reality. This can leave consumers feeling out-of-pocket and underwhelmed, highlighting the importance of due diligence when shopping for such products.

It is essential not to take these claims at face value and to delve deeper into the ingredients and science behind the product. This is where we come in. In this article, we will be critically analyzing the Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution by The Ordinary, a soothing serum that has been making waves in the skincare industry.

We will be scrutinising the claims made about this product, comparing them to the ingredients used, and performing a truth assessment to establish whether or not the product really will live up to its claims.

So, without further ado, let’s delve into the main claims being made about this product and break them down:

Claim #1: The Product Soothes Blemish-Prone Skin

The Ordinary’s Website States: “Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution is a lightweight soothing serum formulated for blemish-prone skin.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, which is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. This ingredient can help calm down blemish-prone skin and reduce redness and irritation. Therefore, the claim that the product soothes blemish-prone skin is true.

Claim #2: The Product Reduces the Appearance of Post-Acne Marks

The Ordinary’s Website States: “It reduces the appearance of post-acne marks through the inclusion of ingredients that target the look and feel of both uneven skin tone and texture.”

Truth Assessment: Possibly

Explanation: The product contains N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG), which has been shown to improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of post-acne marks. However, the effectiveness of this ingredient can vary from person to person, and it may not work for everyone. Therefore, the claim that the product reduces the appearance of post-acne marks is possibly true.

Claim #3: The Product Helps Reduce the Appearance of Pores

The Ordinary’s Website States: “while also helping to reduce the appearance of pores.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: Although none of the ingredients in the product are proven to permanently reduce the size of pores, several ingredients, like glycerin, are known for their hydrating effects. By hydrating the skin, these ingredients can help make pores appear less noticeable temporarily. Therefore, it is accurate to claim that the product helps reduce the appearance of pores, as the visual impact on pores is noticeable, albeit temporary.

Claim #4: The Product Strengthens Skin Barrier

The Ordinary’s Website States: “and strengthening skin barrier.”

Truth Assessment: True

Explanation: The product contains Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, a peptide that has been shown to support the skin’s barrier function. A strong skin barrier is essential for maintaining skin health and preventing damage from environmental stressors. Therefore, the claim that the product strengthens the skin barrier is true.

Assessment Verdict:

Truth Rating: 9/10

Overall likelihood for product to make good on its claims: Likely

The product’s claims about soothing blemish-prone skin and strengthening the skin barrier are true, as they are backed by the presence of ingredients known for these benefits. The claim about reducing the appearance of post-acne marks is possibly true, as the effectiveness of the ingredient responsible for this can vary among individuals. However, the claim about reducing the appearance of pores is now considered true, as ingredients like glycerin can hydrate the skin and make pores appear less noticeable temporarily, even though they do not permanently alter pore size.

Users should be mindful that while the product contains ingredients known for certain benefits, the effectiveness can vary depending on individual skin types and conditions. Also, the product’s ability to deliver on its claims assumes that all ingredients are used in effective quantities. In skincare formulas, ingredient lists are in weight order, but this does not necessarily reflect the concentration of each ingredient in the formula. A higher position on the list does not always mean a higher concentration, and vice versa.

Remember, not all skincare products work the same for everyone. It’s important to understand your skin type and condition before choosing a product. Be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true, and always do your research. Look for scientific studies or reliable sources that back up the claims. If a product claims to drastically change your skin, it’s likely an exaggeration. Real changes in skin condition require time and consistent care.

This product review has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The review is conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, who utilizes a variety of reliable sources to ensure the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the information provided. These sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), and The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, various publicly available sources are also consulted to provide a well-rounded perspective on the product under review.