SKINCARE
5 WAYS TO USE
Aloe Vera
BY JESSICA DROGANIS
IF SKINCARE HAD A SIGNATURE PLANT, IT WOULD BE ALOE. SHE’ S THE QUIET
OVERACHIEVER ON YOUR BEAUTY SHELF – COOLING, CALMING, AND ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU AFTER A LITTLE TOO MUCH SUN, STRESS,
OR LATE NIGHTS.
As a local beauty expert at Africology, I reach for aloe whenever I want skin that looks loved from the inside out. Here are five playful ways to bring aloe into your beauty routine.
1. THE FIRST-CRUSH CLEANSE
Before any big date, start with a gentle aloeinfused cleanse. Think of it as a soft reset for your skin, washing away city dust, excess oil, and the day’ s drama without stripping your natural barrier. Massage gently, using your fingertips as if giving your face a mini-facial. Skin feels fresh, not squeaky, and perfectly prepped for everything that follows.
2. ALOE GLOW MASK FOR RADIANCE
Ten minutes with aloe can feel like a weekend away. Apply a generous layer of pure aloe gel or an aloe-rich mask, then press a cool, damp cloth over your face. As you breathe deeply, aloe works to soften, hydrate, and visibly refresh the complexion. Rinse off, and you’ re left with that“ I drink my water and mind my business” kind of glow.
3. SILKY-SOFT LEGS & UNDERARMS
Planning a silky-skin moment? Use aloe after shaving or waxing to soothe skin and reduce the appearance of irritation. Smooth it over legs, underarms, or the bikini line with light, upward strokes. It feels instantly cooling, especially in our South African summer heat, and helps your skin look smoother so satin dresses and shorts sit beautifully.
4. ALOE FOR GLOSSY, HAPPY HAIR
Your scalp deserves romance, too. Work a little aloe into your pre-shampoo ritual by massaging it into the scalp to help soothe dryness and tension. You can also lightly smooth aloe along the lengths of damp hair for a softer, more manageable feel and a natural-looking sheen. Think effortless, touchable hair that still feels like yours.
5. A COUPLE’ S HAND BESTY
Finally, turn aloe into a moment of connection. In the evening, massage aloe into your partner’ s hands and forearms, then swap. It’ s a simple, intimate ritual that leaves skin supple and cared for. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oil blend, dim the lights, and let aloe set the mood for a slower, more heart-centred Valentine’ s Day. IB
42 INBOUND SA / FEBRUARY 2026