Aloe vera gel, cream or soap: which one should you choose based on your skin type?

Do you have aloe vera At home, but not sure whether to use gel, cream or soap? This is a very common question: all three formats contain the plant’s beneficial properties, but each is designed for a different time of day and a different skin type. Here we explain the key differences and help you choose the one that best suits your routine, especially if you use Aloe vera from the Canary Islands, whose high concentration of acemannan makes it the most effective on the market.

In this article, we are going to compare the three most popular aloe vera formats: gel, cream and soap, so you can decide which one’s right for you.

What is the difference between aloe vera gel, cream and soap?

Before going into detail about each format, let’s take a quick look at the main differences:

What is aloe vera cream used for?

We will start by talking about the cream format, as it is the most versatile of the three (although pure aloe vera gel also has different and very interesting uses).

Aloe vera cream is a moisturising and skin repairing product which is made from the gel extracted from the leaves of the aloe vera plant. Aloe vera cream is ideal for dry and mature skin due to its moisturising properties and its ability to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.

Among its most common uses are:

• Intense hydrationAloe vera cream is an excellent source of moisture for dry skin, penetrating deep into the skin to provide long-lasting hydration.
• Anti-inflammatory actionAloe vera contains natural anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce inflammation and redness of the skin, making it ideal for people with sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
• Stimulation of collagen and elastin production: Aloe vera contains nutrients that help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, two essential proteins that keep skin firm and supple, which is why mature skin especially benefits from this form of aloe vera.

Aloe vera cream for dry or mature skin

If your skin tends to feel tight, dull or shows signs of ageing, this cream is your best ally. Apply it as the final step in the routine, both in the morning and in the evening, after applying your gel or serum. For very dry skin, you can apply a second layer in the evening as a leave-on mask.

Aloe vera gel: your best friend in skincare

Aloe vera gel is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after products in the cosmetics industry. Its high value and multiple benefits are well known, in addition to the fact that it is a very popular pure aloe vera gel is not as simple as it seems.

To give you an idea, aloe vera gel is extracted from the leaves of the aloe vera using a extraction process. The gel is a viscous, colourless, odourless substance found inside the leaves and contains a variety of beneficial components for the skin, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids and polysaccharides. Polysaccharides are especially important, as they can help retain moisture in the skin and reduce inflammation.

Also, as a fun fact: the pH of aloe vera gel is similar to that of human skin.which makes it gentle and non-irritating. This makes it an excellent choice for those with sensitive or irritation-prone skin. And for those who hate the oily feeling of oily skin, the gel is a great ally as it doesn't leave a sticky feel, so in hot climates or for those looking for something quick and effective, it's the perfect format. 

Accordingly, pure aloe vera gel is also perfect for: 

• Facial tonicAloe vera gel is a light moisturiser that can be used on all skin types to provide hydration without clogging pores, making it perfect for a daily facial routine as a toner to prepare the skin for the next treatment.
• For sunburnAloe vera gel is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and irritation on the skin, which makes it useful for treating sunburn, hence why it is recommended as an after sun if you've been sunbathing to prevent those pesky facial blemishes.
• Itch reliefAloe vera gel can be helpful in relieving itching associated with conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
• Treatment of minor woundsAloe vera gel has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful for treating minor wounds and promoting skin healing, which is why it is so helpful for acne-prone skin.

Aloe vera gel for oily or combination skin

If your skin tends to be shiny or combination, pure aloe vera gel is your best friend. Its light texture doesn’t block your pores and regulates sebum production without drying out the skin. Apply it after cleansing your face with soap, as a toner or serum, and allow it to absorb before applying the next product. It is the only moisturising step that many people with oily skin need in summer.

Aloe vera soap: what are its benefits?

Aloe vera soap is made by combining vegetable oils, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) and water, to which the aloe vera gel or extract is added. This process is known as saponification and is made by a chemical reaction between the oils and caustic soda, which converts the oils into soap. There are also formulations in which a glycerine or animal fat soap base is used.

Coconut oil, olive oil and palm oil are some of the oils commonly used in the production of aloe vera soap and aloe vera soap. can be combined in different proportions to achieve different textures and characteristics.. In addition, other ingredients such as essential oils, herbs and natural dyes can be added to personalise the soap.

And of course, it brings benefits such as:

• Moisturise the skin and help to keep the skin soft. Of course, it must be a soap made with quality ingredients and should not be abused as some formulations can have the opposite effect: drying out the skin.
• Aloe vera also has antibacterial propertiesTherefore, the first step in acne treatment is usually to cleanse the face with a gel formulated with aloe vera, as its antifungal and antibacterial properties are very effective.
• Aloe vera soap is gentle and non-irritating due to the oils used in the soap making process, which makes it suitable for people with sensitive skin.

Which one should you choose based on your skin type? A comprehensive guide

As you can see, the benefits they offer are very similar. What sets them apart is the when to use it and the skin type it is best suited to. Here’s a summary by skin type:

Oily or combination skin: soap + gel

Clean with the aloe vera soap (preserves the skin’s natural acidity without drying it out) and finishes with the pure gel as a light moisturiser that balances oily areas without weighing down the drier ones. In many cases, you won’t need anything else.

Dry or mature skin: soap + cream

After using the aloe vera soap, apply the serum-style gel to prepare the skin, and finish with the aloe vera cream as a nourishing moisturiser. In the evening, you can apply a more generous layer of the cream to make the most of the skin’s night-time regeneration process.

Sensitive skin: fragrance-free cream

Choose one high-concentration aloe vera cream with no added fragrance. Aloe vera from the Canary Islands is particularly suitable for sensitive skin due to its purity and the absence of additives. Cleanse with micellar water or a sulphate-free soap formulated with pure aloe.

The complete skincare routine featuring all three formats

• If you want to make the most of the benefits of aloe vera, combining these three formats results in one of the most comprehensive and natural routines you can follow:
• Step one: cleansing with aloe vera soap. Clears bacteria from the pores, removes make-up residue and reduces the appearance of spots. Rinse with water and pat dry gently.
• Step two: aloe vera gel as a toner or serum. AApply it to clean, slightly damp skin. Massage gently and leave on for 2 minutes. It helps with moisture retention, dryness and the treatment of dark spots.
• Step three: aloe vera cream as a final moisturiser. It builds on all the previous benefits and stimulates the production of collagen and elastin for greater firmness and elasticity. Perfect for dry and mature skin.

How do I know if the aloe vera product is of good quality?

• Check the percentage of aloe vera: Look for products containing at least 10% of aloe vera to ensure a sufficient concentration of its beneficial compounds. The best pure gels contain up to 99%.
• Avoid irritating ingredients: Ethyl alcohol, artificial fragrances and harsh preservatives can reduce the effectiveness of aloe and irritate the skin. Choose formulations that are as natural as possible.
• Look for a pure, high-quality extract: Terms such as «aloe vera leaf extract», «unprocessed aloe vera» or «pharmaceutical grade» are indicators of quality on the label.
• Guaranteed origin: Aloe vera from the Canary Islands is notable for being grown in a unique volcanic climate that increases its concentration of acemannan, the polysaccharide responsible for most of its therapeutic properties.

Aloe vera products from the Canary Islands

At Sam Parfums we have a exclusive aloe vera line thanks to the plant being grown and the product being packaged in the Canary Islands, which guarantees quality and exclusivity:

✦  Organic pure aloe vera gel 99%

✦  Moisturising cream with aloe vera

✦  Aloe vera soap

Find out much more at our Sam Parfums website and find the product that best cares for your skin.

Frequently asked questions about aloe vera gel, cream and soap

Can you use aloe vera gel on your face every day?

Yes, pure aloe vera gel is suitable for daily use. Its pH level, which is similar to that of the skin, makes it gentle and non-irritating. You can apply it morning and evening after cleansing your face, as a toner or serum.

Does aloe vera soap clean oily skin effectively?

Yes. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it ideal for acne-prone and oily skin. It cleanses the pores without irritating them and helps to reduce breakouts. Look for products with a high concentration of aloe and no harsh sulphates.

Is aloe vera cream good for dry skin?

It is one of the most suitable formulations for dry skin. The cream provides richer and longer-lasting hydration than the gel, stimulates collagen and locks in moisture in the skin’s outer layer for longer.

How long does opened aloe vera gel last?

Pure aloe vera gel without any added preservatives will keep for between 6 and 12 months after opening if stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. The Sam Parfums Canary Islands gel has an expiry date printed on the packaging.

Can I use aloe vera on my face if I have rosacea?

Yes, aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve the redness caused by rosacea. Choose a pure, fragrance-free gel and apply it gently. If your symptoms are severe, consult a dermatologist.