Aloe vera gel is light, watery and cooling, so it suits skin that feels hot or uncomfortable and works well as a first layer. An aloe cream adds oils that help hold moisture in, so it suits skin that feels dry, tight or rough. Many people with dry, sensitive skin use both: the gel first, then the cream on top.
What is the difference between an aloe gel and an aloe cream?
The difference is mostly about oil. A gel is water-based and contains little or no oil, which is why it feels light, absorbs quickly and leaves a cool feeling on the skin. A cream is a blend of oil and water: as well as adding moisture, the oils form a thin protective layer on the skin’s surface that helps trap moisture in (Guy’s and St Thomas’).
| Aloe vera gel | Aloe cream | |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Light, watery, absorbs fast | Richer, more cushioning |
| Feel | Cooling and refreshing | Softening and comforting |
| Best for | Skin that feels hot or uncomfortable; light hydration | Dry, tight or rough skin |
| When | Warm days, after sun, as a first layer | Daily, in winter and overnight |
When to choose an aloe vera gel
- Skin that feels hot or uncomfortable, for example after time in the sun.
- Light hydration for skin that does not like heavier textures.
- Warm weather, when a cream can feel too much.
- A first layer under a richer moisturiser on very dry skin.
On its own, a gel is not very rich, so it is rarely enough for skin that is properly dry. Our guide is aloe vera a good moisturiser? explains why.
When to choose an aloe cream
- Dry, tight or rough skin that needs moisture held in, not just added.
- Winter, when cold air and central heating dry the skin more.
- Overnight, when a richer layer has longer to work.
- Larger areas of the body, such as legs and arms.
How to use both together
- Apply the gel to clean skin and let it absorb for a minute or two.
- Smooth a thin layer of cream on top – smoothing rather than rubbing is kinder to sensitive skin.
- Repeat whenever your skin feels dry.
Tip: keeping the gel in the fridge makes it feel even more cooling.
Our gel and our cream
Pure Aloe Vera Gel – aloe vera leaf juice is its first ingredient, with no added fragrance. A light, cooling gel for skin that feels hot, dry or uncomfortable. 50 ml £7.99 · 150 ml £15.95.
Superderm – our rich yet fast-absorbing aloe cream with olive-derived squalane, shea butter and vitamin E, to help restore hydration and support the skin barrier. Contains a light fragrance. Airless 50 ml £9.99 · 150 ml £24.99.
What to check on the label
- Where aloe appears. Ingredients are listed roughly in order of quantity, so look for “Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice” near the top if aloe is what you are paying for.
- Fragrance. If perfumed products have irritated your skin before, check for “Parfum” or “Fragrance”.
- A short list. For sensitive skin, fewer ingredients means fewer things that could disagree with you.
Whichever you choose, patch test it first if your skin is very reactive. For more ideas on caring for reactive skin, visit our sensitive skin page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use aloe vera gel instead of a moisturiser?
If your skin is only slightly dry, a gel may be enough, especially in warm weather. For dry skin, it works better under a cream, which helps hold moisture in.
Is aloe vera gel good for sensitive skin?
Many people with sensitive skin find a simple aloe gel gentle and comfortable. As with any new product, patch test it first and stop if it stings, itches or makes your skin sore.
Can I use aloe vera gel on my face every day?
Yes, if it suits your skin. Use it on clean skin, morning or evening, and follow with a cream if your face feels tight.
Should I apply the gel or the cream first?
Gel first, then cream. The lighter, water-based layer goes on underneath and the richer layer on top.
