Adventure At Your Fingertips

From Heritage to Haute Cuisine: What’s Cooking at The Good L...

The Good Life Show Johannesburg returns to the Sandton Convention Centre from the 18th to the 20th of September 2026, bringing together South Africa’s culinary talent for a weekend of indigenous ingredients, heritage recipes, healthy cooking, contemporary cuisine and creative pastry. At the heart of it all is the IMBO Theatre of Taste, where visitors can enjoy live demonstrations, gastronomic showcases and hands-on masterclasses while discovering new techniques, flavours and inspiration for their own kitchens.Meet the Culinary TalentBonolo Mataboge –celebrating African food and indigenous knowledgeKnown as Miss B The Most, Bonolo Mataboge is a creative, entrepreneur, former youth radio presenter, qualified copywriter and published author who uses her platforms to share indigenous African agricultural and food knowledge. Through African Marmalade, she makes indigenous knowledge more accessible across generations while highlighting its potential to strengthen rural and urban economies and connect traditional knowledge with the way people eat today.Chef Gregory Henderson –leading the wild food revolutionAn international award-winning wild and indigenous chef, Gregory Henderson is the founder of the Wild Food Revolution, launched during the pandemic, and has developed a culinary philosophy deeply rooted in foraging and conservation. His work explores how wild and indigenous resources can support the regeneration of ecosystems and communities while introducing diners to the remarkable flavours of the South African landscape.Chef Katlego Mlambo –bringing fine-dining expertise to the kitchenA Silwood School of Cookery graduate, Chef Katlego Mlambo has 15 years of experience working alongside some of South Africa’s leading chefs and is currently Executive Chef at The Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff. As a MasterChef South Africa judge, he brings a wealth of culinary knowledge and professional expertise to the show, offering visitors an insight into the precision and creativity behind contemporary cooking.Chef Naledi –putting healthy family cooking on the menuA qualified chef, culinary consultant, facilitator, assessor and moderator, Chef Naledi brings extensive experience in recipe development, menu development, culinary training and food education. Her approach focuses on creating great-tasting, nutritious food using everyday ingredients, offering practical inspiration for families who want to cook and eat well together.Chef Vusi Mbatha –bringing the spirit of the Kruger to the kitchenExecutive Chef of Kruger Shalati, Kruger Station and Kruger Untamed, Chef Vusi Mbatha brings more than 14 years of culinary experience and his distinctive Kruger to Fork philosophy to the show. His cooking celebrates indigenous ingredients, local producers and sustainable African cuisine, demonstrating how South Africa’s natural heritage can inspire modern gastronomy.Chef Wandi –an avant-garde take on African cuisineRepresenting Wandile Mabaso Group T/A Les Creatifs Restaurant, Chef Wandi brings an innovative perspective to contemporary African gastronomy through an avant-garde lens. His hands-on masterclass will explore creativity, technical precision and new approaches to African-inspired cooking while challenging conventional ideas of what African cuisine can be.Jared Melamed –pastry takes centre stageJared Melamed of La Tarte brings specialist pastry expertise to the culinary programme, showcasing the precision, creativity and craftsmanship behind exceptional pastry. Visitors will get an insight into the techniques required to transform simple ingredients into intricate and memorable creations.ReaTheCookingDietitian –making healthy eating deliciousRea Mokoko, better known as ReaTheCookingDietitian, is a registered dietitian who combines her passion for nutrition and practical cooking with her experience as a mother of three and dietitian for Mamelodi Sundowns. Her sessions will demonstrate how nutritious food can be accessible, practical and packed with flavour.Roxanne Read –taking mixology on a global journeyWith 17 years of experience in bartending and mixology, Roxanne Read has taken her craft from Melville to the Caribbean, bringing international experience and a passion for rum to the show. Her mixology masterclass will explore cocktails, spirits and professional bartending techniques, giving visitors inspiration to elevate their own drinks.Siphiwe Sithole –championing indigenous ingredients and African food heritageFounder of African Marmalade, Siphiwe Sithole is passionate about bringing underutilised African crops such as amaranth and bambara groundnuts back into the spotlight and onto modern plates. Her work connects indigenous food knowledge with sustainability, heritage and economic empowerment, highlighting the rich possibilities of Africa’s food systems.Solina Naidoo –traditional flavour with a modern twistFounder of award-winning South African spice brand Perima’s Kitchen, Solina Naidoo is the creator of the All-In-One Masala concept, which makes traditional Durban-inspired cooking simple and accessible. A recipe developer, entrepreneur and content creator, she will bring heritage, spice and practical inspiration to home cooks.Tshepo Pitjeng –inspiring the next generation of culinary talentFounder and Director of 411 Culinary School, Tshepo Pitjeng is a culinary entrepreneur dedicated to developing South Africa’s future chefs and hospitality professionals. His appearance will shine a spotlight on culinary education, skills development and the future of the country’s food and hospitality industry.Chef Zanele –bringing cookbook expertise to the kitchenChef and cookbook author Zanele van Zyl, appearing through Cooking with Zanele / Spekko, brings extensive experience as a chef, recipe developer and author to the culinary programme. With three cookbooks published by Penguin Random House, she is known for approachable recipes and practical cooking inspiration that visitors can recreate at home.IMBO Theatre of Taste MCMpho Sithole –bringing energy and insight to the IMBO Theatre of TasteMpho Sithole is a South African journalist, news anchor, media professional and entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience across television, radio and print. As the official MC of the IMBO Theatre of Taste, she will bring her warmth, experience and storytelling skills to the stage, guiding audiences through the programme of culinary demonstrations, conversations and tastings.For the full IMBO Theatre of Taste demo schedule, click here.Sharu Sobie, Marketing Manager at PepsiCo South Africa says: ‘’IMBO as a brand is all about giving people the edge through Every Day Good Eating. It has been wonderful partnering with The Good Life Show to bring education and inspiration to people in a really engaging way. We have received such wonderful feedback about the versatility of our range and the types of meals that can be created and elevated, as demonstrated by the incredible chefs over the three-day show. We can't wait to bring more of this amazing content to the next audience in Johannesburg.”The partnership reflects the event’s ethos of making good food accessible and encouraging people to explore new ingredients and flavours. With an exceptional line-up of chefs and culinary personalities taking to the stage, the IMBO Theatre of Taste promises an exciting opportunity to see some of South Africa’s food talent live in action, discover fresh ideas and experience the creativity behind the dishes.The Good Life Show Johannesburg takes place from 18–20 September 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre.Event DetailsDates: Friday, 18 September to Sunday, 20 September 2026Opening times:Friday: 10:00–18:00Saturday: 10:00–18:00Sunday: 10:00–16:00Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude Street, Sandown, SandtonTickets: Adults R150 online or R170 at the door; two-day passes R230 online or R260 at the door; pensioners R120 online or R130 at the door; youth aged 12–16 R50; children under 12 enter freeBookings: Book through the official Quicket page.More information: The Good Life ShowTrade visitor entry: Professionals working in retail, hospitality, food service, distribution, procurement, and related industries can register for free entry on Friday, 18 September 2026. Advance registration is required. Register as a trade visitor.Exhibitor enquiries: Brands, producers, suppliers, and businesses interested in exhibiting can find further information and submit an enquiry through the Good Life Show exhibitor page.

Why Gel Formulas Suit Oily and Acne Prone Skin

Oily skin can feel shiny, sticky, or congested as the day goes on. Acne prone skin may also feel uncomfortable when skincare textures are too rich or heavy. This makes formulation and texture important parts of everyday product choice.Gel formats often feel lighter and settle more easily on the skin. This guide looks at skin feel, sebum, hydration, pores, formulation, and climate. It also explains how these factors affect routine comfort for oily and acne prone skin.Why Lightweight Gel Formulas Can Suit Oily and Acne Prone SkinThin Texture and Lower ResidueGel formulas usually spread in a thin layer and leave less heavy residue than richer textures. This lighter feel can be more comfortable when skin already looks shiny or congested. Faster dry down also helps the formula settle without leaving a thick layer on the surface.For oily or acne prone skin, tretinoin gels can feel lighter because gel textures spread thinly and leave less residue. This finish can also make moisturizer and sunscreen easier to layer.Matte Finish Is Not the Same as Oil ControlA matte finish describes how a formula looks and feels after application. Sebum is the oil produced by sebaceous glands. A gel may feel less greasy without reducing sebum production. This is why a matte finish does not automatically mean better oil control.Oily Skin vs Acne Prone Skin: Why the Difference MattersOily skin produces more visible sebum, which can make the face look shiny during the day. Acne prone skin behaves differently because pores are more likely to become clogged and develop breakouts.The two concerns often overlap, but one does not always mean the other. Sebum can mix with dead skin cells inside follicles and block the pore opening. These blockages may appear as blackheads or whiteheads and can become inflamed.The Dermatological Society of South Africa explains this link between excess sebum, dead skin cells, and clogged follicles. Understanding this difference helps separate skin oiliness from a tendency to develop acne.Gel vs Cream for Oily Skin: Texture, Finish and ClimateGel and cream formulas can feel different even when they serve a similar skincare purpose.FeatureGel FormulaCream FormulaTextureThin and lightRicher and thickerFinishOften lighter or matterUsually more cushionedResidueOften less noticeableCan feel more noticeableHydration styleOften water focusedUsually more emollientSkin preferenceOften oily or combinationOften dry or easily tightNeither texture is automatically better for every skin type. On tretinoins.co.za, gel and cream formats show how texture can shape skin comfort. A lighter gel may suit oily skin, while a richer cream may feel better on drier areas. Creams do not always clog pores, and gels do not always suit acne prone skin. The complete formula and skin response still matter.South Africa has warm, humid, cool, and dry conditions across different regions. Lighter textures may feel better in heat. Colder or drier weather may increase the need for moisture.Why Oily Skin Still Needs Hydration and Barrier SupportSebum and Hydration Are DifferentSebum is the oil produced by the skin, while hydration refers to water within the outer skin layers. Oily skin can still feel tight, dehydrated, or uncomfortable despite visible shine. Shine alone does not show whether the skin has enough water.Ingredients That Support MoistureHumectants help attract water and support hydration. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid are common humectants used in lightweight formulas. Ceramides help support the skin barrier and limit moisture loss.These ingredients can help oily skin feel comfortable without creating a rich or heavy finish. Lightweight gel formulas can therefore supply moisture while keeping the overall texture light. This can matter when richer products feel uncomfortable during warm or humid conditions. The complete formula still matters because not every gel provides the same level of hydration.What to Check Beyond the Word “Gel”Full ingredient list: Texture alone does not decide whether a formula suits oily or acne prone skin.Hydrating ingredients: Humectants and barrier supporting ingredients can help maintain moisture without adding a heavy feel.Skin comfort: Burning, persistent tightness, or redness can signal that the formula feels too harsh.Non comedogenic wording: This label can be useful, but it cannot guarantee the same response for everyone.Alcohol and fragrance: Some formulas may feel drying or irritating, especially on reactive skin.Finish: Choose a comfortable texture instead of chasing the driest or most matte result.Cleansing, Moisture and Sun Protection for Oily SkinGentle CleansingUse a mild cleanser to remove sweat, surface oil, sunscreen, and daily build up. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can leave oily or acne prone skin feeling uncomfortable. Repeated washing just to remove shine can also increase dryness and irritation.Lightweight MoistureChoose lightweight hydration according to how the skin feels. Oily skin still needs moisture and does not need to feel dry throughout the day. Gel textures can provide a lighter option when richer formulas feel too heavy.Daytime Sun ProtectionThe Cancer Association of South Africa, CANSA, recommends broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB. Sunscreen should therefore remain part of a simple daytime skincare routine.Common Mistakes With Gel Skincare on Oily SkinCommon mistakes often come from choosing texture before considering how the full formula behaves.Assuming every gel is non comedogenic.Choosing the driest formula because the skin looks shiny.Expecting a matte finish to reduce sebum.Washing the face whenever shine appears.Skipping moisturizer because the skin feels oily.Ignoring tightness, burning, or persistent irritation.Using several strong skincare ingredients together.Expecting one texture to work all year.Choosing a product only because the label says gel.The complete formula and skin response should guide the final choice.Frequently Asked QuestionsAre gel formulas always water based?Many gel formulas use water rich bases, but this is not universal. The complete ingredient list gives a clearer picture.Can a gel still clog pores?Yes. A gel texture does not guarantee that every formula will suit acne prone skin. Individual skin response also matters.Does a matte gel mean the skin is producing less oil?No. A matte finish describes how the product looks and feels. Sebaceous glands control how much sebum the skin produces.Can combination skin use gel formulas?Yes. A light gel may feel comfortable on oily areas. Drier areas may need more moisture or a richer texture.Can gel skincare feel different across South African seasons?Yes. Heat and humidity can make lighter textures feel comfortable. Cooler or drier conditions may increase the skin’s moisture needs.ConclusionGel formulas can feel lighter on oily and acne prone skin without leaving a heavy finish. However, a matte texture does not automatically reduce sebum or prevent clogged pores. Hydration, skin barrier condition, climate, and the complete formula still matter. The best texture is one that feels comfortable and suits the skin’s response.

Jack White Is Coming To Johannesburg This December

Jack White is coming to Johannesburg this December for a night that rock fans won't want to miss. The Grammy Award-winning musician, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist will take to the stage at The Old Park Station in Newtown on Friday, 11 December 2026, marking his first-ever live performance in South Africa.Presented by BreakOut Events, the Johannesburg show forms part of Jack White's first South African tour, with a second performance taking place at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town on Monday, 14 December. For local fans, this is a chance to experience Jack White's acclaimed live show right here in Joburg, with music spanning his work with The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, The Dead Weather and his solo career.Jack White Is Coming To JohannesburgJack White has built a career around raw guitar playing, distinctive vocals and an approach to rock music that has rarely followed the expected path. The Johannesburg performance will draw from Jack White's work with The White Stripes, The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather, alongside his acclaimed solo career.Fans can also expect material from Jack White's latest studio album, Frozen Charlotte. Released as his seventh studio album, the record continues Jack White's exploration of blues, rock, garage, punk, folk and experimental sounds, while retaining the energetic style that has become a defining part of his music.From The White Stripes To A Solo CareerFor many fans, Jack White first became a household name through The White Stripes, the duo he formed with Meg White. Their stripped-back, blues-influenced take on rock became one of the defining sounds of the 2000s, while their distinctive visual style helped establish the band as one of the era's most recognisable acts.Jack White later expanded his musical career through The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather before establishing himself as a successful solo artist. His solo albums include Blunderbuss, Lazaretto, Boarding House Reach, Fear of the Dawn, Entering Heaven Alive and No Name.Jack White's live shows have become known for their intensity, spontaneity and musicianship, with setlists that can move between his solo catalogue and songs from the bands that helped shape his career.Hear Songs From Frozen CharlotteJack White unveiled Frozen Charlotte in July, alongside the new single “Neighbors Blues”. The album features 13 new tracks and was produced and mixed by Jack White at Third Man Studio in Nashville.The new album follows No Name, Jack White's sixth studio album, continuing his reputation for constantly evolving his sound rather than sticking to one particular version of rock. The South African shows will give audiences the chance to hear this newer material alongside songs from across Jack White's career.More Than A MusicianJack White's influence also extends beyond performing and songwriting. He founded Third Man Records, an independent record label, recording studio and creative enterprise that has become closely associated with vinyl culture, analogue recording and independent music.Over the years, Jack White's work as a producer, collaborator and label founder has also helped champion different artists and musical traditions. Alongside multiple Grammy Awards and widespread critical recognition, this has cemented Jack White's reputation as one of rock music's more distinctive modern figures.Jack White Live In JohannesburgThe Johannesburg show takes place at The Old Park Station in Newtown on Friday, 11 December 2026. The event runs from 17:00 to 23:00, giving fans an evening of live rock music in the heart of the city.General public ticket sales open at 09:00 on Wednesday, 9 September 2026 via Webtickets, while a Laylo presale opens on Tuesday, 8 September at 10:00 SAST.Children under five are not permitted, while under-18s must be accompanied by a responsible parent or guardian.South Africa, Get ReadyFor fans who have followed Jack White's career from The White Stripes through The Raconteurs, The Dead Weather and his solo work, this is a chance to finally see Jack White perform live on South African soil.With a career spanning more than two decades, a new album to showcase and a reputation for energetic live performances, Jack White's Johannesburg debut is shaping up to be a big night for rock fans.Event DetailsDate: Friday, 11 December 2026Time: 17:00 - 23:00Venue: The Old Park StationAddress: 140 Carr Street, Newtown, Johannesburg, 2000Tickets: Available via WebticketsGeneral sales: Wednesday, 9 September 2026 at 09:00Laylo presale: Tuesday, 8 September 2026 at 10:00 SASTAge restriction: No under-5s. Under-18s must be accompanied by a responsible parent or guardian.Get Ready For A Night Of RockWith Jack White performing live at The Old Park Station, this is set to be a memorable night for Johannesburg's rock fans. Whether you're a longtime fan or simply looking for a great live music experience, this is one to add to your December plans.See you in Newtown!