South Africa’s beauty scene in 2025 is a dazzling mix of bold creativity, skin-perfecting wizardry, and unfiltered glam – and these 20 influencers are leading the charge. Whether they’re serving impossible makeup transformations, dropping skincare truths, or redefining #hairgoals, they’ve got social media hooked. Ready to meet your new beauty obsession? Let’s dive in.
01. Grace Mondlana
TikTok Followers: 1,6M
Why Follow: This Johannesburg-based creator proves you don't need a fancy studio to serve looks - her dorm room makeup tutorials have become legendary among SA students. When she's not cramming for exams, you'll find Grace testing the latest skincare finds or documenting her travels with the enthusiasm of someone who just discovered selfie sticks. Her secret? Making even the messiest university life look Instagram-worthy.
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02. Adeola Mkhari
TikTok Followers: 601.6k
Why Follow: Adeola could probably install a wig blindfolded at this point - her hair transformation videos have made her TikTok famous. From quick protective styles to "how did she do that?" braiding techniques, she's become the go-to guru for anyone tired of bad hair days. Her videos often feature the universal struggle of making synthetic hair look natural - complete with the obligatory "this lace won't cooperate" eye rolls we all relate to.
03. Mihlali Ndamase
Instagram Followers: 2.3M
Why Follow: Mihlali didn't just enter the beauty scene - she redesigned it. This entrepreneur juggles running a beauty platform while somehow maintaining the most envied glow in Joburg. Her makeup tutorials often double as business masterclasses, proving you can contour your face and your career at the same time. That Forbes 30 Under 30 spot wasn't just handed to her - she probably winged her eyeliner while accepting the award.
04. Kay Yarms
Instagram Followers: 526k
Why Follow: Kay approaches skincare with the precision of a scientist and the honesty of your best friend. She's that rare influencer who'll admit when a viral product isn't worth the hype (and suggest affordable alternatives that actually work). Her "self-care Sunday" routines are less about expensive spa treatments and more about realistic rituals for actual humans with busy lives.
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05. Lavanya Wiles
Instagram Followers: 150k
Why Follow: Lavanya's makeup looks belong in art galleries - if galleries accepted submissions made with eyeshadow palettes. This Cape Town creative treats faces like canvases, creating looks that range from "wearable glam" to "did she glue actual flowers to her eyelids?" Her tutorials are equal parts inspiring and intimidating - in the best possible way.
06. Gcinile Twala
TikTok Followers: 475.5k
Why Follow: Gcinile proves motherhood and makeup artistry can coexist - even if it means doing contour with one hand while preventing a toddler meltdown with the other. Her content keeps it real, showing both flawless bridal looks and the occasional makeup mishap (because kids). She's basically the beauty equivalent of a superhero - if superheroes carried beauty blenders instead of capes.
07. Lerato Mthethwa
Instagram Followers: 496k
Why Follow: This somatologist-turned-style-icon makes loungewear look luxurious and skincare sound simple. Whether she's jetting off to exotic locations or just running errands in Sandton, Lerato maintains that effortless "I woke up like this" vibe (that we all know takes at least seven products to achieve).
08. Mich Mazibuko
TikTok Followers: 267.3k
Why Follow: Mich's TikTok is pure, unfiltered joy - like if your most energetic friend started a beauty channel. Her product reviews come with the kind of honest reactions brands probably dread ("This claims to be waterproof but my tears say otherwise"). She's the human equivalent of that first sip of coffee in the morning - energizing and slightly chaotic.
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09. Naledi Mallela
YouTube Followers: 196k
Why Follow: Naledi brings TV-host energy to every post, whether she's testing viral beauty hacks or sharing travel diaries. Her secret? Treating every video like she's gossiping with her besties rather than talking to a camera. That award-winning charm isn't just for television - it shines through in every relatable "why won't this eyeliner cooperate?" moment.
10. Mbali Sebapu
Instagram Followers: 669k
Why Follow: From military discipline to makeup brushes, Mbali's career shift is as inspiring as her cosmetics line. She approaches beauty with the same strategic thinking she learned in uniform - except now her mission is empowerment instead of operations. Her mentorship programs prove that makeup skills can be life-changing tools for confidence.
11. Xoli Gcabashe
Instagram Followers: 276k
Why Follow: Xoli is the beauty friend who tells it like it is - no sugarcoating, no filters. She'll call out overpriced products with the same energy most of us reserve for ranting about load shedding. Her content feels less like following an influencer and more like getting advice from your brutally honest older sister.
12. Luyanda Nkosi
Instagram Followers: 432k
Why Follow: Luyanda runs a beauty bar by day and serves looks by night - the ultimate multi-hyphenate. Her fashion posts prove style isn't about budget but how you work what you've got (though her AliExpress finds could fool anyone). She's basically living proof that confidence is the best accessory.
13. Lungile Thabethe
Instagram Followers: 490k
Why Follow: Lungile makes home renovation and highlighter application seem equally thrilling. One day she's demoing a bathroom, the next she's testing the latest foundation - all with the same infectious energy. Her DIY spirit will make you believe you too can tile a backsplash (or at least master winged liner).
14. Chulumanco Mbete
Instagram Followers: 337k
Why Follow: Chulu's Instagram is a masterclass in making everyday life look editorial. Whether she's sharing her 12-step skincare routine or just grabbing coffee, she maintains that effortless cool we all pretend to have. Her secret? Knowing exactly when to stop before a look goes from "chic" to "trying too hard."
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15. Ivone Numbi
Instagram Followers: 298k
Why Follow: Ivone approaches haircare like the art form it is - with patience, creativity, and the occasional frustrated sigh when styles don't cooperate. Her threading tutorials are oddly satisfying to watch, even if you'll never attempt them yourself. She's basically the fairy godmother of natural hair.
16. Paznee Lomberg
TikTok Followers: 352.1k
Why Follow: Paznee speaks the language of 4C hair like few others - complete with the universal frustrations of shrinkage and stubborn edges. Her styling hacks are life-changing for anyone who's ever fought with their curls. Follow her for the tips, stay for the relatable "why is my hair like this?" commentary.
17. Likho Nonyongo
TikTok Followers: 286.1k
Why Follow: Likho documents marriage, faith, and natural hair with refreshing honesty. Her content feels like catching up with an old friend - one who isn't afraid to show the real behind-the-scenes of adulting. Whether she's sharing hair wins or life lessons, she keeps it beautifully real.
18. Linese (Linspiration)
TikTok Followers: 785.3k
Why Follow: Linese's curl care tutorials should be required viewing for anyone with textured hair. She breaks down techniques with the patience of a preschool teacher and the expertise of a seasoned stylist. Her secret? Treating every curl like the unique masterpiece it is (even on its most rebellious days).
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19. Thato Sentle
TikTok Followers: 525.3k
Why Follow: Thato is on a mission to make men's grooming less intimidating and more accessible. His no-nonsense approach cuts through the marketing jargon to deliver practical advice actual guys will use. Think of him as the cool older brother who'll tell you to moisturize without making it weird.
20. Britney Savannah
Instagram Followers: 223k
Why Follow: Britney's makeup tutorials are so thorough they should come with college credits. She explains techniques with the clarity of someone who remembers what it's like to be a beginner (even though she can probably apply false lashes in her sleep now). Her channel is basically beauty school without the tuition fees.
Final Thought:
South Africa’s beauty scene isn’t just thriving—it’s thriving with flair. These 20 creators aren’t just applying makeup or styling hair—they’re building communities, breaking beauty myths, and turning everyday routines into art. Whether you're a die-hard skincare fan or still figuring out the difference between contour and bronzer, there’s someone on this list who’ll make you feel right at home.
And if you're a brand wondering, “Where do I even start?”—breathe easy. SocialBook is here to take the stress out of influencer discovery. Think less endless scrolling, more perfect matches. Because in the world of beauty (and marketing), the right fit makes all the difference.
To Explore more influencer insight, check the link here: https://socialbook.io/blog/tag/top-influencer-list/