Stop blaming genetics on your combination skin and start taking care of your condition by adopting a skincare routine for it. Skincare for combination skin is possible, albeit a little tedious, and requires some experimentation. In fact, physical stress and hormonal changes can agitate your skin too, so pay some attention to that. Stay on this page if you want more details on building a skincare routine for combination skin.
Start with a Gentle Cleanser
It’s important to start any skincare cycle with cleansing. In the case of combination skin, choose a gentle cleanser that will not strip your dry skin areas of natural oils. Do not purchase cleansers that tackle dry or oily skin types. Instead, use a mild, water-soluble facial soap. If you prefer, you can also just apply soap to your forehead, nose, and chin, otherwise known as T-zone, in the morning and wash the rest of your face with warm water.
Try a Water-Based Gel Exfoliator
While you should not go overboard with exfoliating, it’s still a must-do step at least once a week to remove the build-up of dead skin cells. We recommend using a water-based gel exfoliator compared to physical and chemical exfoliants. This hybrid exfoliator has the best of everything. Folks with acne-prone skin should definitely heed this advice, as unnecessary abrasions caused by physical exfoliants can aggravate and worsen the redness. You should also avoid scrubs and brushes too.
Balance Your Skin’s pH Levels with a Natural Toner
Cleaning and exfoliating can upset the delicate pH balance of your skin, that’s why there’s a need to use a toner. However, as with combination skin types, it’s advisable to pick a natural toner with no added dyes and fragrances.
If you suffer from dry and oily combination skin types on both your face and body, you can consider trying Cure’s Bathtime Mineral Salts. This versatile product contains 100% Natural Himalayan Ruby Rock Salt, and when dissolved in warm water, can be used on your entire body.
Target the Different Zones with Light and Heavy Moisturizers
With a little experimentation, you should be able to find the right products that work for your skin. Since only your T-zone would be oily, and the rest of your skin is dry, target the different areas with light and heavy moisturizers.
You can apply a thin layer of water-based moisturizer and then top up the parched spaces with a cream-based soothing one. Alternatively, you can also begin with a water-based moisturizer first to see how your skin reacts. Where applicable, glide a more nourishing lotion over.
Slab on Enough Sunscreen and Reapply Every Two to Three Hours
Have you heard about the sunscreen test for combination skin? Those with combination skin types often have to deal with greasiness on their T-zones when applying sunscreen. In particular, it shows up shiny, which can be an embarrassing moment for some.
The key here is to look for a lightweight sunblock with a matte finish. This will minimize the shine on your T-zone and at the same time, protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Remember to reapply every two to three hours!
You may get frustrated when products you’ve purchased don’t work as you had hoped. Be patient, eventually, you’ll find a suitable set for your combination skin. Be consistent in your skincare routine and your skin will thank you in the long run.