Combination Skin Care

There are basically five skin types, dry, oily, normal, sensitive and combination. Combination skin is the most common skin type and it is also the most hard to take care of. People with combination skin, have a dry skin texture on their cheeks and jaw line and an oily T zone ( forehead, nose and chin). Very often separate skin care products are required to deal with the oily as well as the dry areas of the skin. Combination skin care products should include an oil free cleanser to be used on the T-zone which will get rid of excess sebum and tighten pores and a light moisturizer for the dry areas.

Skin Care Routine for Combination Skin

How to care for combination skin? The best way to take care of combination skin is to maintain a strict skin care regimen of cleansing, toning and moisturizing. The thing to remember, is that you will need two different types of cleansers to tackle the different needs of your skin. Use a gel based cleanser which is oil free for your forehead, nose and cheek area. Avoid using the same product on your cheeks, as it will dry out the delicate skin and make it prone to flaking. Use an antibacterial or deep pore cleanser during the summer to keep acne at bay. Some combination skin care products that you can try are Vichy Normaderm Anti-Imperfection Hydrating Care Moisturizer, Neutrogena Oil-Free Fresh Moisture Ultra-Light Moisturizer, La Roche-Posay Toleraine Purifying Foaming Cream Cleanser and Clinique Clarifying Lotion. Read more on care tips for combination skin.

Many people like to use a toner as it gives a very fresh feeling and also help to get rid of any dirt and grime that is still present after cleansing. Combination skin care is not complete without the application of a gentle oil free toner on your T-zone. Do not be over enthusiastic while using toner as less is more in the case of toning. Use a light non greasy moisturizer during the day. You may also choose from many special moisturizers that are designed for combination skin. Keep in mind that the dry areas of your face will require more frequent moisturizing to prevent it from drying out. Lastly apply a good oil free sunscreen of at least SPF 15 to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

Combination Skin Care Tips

Here are some tips on how to care for combination skin.

• Use a face wash that is gentle and does not leave your skin feeling too stretched out and dry. Opt for mild antibacterial gel based foaming cleansers to keep a check on facial breakouts and wash your face two to three times a day.
• Avoid beauty soaps as they have a high pH that tends to dry out skin and cause clogging of pores.
• Use a mild gentle toner that is free of alcohol on your T zone. Avoid using toner on your cheeks as it will cause the skin to flake. For a natural alternative, apply chilled rose water with the help of a cotton ball to refresh your skin.
• Do not skip on moisturizer if you have combination skin. Combination skin requires a light oil free moisturizer that should be applied throughout the day.
• Do not pile too much makeup on your skin if you have combination skin. Switch to mineral makeup, as it lets your skin breathe.
• Apply a face pack made with fullers earth and rose water every week to keep your skin fresh and oil free.
• If you have open pores, apply fresh tomato juice regularly to get rid of this problem.
• Only use skin care products that are fragrance free. Avoid products that have harsh chemicals as it can cause skin inflammation and blemishes.
• Avoid using heavy oil based foundation on your skin as it will clog your pores. Apply a good quality tinted moisturizer instead.
• Remove all traces of makeup from your face at night with the help of an organic makeup remover.
• If you are over 30, start applying a good eye gel to prevent wrinkling and puffy eyes.

So, we have seen that combination skin types requires special care and attention. Go for regular exfoliation and stick to your combination skin care routine to get glowing, flawless skin.