Best Skincare Routine for Combination Skin in Daily Routine

Skin Care Routine For Combination Skin

No matter where your skin falls on the skincare scale, chances are you have a good idea of which category you’re in. You can find out more about your skin type by choosing cleansers, toners, and moisturizers and assessing your skin to see which ones work best for you, whether you have oily, combination, dry, or acne-prone skin. If you have discovered that your skin is both oily and dry, you likely have combination skin.

Choosing the ideal products to care for combination skin can be a bit daunting since your skin has dry areas as well as areas that produce too much oil. This can make the search for skincare for combination skin a bit complicated. Skincare experts even state that over time, everyone can exhibit signs of combination skin even if this is not their normal skin type.

Beauty experts agree that sticking to skin-type products may be easier said than done. Renee Rouleau, celebrity esthetician, says that in her 30 years in the business, there are likely closer to nine skin types. This means that everyone’s combination skin isn’t the same and you’ll need to find a customized routine that works to protect and improve your skin.

Even though it probably won’t be easy, you can find a skin care routine for combination skin that will soften and moisturize dry patches while magnifying oily areas. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind.

The Definition of Combination Skin

Board-certified dermatologist and aesthetic expert Dr. Kavita Mariwalla states that it’s normal to have combination skin, and that other skin types are normal as well. Of course, the difference with combination skin is that some parts of your skin are oily and others need moisture. Dr. Mariwalla asserts that people with combination skin commonly have dry cheeks and an oily T-zone.

Combination skin essentially means that your skin shows characteristics of several skin types. Licensed esthetician Lily Njoroge of Skin Wins says that humans have four main skin types: oily, dry, normal, and combination. If you have combination skin, this means that you exhibit one or more of the other skin types. You’ll likely be oily in your t-zone or butterfly zone and dry around the mouth and chin area. This is often due to the lack of oil glands on the lips which is why it’s common to have dry lips when the weather is especially cold or warm. Njoroge says that she commonly treats customers who have oily or normal skin and shares that many individuals who have acne will have overactive sebaceous glands on specific areas of the face. However, other areas of the complexion don’t produce extra oil but aren’t dry, which means these parts of the skin are considered “normal.”

Rouleau says that combination skin shouldn’t be classified as a condition. If you have combination skin, that doesn’t mean that you’ll have other skin conditions. The term “combination skin” simply refers to the amount of oil production on your face. However, having this type of skin doesn’t mean that you’re more prone to discoloration, acne, rosacea, loss of skin tone, or eczema.

If this describes your skin, Rouleau says that you should evaluate your skin before deeming your skin “problematic.” She asserts that combination skin isn’t a pressing concern but will indicate how much oil your skin produces. This will help you make decisions about how to moisturize your skin, the ingredients in your skincare products, and which cleansers you should use.

Does Everyone Have Combination Skin to Some Degree?

Even though Rouleau shares that there are several people whose faces are mildly oily or not oily at all, which means they have normal or dry skin, other observations from skincare experts say that it’s hard to determine whether these people have combination skin. For example, Njoroge states that she’s seen some many people with so many combinations of skin types that she feels that, to some degree, everyone has combination skin. Njoroge says that it’s rare to treat clients whose complexions are completely dry or completely oily. She also asserts that a person’s skin type may change over the years for a variety of reasons so there are times when a person’s complexion is classified as “combination” and times when it is not. Since the condition of the skin is fluid, it’s pretty safe to say that most people actually do have combination skin or will have this skin type at some point in their lives.

Factors like stress can affect the condition of the skin. Due to stress, someone who usually have normal skin may find that their skin is producing more oil. This is because the corticotrophin-releasing hormone or CHR is make the sebaceous glands especially active during stressful times. A change in skin type will prompt people to purchase new products for their skincare routine, but they may not need those products in a few months when their skin routine returns to its default type.

Most skincare agree that most skin types are fluctuating. However, it’s important to keep in mind that combination skin is often associated with criticism. Many skincare experts and dermatologists don’t push the theory of combination skin to their patients or clients. Instead, they classify skin on a dry-to-oily spectrum according to Sameer Bashey, MD, FAAD. Rouleau also share that changes in the environment such as the seasons or climate in your area have an impact on the condition of your skin as well. During the summer, your skin may produce more oil and your tend will likely be significantly drier in the winter. This is why you need a lighter, water-based moisturizer in summer and a heavier, oil-based moisturizer for the winter months.

What Causes Combination Skin?

Skincare experts and medical professionals say that there isn’t a reason that combination skin occurs per se. Your genetics will determine whether or not your skin is combination. However, your skin type will change based on your hormone levels and shifts in the seasons, according to Mariwalla.

In some cases, our skin will become drier with age due to the hormonal changes our bodies go through. Other hormone-related reasons for the change in skin type include menstrual cycles and taking birth control pills and other contraceptives.

Signs of Combination Skin

A mixture of dry and oil sky can show up in a variety of ways and at different intensities throughout your life. There’s no standard for how combination skin should feel and look and there are no percentages for how much of your skin should be dry and how much should be oily for your skin to be considered “combination.” It’s important to pay attention to your skin to figure out what having a combination complexion means to you.

Here are some indications that your skin is oily:

-a shiny complexion
-pores that are noticeably large
-acne

Symptoms of dry skin include:

-flaky skin
-a rough or tight sensation
-redness

Caring for Combination Skin

A combination skin care regimen will be a little different than caring for oily, dry, or acne-prone skin. If you have combination skin, it’s important to choose gentle products that won’t dry your skin. You also need moisturizers that will balance your complexions moisture levels without prompting your skin to produce more oil which will clog your pores. You should also look for products that treat any specific skin issues you have such as hormonal breakouts, rosacea, or eczema.

Three Main Steps for Combination Skin Care

When you have combination skin, your regimen should consist of three steps: cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. Be sure to wash your face thoroughly, tone your complexion to balance the skin, and moisturize to keep your skin hydrated and soft. The goal of your skincare routine is to improve your complexion and keep your skin functioning healthily. The right products will also help to treat certain problem areas on your skin.

San Fransisco-based skincare specialist Kristina Holey says that your skincare routine is a chance to notice any changes in your skin. Your skin will change as you age which means the products you use on your skin should change as well. Holey also shares that the goal isn’t to have perfect skin but to make sure your skin is as healthy as possible. The three major steps of your routine should make your skin look radiant and can even set the tone for your day.

The science that backs many skincare products have advanced significantly. However, there’s still no quick fix to glowing skin. Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a Manhattan dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, says that it’s important to give your skin time to reap the benefits of the products you’re using. Dr. Nazarian shares that you have to be consistent if you want to see positive changes in your skin. You should usually see results in about six weeks once or twice a day before you start seeing a difference in your complexion.

Remember to Be Balanced

Balance is important when it comes to combination skin care. You need a balance of moisture and dryness for your skin to be healthy. No matter what skin type you have, a basic skin care regimen is ideal for making sure your skin stays in great condition. Whether your skin is naturally dry or you’re oily in some areas, your complexion will benefit from regular cleansing, toning, and exfoliating. Following these steps for your skin regularly can balance the amount of oil your skin produces, protect your skin’s barriers and prompt your skin to naturally produce new skin cells. Rouleau shares that water-based hydration is best for combination skin since it helps the skin maintain a healthy glow without clogging pores.

-Morninzg routine

These are some of the products that will keep your combination skin looking its best:
Cleanser, which you should use daily to remove toxic buildup and makeup
Toner, which is essential for removing oil that your cleanser couldn’t remove. The toner should be alcohol-free so it won’t be too harsh on your skin.
Serum, which are essential for hydrating the protecting the skin. Your serum should have hyaluronic acid if you have combination skin.
Moisturizer, especially one that is formulated for combination skin. It’s also a good idea to get two moisturizers — one for the oilier areas of your face and one for the dry areas. The moisturizers should be water-based and have an SPF of at least 30.

-Evening routine

In the evening, use a makeup remover to get rid of makeup and excess oil that has settled on your face during the day. This helps to keep your pores clean so your makeup will go on smoothly the next time you apply it. Try Micellar water if you’re looking for a gentle yet effective makeup remover.

Next, it’s time for cleanser. Select a nighttime cleanser that will get rid of natural buildup and remnants of makeup.

Then, you exfoliate. You should only do this step once a week for combination skin t remove dead skin cells and keep your pores free of debris.

You should also use a face mask at least once a week. Choose masks based on your skin’s needs, such as acne treatment masks, masks that tone the skin, and masks that add more moisture to your complexion.

Serum or moisturizer should be the last step in your nighttime routine. Choose a stronger moisturizer to nourish your face while you sleep and help get rid of fine lines so you’ll wake up looking refreshed.

Don’t Go Overboard with Active Ingredients

The ingredients in the skincare products you choose can impact your skin type. Njoroge states that this happens more often than we think. She has served several clients that have manipulated their skin type without knowing it. Overusing certain active ingredients can make the skin too dry. When the skin is overly dry, the sebaceous glands will start producing more oil to protect the skin. Your skin may also have this reaction if you exfoliate too often. If you’re not sure whether a toner, cleanser, moisturizer, or exfoliant is safe for your skin, check with a professional to see which active ingredients are suitable for combination skin.

Your Skin Changes As You Age

Your skincare routine should evolve as you age to address concerns like dull skin, age spots, and fine lines. You may lose volume in your skin as you age and your hormone levels will change when you get older which could make your skin oilier or drier. This means you may need to change your cleanser, moisturizer, or toner every few years to make sure your skin continues to be its healthiest.

Ask a Professional for Guidance

If you’re not sure which products are safe for you, Bashey says you should ask a professional for assistance. If you start to see excess oiliness or dryness on your skin at home, make an appointment with your dermatologist or aesthetician to have your skin assessed. You may be dealing with an underlying skin condition like eczema or rosacea.

For Acne-Prone Skin

If you have combination skin and breakouts, use a salicylic acid cleanser. If you wear makeup during the day, double-cleanse your skin at night. Use a toner with salicylic acid to combat blemishes and blackheads.

Anti-Aging Treatments

When you need a skincare routine for mature skin, you’ll likely want to focus on firming the skin and remove fine lines while fading dark spots. Don’t forget to care for your neck when it comes to cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. Be sure to use sunscreen and exfoliant on your neck as well. Choose a gentler exfoliant as you age, since it’s natural for the skin to become more sensitive.

If You Have Dry Skin

Hydrate your skin thoroughly. Use a moisturizer with humectants and emollients and drink plenty of water to reduce the patches on your dry skin.

Ideal Products for Combination Skin

There are several skincare products on the market that promise several benefits. It’s best to research the products you’re interested in to see which products are actually best for your skin.

Mariwalla says it’s best to steer clear of products that serve the same purpose such as putting retinoids and acids together to clarify your skin. However, you should use antioxidant treatments and sunscreens together to prevent sun damage and premature aging.

It’s best to have separate morning and nighttime routines for your skin if you have both oily and dry skin. You don’t have to use every product every time you cleanse, tone, moisturize, or exfoliate your skin. For example, if most of your face is dry but your t-zone is oily, apply exfoliant acids to your t-zone only, and only apply these treatments at night.

Mariwalla suggests using micellar water and hydrating cleansers to remove your makeup and cleanse your skin. Lightweight moisturizers are also ideal for hydrating the skin and can be worn alone or under makeup.

Here are some ingredients to look for in your skincare products:
-hyaluronic acid, which is ideal for the face since it hydrates without leaving a greasy film
-salicylic acid to reduce and balance oil production and cleanse your pores
-lactic acid, a mild exfoliant that gets rid of dead skin cells to clear your pores and prevent flaky skin
-emollients like coconut oil and shea butter to soften the skin
-antioxidants like vitamin C for overall skin health and protect from environmental damage

Some of the Best General Products for Combination Skin

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel is free of soap and oil and will effectively cleanse your skin of oil and dirt while maintaining your skin’s pH balance.


CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser deep-cleans your pores to maintains your skin’s natural barrier. This product won’t clog your pores or irritation your skin since it free of fragrance.

Honest Clearing Cleanser throughly cleans the skin, reduces the look of large pores, and helps fight current and future breakouts.

Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum from Neutrogena won’t clog your pores and it’s oil-free. This moisturizer has hyaluronic acid to make your skin glow.

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 from The Ordinary is a water-based formula to hydrate several layers of your skin.

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment is an effective exfoliant that gives you a radiant glow. This product is also ideal for treating hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

REN Clean Skincare Vita Mineral Emollient Rescue Cream can instantly moisturize your skin and protect your complexion from redness and dehydration.

Unseen Sunscreen from Supergoop! has SPF 40 and is fragrance free and weightless to shield your skin from the sun and protect you from photo aging.


Bioderma Sebium H20 Purifying Cleansing Micelle Solution effectively removes makeup, cleanses your skin and clarifies combination to oily skin.

Mega Greens Galaxy Pack from Glossier is a face mask that detoxifies your skin and makes it easier for your skin to minimize excess oil production to nourish your skin and minimize the appearance of your pores.

Korean Skincare

If you have oily areas of your skin, dry patches, and large pores, a Korean skincare routine could be beneficial for you.

Ohlolly Korean Skincare Kit formulated for Combination Skin features nine products that are designed just for your skin type to thoroughly cleanse, balance moisture, and help you maintain a youthful glow.

Try Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Cream EX to hydrate your skin and provide antioxidants to the skin from green tea. This product can nourish the skin while balancing your moisture levels.

Natural Skincare Product Suggestions

Herbivore Natural Jasmine Green Tea Balancing Toner features food-grade organic ingredients that are cruelty-free and paragon-free. This toner is safe to use every day and is made in small batches to ensure freshness.

Original Loose Powder Foundation from bareMinerals has SPF 15 and is a natural and clean alternative to traditional makeup that can make your skin healthier.

You can also try Truskin Vitamin C Facial Serum which features a mixture of vitamin C and vitamin E, along with botanical hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, and witch hazel. There are no synthetic fragrances or colors in this product and it will help combat signs of premature aging.

DIY Ideas for Combination Skin

Toner

The green tea in the toner will combat acne and redness and the apple cider vinegar will balance your complexions pH levels.

For this treatment, you’ll need one part apple cider vinegar and one part green tea.
Mix the ingredients and spray them onto your skin with a spray bottle or use a cotton ball to spread the mixture onto your face. Gently pat with your fingertips for maximum absorption.

DIY Hydrating Mask

This homemade face mask will hydrate the dry areas of your skin. Honey is a natural humectant and will help your skin retain moisture without making it feel too oily.

For this mask, you’ll need half of an avocado, a tablespoon of honey and a handful of oats.

Apply the mixture on a clean face and let the mask set for 15 minutes before thoroughly rinsing it off with warm water.

The bottom line

When it comes to combination skin, finding the right skin care routine can be tricky. It may take a bit of time to find the right combination.

However, using the best products in the right areas should create the best possible outcome for your skin.

You should always consult a dermatologist if you have any questions or concerns.

Great skin is not simply a matter of DNA — your daily habits, in fact, have a big impact on what you see in the mirror. But depending on which product reviews you read or doctors you consult, there is a dizzying number of opinions on everything from how to moisturize to how to protect yourself from UV rays. Ultimately, caring for your skin is simply personal. Here’s what you should keep in mind to sort through all the noise.

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