The Best Skincare Routine for Combination Skin: Advice from an Esthetician
If you're like most people, you have a tough time figuring out how to take care of your skin. Is it dry? Is it oily? What the heck is 'combination skin'? Don't worry, you're not alone. Combination skin is one of the most common types of skin and can be tricky to manage.
In this blog post, I'm going to talk about the best skincare routine for combination skin from my perspective as an esthetician and skincare expert. I'll explain what combination skin is, what causes it, and give you a step-by-step skincare routine that will help keep your complexion clear and healthy!
What is combination skin?
You probably have no idea what combination skin is. Well, let me explain. Combination skin is a type of skin that has two or more different types of skin on its face at the same time. For example, your forehead might be dry while your nose and chin are oily. Or maybe your cheeks are dry and your T-zone is oily. It’s pretty confusing, right?
But don’t worry, I’m here to help. As an esthetician, I see a lot of different types of skin and I know how to deal with each one.
What causes combination skin?
There are a few things that can cause combination skin. Genetics is one of the main causes because it can determine your sebum production, which is the skin’s natural oil.
Another cause is hormones. If you’re going through puberty or menopause, your hormone levels can change and that can cause your skin to become either dry or oily.
Last but not least, your environment can also affect your skin. If you live in a place with high humidity, that can cause your skin to produce more oil. Or if you live in a place with low humidity, that can cause your skin to become dry.
Other things that can cause combination skin are:
using the wrong skincare products
not drinking enough water
not eating a balanced diet
stress
So now that you know what combination skin is and what causes it, what can you do about it?
The best skincare routine for combination skin
The first step in any good skincare routine is a consultation. This is where you sit down with an esthetician and talk about your skin concerns. We’ll ask you questions about your diet, lifestyle, and current skincare routine. We’ll also take a close look at your skin to determine your skin type. This is important because knowing your skin type is the key to finding the right products for you.
If you have combination skin, the best thing you can do is find a skincare routine that targets both your dry and oily areas. This might seem like a daunting task, but it’s not that difficult. There are a few simple steps you can take to get started.
Morning routine:
Start with a gentle cleanser. This will help remove any dirt and oil build-up from the night before.
Apply a toner to help balance the pH of your skin.
If you have combination skin, it’s a good idea to use a serum that targets both areas. A serum with hyaluronic acid is a good option for dryness, while a serum with niacinamide can help control oiliness.
Follow up with a light moisturizer. This will help hydrate your skin without making it feel greasy.
Follow up with sunscreen. This is important for all skin types, but it’s especially important if you have combination skin. Using sunscreen will help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and it will also help keep your skin from getting too oily.
Evening routine:
Start with a makeup remover. This will help remove all of your makeup, including any waterproof or long-wearing products.
Follow up with a gentle cleanser. This will help remove any dirt and oil that has built up during the day.
Exfoliant. This step is important for combination skin because it will help remove any dead skin cells that can clog pores.
Serums are also a great option for your evening routine. Look for serums that target your specific skin concerns, such as wrinkles, dark spots, or dryness.
Finish with a moisturizer. This will help hydrate and nourish your skin overnight.
If you have any other questions about skincare routines for combination skin, feel free to schedule a skincare consultation with me.
Skincare products to use for combination skin:
If you have combination skin, you know that finding the right skincare products can be a bit of a challenge. There are so many different products on the market and it can be hard to know which ones will work for your skin type. But don't worry, I'm here to help!
Here are some of the best products for combination skin:
A gentle cleanser
Look for a cleanser that is non-drying and gentle on the skin. This will help to remove dirt and makeup without stripping away your natural oils.
Gentle Facial Wash
This foaming cleanser cleans deep into pores to remove dirt, oil and dead skin build up for more radiant skin.
• Deep Clean
• Minimizes Pores
• Reduce Pigmentation
• Purifies
A light moisturizer
Moisturize your skin with a light, oil-free lotion or gel. This will help to hydrate your skin without making it feel oily.
Daily Repair Mega-Moisture Cream
This lightweight but deeply hydrating cream repairs photo-damaged and environmentally stressed skin while fighting against acne causing bacteria.
• Moisturizes
• Increases Firmness
• Increases Elasticity
• Repairs
A mineral sunscreen
Use a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect your skin from the sun. These ingredients will help to reflect the sun's rays and prevent them from causing damage to your skin.
Photo-Age Sunscreen
An anti-aging moisturizer that incorporates FDA-approved broad spectrum SPF and hydrating skin protectants.
• Prevention
• Protects
• Anti-Aging
• Moisturizes
A mattifying primer
If you have combination skin, you probably have an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). To help control shine, use a mattifying primer on your T-zone before applying foundation.
An oil-free foundation
Choose an oil-free foundation or powder to help control shine and give you a matte finish.
A setting powder
To help keep your makeup in place, use a setting powder or spray on your T-zone after applying foundation.
Now that you know what products to use, let's talk about ingredients. When it comes to combination skin, there are certain ingredients that you should look for in your skincare products.
Ingredients to consider for combination skin:
Glycerin: This ingredient helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin. It can be found in both skincare and makeup products.
Salicylic acid: This ingredient helps to exfoliate the skin and control oil production. It can be found in cleansers, toners, and spot treatments.
Hyaluronic acid: This ingredient helps to hydrate and plump the skin. It can be found in serums, creams, and masks.
Niacinamide: This ingredient helps to reduce redness and inflammation. It can be found in serums, moisturizers, and foundations.
Read more: Salicylic Acid Benefits For Your Skin
Now that you know what products and ingredients to use, you can put together a skincare routine that will help to control oil and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.
Things you should avoid for combination skin:
If you have combination skin, the best skincare routine is one that is gentle and non-irritating. Be sure to use a gentle cleanser, scrub, or exfoliant, and avoid products that contain alcohol, fragrances, parabens, sulfates, or other harsh ingredients. In addition, avoid using products that strip the skin of its natural oils, as this can lead to dryness and irritation.
Conclusion
Combination skin can be a tough type of skin to have, but it doesn't mean you're out of luck when it comes to skincare. Combination Skin is one the most common types and there are some simple things we can do to make sure your complexion stays clear and healthy!
In this article, I've outlined what combination skin is, common causes, and a step-by-step skincare routine that is specific for this type. I've also included some of my favorite products to use on combination skin as well as things you should avoid to keep your skin looking its best!
If you're struggling with combination skin, don't worry, you're not alone. I'm Kim Gallo, an esthetician, and skincare expert in Naples, FL and I can help!
Book a skincare consultation with me today and let's get your skin on the right track!