Issue 5: Combination Skin
Welcome to issue 5 of the “Know Your Skin Type” series, and the focus is an interesting skin type that is combination skin. As the name suggests it is phenomenon where an individual has more than one skin type (dry, oily, sensitive and normal).
Definition
Generally, the term combination skin is used to refer to the manifestation of more than one skin type on the face. The most prevalent is an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and cheeks) and dry cheeks. In this case, the skincare regimen is an intricate balance of oil-control on the T-zone and adequate moisturization of the cheeks.
How do I know that my skin type is combination?
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, pat it dry, and wait 30 minutes to an hour. Assess your skin’s feel and appearance.
- Dry skin will feel tight, rough, or flaky, with no visible oil production. You can also use a tissue to gently blot your face; minimal or no oil on the tissue suggests dry skin.
- If a part of your body is shiny, you likely have oily skin. Press blotting paper against different areas of your face. If the paper becomes saturated with oil quickly, especially in the T-zone, you likely have oily skin.
- If a part of the face feels itchy and irritated, then you have sensitive skin.
- Normal skin feels comfortable, hydrated, and supple, not tight or greasy.
Common Types of Combination Skin
1.Normal to oily combination skin
2.Dry to oily combination skin
3.Sensitive combination skin- oily & dry sensitive skin
4.Acne prone combination skin- oily/normal/dry and acne
5.Mature combination skin- oily and dry skin combined with an aging skin.
Skincare Regimen for Combination Skin
- Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser that will not be harsh to dry or sensitive skin, and will still be effective in washing away the dirt and oil from oily skin. Go for a cleanser with a mild exfoliating agent such as salicylic acid.
- Toning: We recommend toners with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, witch hazel, and rosewater.
- Moisturize: Use a light weight moisturizer like papaya serum and cocoa butter cream.
- Sun Protection: Aim for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for effective protection against UV rays.
For more in depth information on each distinct skin type read our previous articles in the “Know Your Skin Type” series
