The Art of Balance: Creating a Skincare Routine for Combination Skin

If you've got combination skin, you're likely no stranger to the tightrope walk of skincare. Your face might make you feel like you're juggling two different skin types at once. But fear not because we're here to help you uncover the secrets of creating a good skincare routine for combination skin. It's time to welcome a harmonious routine that keeps both your oily and dry zones happy. 

But first, what is combination skin?

Combination skin is having two or more areas in your face with different skin conditions, like oily or dry/normal. The oily zone is around the T-zone of the face, which includes the forehead, nose and chin; it tends to be oily due to overactive sebaceous glands. Then there are the dry or normal zones; these can feel dry, flaky or rough to the touch. 

The causes of combination skin differ for each individual; the main factors could include genetics and environment. It could also be influenced by your diet, lifestyle and hormones. But one thing's for sure: When you have combination skin, you might find it difficult to create an easy skincare routine as you may need multiple products to manage each skin type.

Identifying your skin's needs

To understand your skin better and give it the proper care it requires, you need to assess what skin types you have. First, take a close look at your skin in natural light. Pay attention to its texture, colour and any visible issues like acne, dry patches or redness. You can also use a mirror to examine different areas of your face, especially the T-zone and cheeks. Then, ask yourself questions such as:

• Do I experience excessive oiliness or shine in certain areas?
• Do I have dry, flaky patches on my skin?
• Do I frequently experience breakouts or acne?
• Is my skin prone to redness, irritation or sensitivity?
• Does my skin change during different seasons?

After answering these questions, you'll have an idea whether you have normal, dry, oily or acne-prone skin. Now, what if you have two different skin types on your face at the same time? If you do, you probably have combination skin. Here are more signs of combination skin:

1. Oily T-Zone: Your T-zone tends to be oilier than the rest of your face. Also, you may notice enlarged pores and an overall shine in this area.
2. Dry or Normal Cheeks: Even if you have an oily T-zone, your cheeks and sometimes the areas around the eyes and mouth can be dry or have normal skin texture. They may feel tight, flaky or even rough.
3. Occasional Breakouts: Combination skin often experiences occasional breakouts, particularly in the oily T-zone. These breakouts can manifest as blackheads, whiteheads or pimples.
4. Visible Pores: Enlarged pores are common in the T-zone due to excess oil production, while the pores on the dry or normal parts of the face may appear smaller.
5. Fluctuating Skin: Your skin's condition may change with different factors, like weather, seasons, diet or stress. For instance, your T-zone may become oilier in hot weather and drier in cold, dry conditions.
6. Makeup Behaviour: Pay attention to how your makeup behaves. If foundation tends to wear off quickly on your T-zone but lasts longer on your cheeks, it's a sign of combination skin.
7. Sensitivity: Combination skin can sometimes be sensitive. You may notice redness or irritation, particularly in the dry areas.

Explore different routines, but pick organic products.

Are you pretty sure you have combination skin? Start testing out a skincare routine that works for you. We recommend trying small spots first to see how your skin reacts then continuing if it works well for you. Also, organic skincare products are recommended for combination skin because they usually contain no chemicals that could irritate the skin further.

Facial cleanser

First on the list to try would be a cleanser. We recommend our Alivio Wellness Glycolic Facial Cleanser. It is a gentle product, making it a good cleanser for combination skin. Its organic ingredients, such as aloe and hemp seed, create a natural moisturiser. It also contains cucumber and green tea, which can both calm the skin, easing any redness. Try this around two times a day to see how it works for your skin.

Exfoliating scrub

The second thing you need is exfoliation, and we recommend Talia Blemish Rescue. This exfoliating scrub balances and revives your skin's texture while balancing its moisture level. It also features a unique blend of magnesium, calcium, sodium and potassium, which can stimulate and revitalise the skin's elasticity. How often should you use an organic exfoliating scrub? You only need to exfoliate around two times a week.

Moisturiser

Next, let's talk about moisturiser. We love the Talia Heaven's Dew Pore Minimising Oil-Free Moisturiser. This is a recommended moisturiser for combination skin because it is oil-free. Do you have oily and acne-prone skin? Talia Heaven's moisturiser features a blend of salicylic acid (BHA), Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide (B3) that will help keep your skin hydrated and clear. Apply this every morning after cleansing your face.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential for all skin types. Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and include it in your everyday skincare routine for combination skin. Also, consider gel-based or mattifying sunscreens; they work well for combination skin, providing sun protection without adding excess oil.

Facial masks

Lastly, consider using a hydrating mask for the dry areas and a clay mask for the oily areas once a week to balance your skin. We recommend our Talia Black Clay Mud Mask, which is made from detoxifying Dead Sea mud that helps clear and clarify the skin. 

Consistency is key.

What skincare routine is best for combination skin? As mentioned, you have to explore to find a perfect skincare routine for your combination skin. But it helps to be consistent every time you try a new regimen. Don't get discouraged if something doesn't work out; remember that there are always more products and options to try to get it right.

More importantly, pay attention to how your skin reacts to skincare products and adjust your usage accordingly. You may need to change products seasonally as your skin's needs can change with the differing seasons or temperatures. Just always look for gentle and organic ingredients to find the best skincare products for combination skin.

Also, everyone's skin is unique; what works for your friend or sister may not work for you. The best approach is to listen to your skin and tailor your skincare routine to its specific needs, finding the delicate balance that keeps it healthy and radiant.