Combination skin

Combination skin is one of the most common and demanding skin types. It represents a combination of two extremes: oily skin and dry or normal within different areas of the face. This means that its care requires a strategic and zonal approach. To keep combination skin in optimum balance, products and methods need to be flexibly adapted according to the current skin condition and changing external conditions, such as the seasons.

Characteristics of combination skin

The decisive factor in the diagnosis of combination skin is the so-called 'mixed complexion'. Zone T (forehead, nose and chin), which shows characteristics of oily or problematic skin:

• Overproduction sebum (sebum), leading to a visibly glowing face during the day
• Incidence of imperfections, blackheads and renlarged pores.

At the same time, the other parts of the face (mainly the cheeks and sides of the face) are dry or normal and can show if not properly cared for:

• Squeezing sensation (especially after washing)
• Possible dryness i peeling epidermis
• In winter, the skin tends to dry out, while in summer the problem of oiliness in the T-zone is often exacerbated.

Causes of combination skin

• Genetics and biology - hereditary tendency to uneven sebum production, hormonal influences
• Environment - Humidity and heat make the T-zone oily, cold and air conditioning dry out the cheeks
• Care

  • Aggressive washing dries out cheeks
  • Lack of hydration - dry skin produces more sebum
  • Inappropriate products (clogging or too drying)

• Lifestyle - Stress and inadequate diet can exacerbate the problem.

Skin care principles for combination skin

The care of combination skin is based on the principle of balance - you must at the same time regulate sebum in the T-zone and intensively moisturise dry parts. Remember that over-drying the oily parts can paradoxically lead to even more sebum production.

1. Gentle cleansing and toning

• Purification - use gentle gels, foams or hydrophilic oilswhich effectively remove make-up and impurities, but do not affect the the hydrolipidic barrier (BHL)
• Toning - use a toner that will restore the skin's natural pH and help złooth irritation, preparing the skin for the next steps in skincare. Avoid toners with a high alcohol content.

2. Active ingredients for balance

Active ingredients should be selected for multidirectional action:

• Niacinamide (vitamin B3) - strengthens the hydrolipidic barrier, has a soothing effect and supports sebum regulation
• Retinoids (e.g. retinal, retinol) - helps renew the epidermis, reduces the formation of blackheads and regulates sebaceous secretions
• AHA/BHA/PHA acids - are necessary for 1TP4Dermal exfoliationwhich helps unblock pores and smooth the skin

  • Salicylic acid (BHA) - Fat-soluble, mainly active in the T-zone
  • Mandelic acid/lactic acid - złhey act as a soothing and moisturising agent.

3. Moisturising and protecting (must-have)

• Lightweight formulas - choose light, non-comedogenic creams and sera that do not clog the pores. For combination skin, cosmetics with a light texture that do not weigh down the T-zone are best
• Zonal care - consider applying a richer, moisturising cream to dry cheeks and a lighter, mattifying product to the T-zone
• SPF protection - daily use sun protection (min. SPF 30) is mandatory as it prevents the exacerbation of inflammation and the formation of discolouration.

4. Additional steps

• Masks - you can use masks zonally: a cleanser (e.g. with clay) for the T-zone and a moisturiser for the cheeks
• Diet and lifestyle - remember to drink enough water and have a balanced diet rich in vitamins (especially A, E, B) and zinc for healthy skin.

In addition to home care, the importance of professional facial treatments performed by a cosmetologist or aesthetic practitioner. Individually tailored therapies can help you improve the condition of combination skin.