Combination skincare routine for summers
What's the story
Does your face feel dry and reddish in some areas, but shiny in other areas? You probably have combination skin. Finding the perfect skincare routine takes some trial and error, but with commitment, you'll find what works for your skin type. Irrespective of your skin type, finding the right products for your skin is a vital step to achieving healthy-looking skin. Here's a guide.
Cause
What is combination skin?
A combination of oily and dry skin can appear in different ways. Generally, those with combination skin have an oily T-zone and dry cheeks. This type of skin occurs genetically, but aging and hormone can change the skin. Usually, with age, our skin becomes less oily due to hormonal changes. Factors like menstruation, childbirth, and contraception can also cause changes in the skin.
Morning
This is what your morning skincare routine should look like
Pick a gel cleanser to wash off dirt and oil. Apply an alcohol-free toner to balance your skin's pH levels and shrink the pores. Choose a serum with hyaluronic acid for hydration. You'll need two moisturizers--choose a creamy one for dry areas; and lightweight formula for oily areas. Apply a lightweight formula sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Then go in with the makeup.
Nighttime
This is what your evening skincare routine should look like
Remove makeup with micellar water. Follow up with a cleanser to remove oil and dirt. Exfoliation is essential for all skin types. Choose a chemical exfoliant instead of a physical one to avoid microtears. Use sheet masks for extra hydration. Multi-masking works for combination skin. Apply a mud mask on oily areas and a hydrating one over dry areas. Finish with a night cream.
Products
What type of products to choose
Several companies make products specially made for combination skin. These products are much gentler and won't strip off your skin's natural oils. You can skip using a moisturizer on the T-zone, or choose a water-based product. For your cheeks, depending on how dry they are, pick a lightweight moisturizer or an extremely enriching cream. Avoid all alcohol-based products as they will irritate the skin.
Problems
Targeting specific skin concerns
Use a cleaner that has salicylic acid, if you're fighting acne; and toner to get rid of blackheads and excess oil. If anti-aging is your motto, you have to focus on lifting sagging skin and blurring fine lines. A hyaluronic acid-based product can do the job. Retinol is also fine for combination skin. Avoid products with synthetic fragrances to avoid inflammation and breakouts.