Understand Your Skin Types
Combination Skin
How do I know if I have combination skin?
Combination skin types tend to be the phase transitioning from oily skin to dry skin. During any periods between 25 – 35 years old, you will observe excessive oil production in the T-Zone, which is the area covering your forehead and nose, as well as insufficient oil production in the U-Zone, which is the area from the left cheek to the chin followed by the right cheek in a U-shape. After using a cleanser or clay mask formulated for oily skin, the unprotected U-Zone will feel tight and uncomfortable. This is a warning signal from the skin that tells you that the product you are currently using has not only stripped away the natural oils but also whatever remaining moisture within.
What should combination skin types look out for?
As combination skin types have two different areas of skin to look out for, avoid using drying facial cleansers for oily skin that are formulated to strip away excess sebum and oil, as the cleanser can strip away the moisture in the dry U-zone which has little or no protection or moisture retention capabilities due to the lack of oil production. The skin requires a natural balance of oils: water ratio to thrive and grow healthily. Instead, opt for gel cleansers and hydrating moisturizers that come with a jelly-like or gel texture.