There are six basic skin types and each one has its own unique set of characteristics and best care practices. ChitoCare beauty has rounded up some essential skincare tips for each skin type. In this article, we look at combination skin. 

Understanding what skin type you have will help you chose products that suit your skin’s needs and it will help you develop a skincare routine that works best for your skin type. Irrelevant of skin type, however, consistency plays a key role in maintaining healthy, glowing, youthful skin.  

Combination skin is one of the most common skin types. That said, it can be tricky to care for sometimes, as it combines two opposite skin types: oily and dry. Selecting products can be especially challenging for combination skin, because what dry skin enjoys, oily skin does not, and vice versa. Let’s look at what combination skin looks like and what skincare habits keep it healthy. 

Characteristics of combination skin 

Combination skin combines oily and dry skin, and people will typically experience more of one and less of the other. For example, overall dry skin with oily areas, or overall oily skin with dry areas. Characteristics of combination skin include: 

• Oilier areas in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) 
• A tendency towards acne in the T-zone 
• Enlarged pores in the T-zone 
• Normal or dry skin around the mouth, cheeks and eyes 

Skincare routine for combination skin 

Skincare routines for people with combination skin typically require more attention and perhaps varying or specialized products that can tackle both oily and dry skin issues. A skincare routine typical for combination skin includes cleansing and toning to care for the oily areas and moisturizing to care for the dry areas. 

Weather protection 

Always wear sunscreen before leaving the house, even in winter, as exposure to UV rays is the number one culprit of premature skin aging. Proper sun protection will prevent the development of sun damage-related fine lines, sunspots, or redness. As weather changes can be felt more by combination skin, paying attention to the possible reactions is crucial. For example, on warmer days combination skin can get oily and require deeper cleansing, while on colder days it can get dry and require deeper moisturizing. 

Cleansing 

Cleansing is a standard step for all skin types. For combination skin, it can result in dry areas, especially around the mouth, cheeks and eyes. Selecting a mild cleanser will clear away dirt, grime and pollution without drying out your skin or disrupting your skin microbiome. Remember to pat dry your skin to avoid micro-abrasions or redness.  

Moisturizing 

Moisturizing can be especially tricky for combination skin, as heavy creams cause too much oiliness, while lightweight creams can prove insufficient. Oil-infused products can often be too rich for the oily T-zone, so opt for water-based, non-comedogenic products that will not clog pores. You can tackle dryness with ChitoCare beauty Face Cream, that is suitable for all skin types. It is a light, non-comedogenic cream, containing aloe vera, moisturizing oils and antioxidants, and is absorbed quickly without leaving an oily residue. 

Exfoliating 

For a fresh-faced complexion, remember to exfoliate a couple times a week to encourage new skin cell growth. Exfoliating will help slough away dead skin cells and remove excess sebum that can cause acne breakouts and pimples. ChitoCare beauty Body Scrub can also be used on the face, as bamboo stem and walnut shell microgranules gently clear away dead skin cells, leaving your skin rejuvenated and smooth.   

Toning 

After cleansing your face, it can help to use a gentle, alcohol-free toner to balance your skin tone. A mattifying toner is great for the T-zone, as it treats excess oiliness, helps shrink pores and maintains the skin’s pH balance. Dietary supplements that contain zinc can also help regulate and improve skin tone, prevent hyperpigmentation, and boost new cell turnover. ChitoCare beauty Hair, Skin & Nails contains nutrients and antioxidants like collagen Type II, geothermal silica, zinc and marine fibres that promote healthy skin with an even tone, thicker hair and stronger nails. 

Pampering 

Apply a soothing face mask once a month to treat your skin to some additional nutrients. ChitoCare beauty Serum Mask is ideal as a monthly treatment, as it deeply hydrates the skin, supports collagen and elastin production, and leaves your skin feeling soft and moisturized. 

End note

Keep in mind that, even though we are each born with a specific skin type, skin type can change as we age, or due to intrinsic or extrinsic factors. The trick with any skincare regime is to keep it consistent and to pay attention to how your skin reacts – to new products, to weather changes, or to hormonal imbalances, such as those during menstruation or menopause. 

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ChitoCare beauty is the first skincare brand to incorporate marine chitosan into its products. Scientifically proven properties of chitosan include film-forming, moisture control and powerful skin repair.