What is a Combination Skin?

"Combination Skin" is, as the name implies, a skin that consists of a mixture of skin types. Skin types vary, between the T-zone and cheeks with combination skin.

 

 

Understanding Combination Skin

Combination skin is characterized by having both oily and dry areas on the face. Typically, the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) tends to be oily, while the cheeks and other areas can be normal or dry. This makes caring for combination skin a bit more complex, but with the right routine, it is possible to keep the skin balanced and healthy.

Combination skin is characterized by the following:

  • Oily T-zone (forehead, chin and nose).
  • Enlarged pores in this area, perhaps with some impurities.
  • Normal to dry cheeks.

An oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and drier cheeks indicate the presence of so-called combination skin.
Causes of combination skin. The oilier parts of combination skin are due to an overproduction of sebum. The drier parts of combination skin are due to a lack of sebum and a corresponding lipid deficit.

 

Evaluation of skin type and condition

In contrast to skin type, skin condition can vary considerably over the course of a lifetime. Among the many internal and external factors that determine skin condition are the following: climate and pollution, medication, stress, hereditary factors that influence the levels of sebum, sweat and natural moisturizing factors produced by the skin, as well as the products you use and the skin care options you are applying.

Skin care products should be selected to suit your skin type and address your skin condition. Dermatologists and other skin care experts determine a person's skin type and condition by measuring the following factors:

Signs of aging

  • Our skin type can evolve over the course of a lifetime. People with an oily skin type in adolescence may find that their skin becomes drier after puberty, while people with a normal skin type find that their skin becomes drier as they age.
  • As all skin types age, the skin loses volume and density, fine lines and wrinkles appear, and changes in pigmentation may be observed. Knowing and measuring these signs of aging helps us determine the condition of the skin.

 

Skin color

Skin color and ethnicity influence the skin's response to external forces such as sun, pigmentation disorders, irritation and inflammation. Basic skin color is determined by the density of the epidermis and the distribution of melanin.

 

Skin sensitivity

Dry skin is skin that is easily irritated by different factors, which are usually tolerated by the skin in good balance, for example by certain skin care products or by high or low temperatures.

For some people, sensitive skin is a permanent problem, for others the sensitivity has its origin in certain external and internal factors. It occurs when the skin's natural barrier function is compromised, resulting in water loss and the entry of irritants.

Symptoms are exacerbated by factors to which the facial skin is most exposed, from the sun to certain ingredients in cosmetics and cleansing agents.

 

Sebum and sweat production

The amount of sebum produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin controls the effectiveness of the skin barrier function and, consequently, the condition of the skin. Overproduction of sebum can result in oily, acne-prone skin, while low sebum production causes dry skin.

The skin's sweat glands produce sweat to help the body maintain its optimal temperature. Excessive or low sweat production can influence the condition of the skin.
For oily skin it is essential to follow a daily skin care regimen with appropriate products.

 

Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF)

Naturally present in healthy skin, NMFs, like amino acids, help bind water within the skin, maintain its elasticity and suppleness and prevent it from becoming dehydrated. When the skin's protective barrier
barrier is damaged, it is often unable to retain these essential NMFs. The consequence is that skin moisture is diminished and skin condition is affected.

 

Hydrolipidic Coat or EPI-cutaneous Emulsion

Also called hydrolipidic film, it is a natural emulsion of our skin. This layer has many benefits. First of all, it maintains a barrier against the outside. It is also responsible for keeping our skin hydrated, as well as keeping it looking velvety.

This substance is composed of sebum (fats and lipids) and sweat produced in the sweat glands. This proportion is balanced, although there are skins that have it altered, so they are easily irritated or have a higher lipidic part, which creates oily and shiny skins.

 

Causes of Skin Aging

Sun exposure, polluted environment, skin thickness, lack of hygiene. Therefore, a deep cleansing should be performed every month.

 

Tips for Caring for Combination Skin

  • Proper Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser that doesn't dry out the dry areas but also controls the oiliness of the T-zone. Prefer products that are indicated for combination skin.
  • Balanced Moisturizing: Apply a light moisturizer to the oily areas and a more nourishing one to the dry areas. Gel products are great for the T-zone, while richer creams can be used on the cheeks.
  • Regular Exfoliation: Gently exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent pore blockage, being careful not to irritate the drier areas.
  • Facial Masks: Use different types of masks for different areas of the face. A clay mask can help control the oiliness in the T-zone, while a hydrating mask can benefit the dry areas.
  • Sun Protection: Apply an oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreen to protect the skin without clogging pores or increasing oiliness.

 

Home Remedies

  • Honey: Has antibacterial and moisturizing properties, ideal for a quick mask.
  • Cucumber: Refreshes and hydrates the skin, perfect for dry areas.
  • Rose Water: Can be used as a toner to balance the skin.

 

When to Consult a Dermatologist

If you can't balance the needs of your combination skin with daily care, consult a dermatologist. They can recommend specific products and professional treatments to help balance the skin.

 

Conclusion

Caring for combination skin can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it is possible to keep the skin healthy and beautiful. Adapting your skincare routine to the specific needs of each area of the face is essential. And don't forget to drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to help your skin's health.

 

To learn more, explore the other articles available on our website.
Enjoy and discover valuable information for your well-being.