5 steps to care for combination skin.

As the first step of any skincare routine, the facial cleansing is just as essential for combination skin as it is for other skin types. However, it can be quite challenging for combination skin, which features areas with higher sebum production, usually at the forehead, nose, and chin (T-zone), and other areas, such as the cheeks, that tend to be more normal to dry. The goal of cleansing is therefore to remove impurities and excess sebum in the oily regions, without irritating or drying out the drier areas.

For this, we recommend opting for a mild cleanser, ideally a cleansing gel, a product with a light, fluid texture capable of effectively removing impurities without leaving an oily residue on the skin. We also advise choosing products free of sulfated surfactants, which can be overly harsh and dry areas with limited sebum production while triggering excess sebum in the T-zone, a phenomenon known as reactive hyperseborrhea.

Combination skin must be cleansed daily morning and evening.

Note In winter, when temperatures fall, the skin becomes drier and tends to produce less sebum, as demonstrated in a recent study involving 46 volunteers. In this context, using a cleanser both morning and evening may be excessive. You can then simply use a toner or hydrosol in the morning.

Hydration is a crucial step in the skincare routine for combination skin because it preserves the suppleness and comfort of dry areas while balancing the oilier ones. Contrary to a common misconception, combination skin should not be deprived of moisture simply because some regions produce more sebum. On the contrary, appropriate hydration helps regulate excessive sebum production, preventing the skin from compensating with increased lipid secretion. Nonetheless, it is advisable to use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers that have a fluid texture, or even in the form of gel-creams.

In terms of active ingredients, we recommend favoring hydrating ingredients capable of retaining water within the core of the epidermis, such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which ensure lasting hydration without weighing down the skin. Soothing extracts, such as aloe vera or chamomile, can also be beneficial for calming areas prone to irritation or sensitivity. Finally, for oilier zones, the inclusion of mattifying actives—such as niacinamide, which also helps reinforce the skin barrier—can help limit shine.

Taking care of combination skin also involves regular exfoliation. This weekly practice helps to refine skin texture and prevent pore blockage, especially in the T-zone, which is prone to excess sebum. By removing dead cells from the skin’s surface, exfoliation prevents their buildup, which can promote comedone formation. Exfoliating the skin, whether combination or not, also enhances the penetration of serums and other subsequent skincare products. To achieve this, you can opt for a granular scrub or one containing chemical exfoliants, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs).

To avoid disrupting the skin barrier function, we recommend not exceeding two exfoliations per week.

Tip : If your skin is combination and sensitive, it may be beneficial to use an exfoliant containing gluconolactone. Owing to its relatively high molecular weight, this polyhydroxy acid (PHA) remains confined to the surface of the stratum corneum, delivering gentle exfoliation.

Sun protection is an essential step in any skincare routine, and combination skin is no exception. Indeed, UV rays can exacerbate skin imbalances by stimulating sebum production in the T-zone, while further compromising already dehydrated areas. Unprotected exposure also promotes premature aging of the skin and can lead to early wrinkles or hyperpigmentation. For combination skin, the key is to choose sun protection that is tailored to combine efficacy with a lightweight feel. Fluid, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic formulas are particularly recommended to prevent pore clogging and avoid leaving a sticky film on the skin’s surface, especially in the T-zone.

It is recommended to apply sunscreen every day, even in the absence of sunlight or during indoor activities, because the UV rays can penetrate windows.

Combination skin can require a differentiated approach to address the specific needs of each area. Indeed, because the T-zone is generally oilier than the cheeks, applying a single product across the entire face may be insufficient or even counterproductive. For a more tailored routine, it may be advantageous to use different treatments in each zone. For example, on the T-zone, a lightweight moisturizer with purifying and mattifying properties is ideal for controlling shine. On the cheeks, however, the skin may need richer hydration. In that case, it’s best to choose a nourishing cream formulated for normal to dry skin, providing comfort and protection.

This zoning approach can also be applied to masks. In the T-zone, a purifying mask formulated with clay or charcoal will help absorb excess sebum and unclog pores. On the drier areas, a hydrating mask containing plant oils or squalane will nourish and restore the skin barrier. This can be more complicated with cleansers because, during rinsing, products tend to spread across the entire face. However, if you’re already applying this approach with your moisturizers, masks, and scrubs, you’re already providing a real benefit to your combination skin.

Although this approach demands more time and rigorous attention, customizing your skincare regimen to the specific zones of your face can be particularly advantageous for combination skin.

• YOUN S. W. & al. Regional and seasonal variations in facial sebum secretions: A proposal for the definition of combination skin type. Skin Research and Technology (2005).

• MAIBACH H. I. & al. Oily skin: An overview. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology (2012).