Skincare Guide - Combination Skin
Combination skin – care, causes and balance between the T-zone and cheeks
Combination skin refers to a skin type with varying needs: The T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) tends to overproduce sebum and shine, while the cheeks are often dry or sensitive. This combination makes skincare challenging, as it must simultaneously provide moisture and regulate excess sebum.
How combination skin develops
Sebum production is controlled by hormones, genetics, and environmental factors. The T-zone has a higher concentration of sebaceous glands per square centimeter, resulting in increased sebum production. On the cheeks, these glands are less active, causing the skin to dry out more quickly. Inappropriate products can exacerbate these imbalances and lead to irritation.
Identifying characteristics of combination skin
- Shine and enlarged pores in the T-zone
- Dry or rough patches on the cheeks
- Blemishes or blackheads in the mid-face area
- Feeling of tension on the sides after cleaning
Skincare principle for combination skin
The goal of skincare is to restore moisture balance and regulate sebum production. Ideally, use light, non-comedogenic formulations that provide hydration and sebum control. Skincare should be a two-step process: moisturizing products for dry areas and balancing agents for oily areas.
Recommended active ingredients
- Niacinamide: regulates sebum, refines pores and reduces redness ( PubMed 22913409 ).
- Hyaluronic acid: binds moisture without leaving a greasy film.
- Zinc and panthenol: have antibacterial and soothing effects.
- Squalane and ceramides: strengthen the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss.
Example of care with a balancing effect
NATURFACTOR® Porcelain Skin Serum is ideal for combination skin, as it strengthens the skin barrier while balancing sebum production and moisture levels. Its Bioactive Infusion Complex™ with pullulan, kigelia extract, and amino acids visibly firms the skin and promotes a balanced, refined texture.
Cleaning and maintenance
- Cleansing: Gentle, sulfate-free gels or milk cleansers to dissolve sebum without damaging the barrier.
- Toner: alcohol-free, soothing with aloe vera or niacinamide.
- Lotion or gel-serum: light textures with hyaluronic acid or squalane.
- Care oil: e.g., the Blue Crystal Drops facial oil for additional regeneration in dry areas.
Common mistakes in combination skin care
- Overly aggressive cleaning methods or alcohol-based toners worsen the moisture balance.
- Using heavy creams that clog pores.
- Irregular care leads to renewed sebum overproduction and dryness.
Conclusion
Combination skin needs balanced care that simultaneously moisturizes and balances. Combinations of a light serum and a hydrating facial oil are ideal. Products like the Porcelain Skin Serum and the Blue Crystal Drops support the skin's balance and ensure a smooth, healthy complexion.
Sources
- Draelos ZD (2013): Niacinamide in Dermatology – Clin Dermatol 31(5)
- Held E et al. (2022): Moisturizers and Barrier Function – Front Med (Lausanne)
- Matts PJ et al. (2021): Hydration Mechanisms in Skin Care – J Am Acad Dermatol
- Bae YM et al. (2021): Sebum Regulation and Barrier Balance – J Cosmet Dermatol
Tags: combination skin, skincare, porcelain skin serum, blue crystal drops, moisture balance, t-zone