Combination skin: causes, effects, and solutions

The characteristics of our skin change depending on the area of skin: the skin on our eyelids and skin on our palms or armpits, have a very different anatomy and function differently. Even just on the face, the skin on our cheeks, forehead and chin, have different characteristics.

“Combination” skin is common and can be a reason for dermatological consultation because it is difficult to look after.

Combination skin is not a skin type per se as it can be dry or oily (hyperseborrheic). It is characterised by an oily t-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and normal to dry (or even flaky) skin on the rest of the face.

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Why combination skin and not dry skin?

We cannot change our skin type, but to compensate for certain imbalances we must use suitable skincare products.

However, our skin type can change; a shift from combination skin to dry skin, for example, is common when you reach your fifties.

So do we need to prioritise combating excess sebum?

The presence of oily or even areas with blemishes is not a valid reason to tailor your skincare routine to suit oily skin. You actually need to take into account the specific skin reactivity causing dry areas on the face with combination skin.

Applying a cosmetic product intended for oily skin on these dry areas (or, conversely, applying a product intended for dry skin on oily areas) is often poorly tolerated and can cause significant skin discomfort.

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How do I look after combination skin?

We recommend using products specifically formulated for combination skin to:

Skin care for the T-zone for oily skin. The goal is to reduce the shiny and greasy appearance and work effectively to combat excessive sebum by providing a mattifying effect.
Hydrate and comfort areas that feel tight.
You should never use “stripping” products that are too aggressive for the dry parts of the face and stimulate the production of sebum on the oily parts.

Our expert answers your questions

Living better with combination skin

A loose powder is perfect for mattifying this area and can be reapplied, if needed, during the day. Before applying foundation, you can also use a mattifying cream or lotion to reduce shine on that area all day.

First of all, always ask your GP and dermatologist.
In the case of combination skin, specific products for oily, acne-prone skin should be used only on the central area of the face. To improve tolerance and promote compliance, the use of dermo-cosmetic products is recommended to restore the skin’s comfort.

People with oily, acne-prone skin want to hide their blemishes. Advances now allow you to conceal these blemishes effectively with non-greasy and non-occlusive formulas. In the case of combination skin, a suitable foundation should be combined with a highly hydrating cream to prevent the skin from drying out.

People often associate sun protection with having thick textures that are no good for oily areas of the face/for combination skin, as the secretion of sebum increases in hotter weather. Today, the textures of sun care products have changed significantly and have been adapted to different skin types. It’s now easy to find products that are both effective and particularly suitable for this skin type.