With ill-suited products, skincare efforts may be like one step forward, two steps back. To help break this tiring cycle, we are bringing you the best-targeted solution for combination skin. Since this skin type carries both dry and oily skin characteristics – a little help from us to scour and vet couldn't possibly hurt. Scroll ahead for oil-control and hydrating skin care products for combination skin that address specific concerns like dullness, pigmentation, acne and more. 

But First, What Is Combination Skin? 

If you experience greasiness in the T-zone, forehead and chin while your cheeks stay dry, chances are you’ve combination skin. 

Still can't figure? Here are some additional signs for identification -  

1. Enlarged pores: Due to the unregulated sebum production in and around the T-zone, the forehead, and the chin – you may observe enlarged pores. 

2. Clogged pores: The never-ending oil slick on combination skin attracts dirt, grime, and impurities all day. This leads to an unwarranted creation of pore-clogging buildup on the T-zone, the forehead, and the chin. If further aggravated, these plugged pores may turn into pesky whiteheads or blackheads. 

3. Frequent breakouts: Do you know what happens when bacteria start thriving in plugged pores? Conspicuous bumps with inflammation a.k.a. acne. If you notice frequent breakouts in and around the T-zone, the forehead, and the chin – you most likely have combination skin. 

4. Uneven greasiness and dryness: The degree of greasiness or dryness combination skin experience is subject to change. When it is hot outside, the oily parts may become oilier while your cheeks appear normal and vice versa.

5. Blotchy makeup application: People with combination skin may have an unpleasant experience wearing makeup. It may slide off the oily areas while hugging your cheeks for dead life.

What Causes Combination Skin? 

You may grapple with combination skin due to the following reasons  

- Your genetic makeup 

- Certain skincare products  

- Extreme weather conditions and environmental factor 

- Hormonal changes or influences

What Are Some Non-Negotiables For Combination Skin? 

Before finding targeted solutions for combination skin, here are some non-negotiables you should bear in mind. Scroll ahead to learn and make an informed decision

1. Use gentle, hydrating and pH-balancing cleansers: To maintain combination skin, opt for a mild, hydrating formula that doesn’t meddle with your skin’s pH. Look for ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, Aquaporin Boosters, Betaine and more.

2. Avoid oil-based formulas: Using oil-based formulas, especially creams can clog the pores and lead to breakouts. Instead, pick gel-based moisturizers to promote a healthy skin microbiome.   

3. Use blotting paper: To effectively cut shine from problem areas, use blotting paper. Avoid aggressively rubbing your face with a towel, as it may lead to strain on the skin.   

4. Exfoliate regularly: Use ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid to exfoliate the dermis. For those unaware, exfoliation cuts excess sebum and buildup to prevent whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. 

5. Never skimp on moisturizer: Never skimp on moisturization to prevent greasiness and clogged pores on combination skin. Instead, opt for lightweight formulas that cut excess sebum while ensuring a big hydration boost to the skin.

What Are Some Targeted Solutions To Deal With Combination Skin? 

If you’re looking to target specific skin concerns like dullness, acne or hyperpigmentation, here are the best result-oriented solutions for your consideration - 

1. For oil control while ensuring hydration – Niacinamide  

To cut greasiness while rejuvenating dry spots on your skin, try skincare workhorse Niacinamide. A form of Vitamin B3 – Niacinamide blots excess oil and prevents clogged pores while improving your skin’s water-holding capacity. Additionally, the active ingredient upholds barrier health, soothes inflammation, and ensures a brightening effect for the skin. 

Our Recommendation – Foxtale’s 5% Niacinamide Serum

2. For intense hydration – Hyaluronic Acid 

If your skin is drier than its oily, we recommend adding Hyaluronic Acid to your daily rituals. The potent humectant can bind approximately X 1000 water molecules in its weight to the skin. Use the skincare acid to replenish moisture levels, regulate sebum protection, and soothe flare-ups instantly. 

Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Hyaluronic Acid

3. For brightness – Vitamin C  

If you want to enhance your skin’s latent glow, might we recommend Vitamin C for your routine? The efficacious ingredient inhibits melanin synthesis in skin cells to fade dark spots and pigmentation. Results? Radiant, even toned skin. Additionally, Vit C possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it safe for everyday use. 

Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Vitamin C Serum 

4. For uniform complexion – Tranexamic Acid 

Dark spots and hyperpigmentation can make your skin look patchy. Enter Tranexamic Acid! The understated ingredient regulates melanin production while visibly brightening the skin. 

Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Rapid Spots Reduction Drops

5. For youthful skin – Retinol   

Premature ageing is a prevalent concern, regardless of your skin type. To keep the worry of fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet at bay, place your trust in Retinol. This holy grail of anti-ageing helps boost Collagen production in your skin to make it look firm and taut.  

Retinol’s ability to unclog pores and ensure mild moisture retention makes it a great fit for combination skin.

Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s Retinol Serum

6. For acne-free skin – AHAs and BHAs

Excess sebum, grime, and keratin can clog the pores, leading to acne. Topical use of AHAs, BHAs dislodge buildup to prevent whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. Popular AHAs and BHAs include Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, etc. 

Our Recommendation: Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum

FAQs 

1. How do I know if my skin is combination? 

If you experience extreme greasiness on the T-zone, forehead, and chin while your cheeks appear dry and flaky – chances are you have combination skin.

2. What are the best products for combination skin? 

Step 1: Cleansing with Salicylic Acid Face Wash  

Step 2: Moisturize with Foxtale’s Oil Free Moisturizer 

Step 3: Sun Protect with our Mattifying Sunscreen 

3. What is the best face wash for combination skin? 

Try Foxtale’s Acne Control Face Wash for combination skin. Salicylic Acid in the formula regulates sebum production, alleviates inflammation, and combats non-inflammatory and inflammatory acne.