This is the most common of skin types, combining two of the classifications of ‘normal’, dry, sensitive or oily. It is particularly prevalent in adolescence, with most individuals experiencing raised sebum levels through hormonal activity in this life stage. However, some may experience this combination throughout life. Typically, the delicate eye area and cheeks would have a ‘normal’ skin texture and appearance with the T-zone (this is the forehead, nose and chin) presenting open pores & blackheads and sebum rich skin that may or may not have pimples.
For those who experience oily break-outs in their teens, a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables with limited sugar intake is most beneficial. In some cases, avoiding dairy can also help. But let’s face it, these years are often spent enjoying junk foods with friends and a sweet tooth is much celebrated! After a reasonably short period this phase should pass, as will the break-outs.
Combination skin that continues to present with excessive oiliness well into adulthood can be modified again in part, through diet. For female sufferers it’s crucial to maintain a healthy blood sugar balance every day. The link between blood sugar balance, stress hormones and sex hormones is complex but the following guide goes a long way to address this simplistically. Rihanna manages to pull off a fantastic shot even with her ‘symptoms’ of combination skin.
Our Combination Skin tips:
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid refined carbohydrates such as white bread and rice and consume protein and fibre with every meal.
- Minimise stress through lifestyle choices
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid smoking
- Minimise caffeine intake
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Get used to addressing different areas of your skin with different products
- Cleanse morning and night but do not exfoliate or scrub oily areas too frequently (once per week should suffice) as this can stimulate more oil production
- Don’t be tempted to apply harsh or drying products such as those containing alcohol such as methanol, isopropyl alcohol, propanol, benzyl alcohol, and sd alcohol or and other chemicals such as sulfates that create foaming of washes and soaps
Following this guide (although tedious at times!) will ensure a balanced skin type and you’ll be at your optimum health. PMS symptoms, weight management and a glorious complexion will be easier to achieve.
The icing on the cake of course is skincare…
The right regime can control excessive oil whilst nourishing areas of dry or normal skin. Although you will have to mix and match your product application dependent on the skin type for each area, the results will make it all worthwhile! Regardless of your age or life stage, the following protocol should be followed daily.
