SKIN CARE TIPS
Getting Started, know your skin type~
I bring you Blog Two in this skincare series and this covers skincare tips for COMBINATION SKIN. To put it simply, this skin type is a mixture of oily and normal or drier areas on the face. Generally, the T-Zone tends to be oily and the cheeks are dry. When you have combination skin, you tend to be in constant battle with your T-Zone. You may find especially it hard to keep makeup from sliding off your face in those areas.
How do I identify combination skin? ~
I have listed some of the classic signs of combination skin for you. Over the years I have found more people have combination skin like this than any other skin type.
Characteristics of Combination skin~
- Normal or Dry, flaking areas on cheeks
- Excessive oil on nose, forehead and chin
- Prone to breakouts where oil production is found
- In a constant battle with the T-Zone (forehead, nose and chin)
Choosing products for this skin type~
The big secret here is to spot treat your problem areas.
Cleansing~
Try to cleanse with a cleanser formulated to cut down on sebum production and use a moisturiser on your dry areas. Try exfoliating the face with a warm washcloth or muslin square once to twice a week. This will help to break down oils and remove dead skin cells.
Go for a basic skincare routine…. In the summer, wash with a cleanser formulated for oily skin. In the winter use one that’s formulated for normal to dry skin. Be sure to cleanse the skin thoroughly at night and rinse off with warm water in the morning so you’re not over-cleansing the skin. Over cleansing can cause the skin to over produce oil.
Toning~
Always use a toner on the oilier areas of your face but be sure to avoid one that is too astringent. Toners are great for removing remaining sebum and cleansing residue on the skin. You can also find a toner that acts as a mattifier and reduces the look of shine on the skin.
Moisturising~
Moisturise your dry spots well with a light, oil-free moisturiser. Skip your oilier areas throughout the summer. Throughout the winter you can moisturise the whole face with a heavier, richer formulation that’s designed for combination skin.
Targeted treatments~
Be sure to try and exfoliate twice a week with a gentle facial scrub. Check the label and make sure it’s designed for combination skin. These products designed for combination skins will contain ingredients that will be suitable for targeted treatment so you must be sure it is suitable for your skin type.
If you tend to suffer from breakouts, an astringent may help but be careful to use it only on your problem spots and avoid your dry areas. You can also use your toner for this; these can be too drying for other skin types. Again, ensure not to use over the drier areas of the face.
As you probably know already by now, I love Neal’s Yard products. They are organic, natural and cruelty-free and they have the most amazing ranges suited to all skin types. Check it out here.
How about a facial? I have a great selection for all skin types and they are the perfect way to start you on the correct path with your skincare. Visit my services page to find out more.
