Everyone has a predominant skin type based on their hormonal life stage. Usually, skin types fall into three categories: oily skin, dry skin, and combination skin. Knowing your skin type can help inform how you choose a skincare routine that is both effective at targeting your skin concerns, and also helps to prevent problematic skin. In short, what works for one person, may not work for another depending on their skin type. Your skin type can also change with age or by moving to a different climate. If you’re currently neither oily or dry, it’s likely you have combination skin. Read on to find out what is combination skin and how you can best nail down a skincare routine that works for you.

What Is Combination Skin?

Combination skin is, well, the combination of the two main skin types, oily and dry. It’s typically characterized by an oily t-zone — forehead, nose and chin — but is dry everywhere else, like the cheeks and jawline. Many factors play a role in combination skin, but genetics is primarily the cause of what skin type you have. Other environmental factors, such as lifestyle choices, physical stress, and hormonal fluxes may also play a role in how much, and where, your skin is producing oil. The truth is, people with combination skin can experience both dry, patchy areas of skin, and breakouts. Not to mention, using the wrong skincare products for your skin type can exacerbate problem areas, so it’s important to experiment with different skincare products to see what works best for you.

How to Treat Combination Skin

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but the key is finding a balance between products that moisturize dry skin, without making your face greasy in areas that are prone to more sebum production and shine, like your t-zone. Anything too heavy may be helpful for your dry skin area, but problematic for your oily areas. A good rule of thumb is to opt for products without chemical fragrances, which can irritate areas with dry skin, and to use non-comedogenic products, which are designed to not clog pores. “Try to balance your skin by washing twice daily and applying what your skin needs that day,” says Dr. Zenovia. “If dry, add moisturizer, if you're oily, then add acne gel (benzoyl peroxide) and retinol.”

Skincare Routine for Combination Skin

Dr. Zenovia says combination skin needs balancing. All of Dr. Zenovia's products are made with a powerful combination of antioxidants and the proprietary REG-ulate360 Complex™, which includes a unique Phytoestrogen component to help balance hormonal fluctuations, protect and soothe hormonally imbalanced, sensitive skin. “I recommend a Vitamin C in the morning for antioxidation, and a retinol at night for oil control and anti-aging,” says Dr. Zenovia. “As far as ‘oil,’ I like ceramides as a moisturizer … They are found in many moisturizers now and ceramides are acne-safe and hydrate.” As far as any chemical exfoliators, it’s important to gradually introduce ingredients like Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycolic Acid, and Salicylic Acid into your skincare regimen. If excessive dryness or irritation occurs, reduce application. Additionally, as these ingredients can increase sensitivity to the sun, be sure to follow with SPF during the day.

AM

Step 1: Dr. Zenovia Bakuchiol Hydrating Cleanser

Step 2: Dr. Zenovia Vitamin C Brightening Toner

Step 3: Dr. Zenovia Vitamin C Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30

PM

Step 1: Dr. Zenovia Bakuchiol Hydrating Cleanser

Step 2: Dr. Zenovia Advanced Retinol Night Repair Treatment

Step 3: Dr. Zenovia Peptide + Ceramide Repairing Moisturizer

Step 4: Dr. Zenovia Retinol Recovery Eye Cream

Note from Dr. Zenovia: It is important to know that skin type relates to our hormone levels and can change with age, climate changes, or even over the course of a monthly cycle!

Written By Mellanie Perez, Beauty & Wellness Editor