What you need to know about combination skin

First of all: what is combination skin? Loosely defined, combination skin has both oily areas and dry patches; typically the oily areas are in the “T-zone” – or the forehead, nose, and chin. Many of us have what we’d classify as combination skin, but it can be difficult to settle on a skin care routine when your skin doesn’t fall into a specific category of “dry,” “normal,” or “oily.”

Caring for combination skin

One of the most important things to remember when caring for combination skin is to avoid harsh ingredients. The key is to keep your routine gentle and balanced.

Cleansing

While it may be tempting to use a harsher cleanser to deal with the oily areas of your skin, the best thing to do is to use a gentle cleanser that matches the skin’s natural pH. Avoid foaming or sudsy cleansers that have a tendency to over-dry skin. Reviva’s Gentle Soothing Cleansing Gel is excellent for use on combination skin. Remember: skin should feel clean and soft, but not tight, after cleansing. If skin feels tight after cleansing, your cleanser is too harsh for your skin type.

Exfoliating

Exfoliation is good for all skin types, and combination skin is no exception. Again, gentle products and ingredients are key. Avoid exfoliants with large “particles” that can cause tiny tears in your skin. You can use an exfoliant or scrub with tiny abrasives, as long as it is gentle on your skin. The great thing about exfoliation is that it can remove dead, dry, flaky skin cells, as well as excess oil. Exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on how your skin responds.

Hydrate and Moisturize

Light moisturization and hydration are important for all skin types; as they’ll help keep excess oil and dryness in check. A serum, such as Reviva’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum or High Potency Collagen Serum can provide extra protection for your skin, or can treat a specific concern. Follow up your preferred serum with a light moisturizer. Reviva’s Intercell Day Cream provides an extra boost of Hyaluronic Acid. Be sure to use a sunscreen during the day.

Mask it

A calming mask can make all the difference – when you use the right one. Reviva’s Problem Skin Mask helps clear away blemishes without drying the skin. The important thing is for skin to feel clean and refreshed, without feeling tight.

Choose the right foundation

It’s tempting to use foundation to cover up any blemishes or any areas of the skin that might not look their best. Heavy coverage foundations can actually exacerbate acne and oiliness. Powder foundations may cause skin to look dull and lifeless. Go for light, sheer coverage – and avoid foundation if you can. Creating a balanced, gentle skin care regimen is the key to keeping combination skin healthy and beautiful. If you need help choosing products for your combination skin, please contact Reviva Labs’ experts at 1-800-257-7774.