01/18/2023
How to choose the best face moisturizer for combination skin
While combination skin is pretty common, it can be hard to look after. When you have combination skin, your skin does not fit into any specific category like dry, oily, or sensitive skin.
It’s a combination of all these skin types, with some people experiencing more dryness while others are experiencing more oiliness or sensitivity.
People with combination skin have difficulty figuring out what’s happening with their skin because they sense a bit of everything.
Here are some tips from dermatologists to choose the best face moisturizer for combination skin.
Choose lightweight lotions
If you have combination skin, you might be better off opting for a light lotion rather than a heavy cream.
Choose a gel or water-based face moisturizer that hydrates your skin without making it feel heavy or sticky.
A light lotion will hydrate and moisturize the dry areas of your skin without causing problems on the oily T zone.
Apply a thin layer of lotion over your entire face. Next, apply another layer of the lotion only over the dry areas while avoiding the oily areas.
Go with non-comedogenic products if your skin feels extra oily
The term “comedo” or “comedone” refers to the earliest form of acne and refers to blocked pores. Non-comedogenic face moisturizers are designed to reduce the blockage of visible pores.
A face moisturizer with a non-comedogenic formula can moisturize your skin without blocking your pores (or with a reduced chance of clogging pores).
Some non-comedogenic formulas contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, oils like grapeseed oil, and salicylic acid.
Non-comedogenic face moisturizers usually steer clear of emulsifiers and thick oils.
Sometimes, non-comedogenic products can cause a breakout. If you see whiteheads or blackheads after using a non-comedogenic face moisturizer, stop using it.
Avoid products with comedogenic ingredients
Comedogenic ingredients are those ingredients that can cause pores to clog. According to board-certified dermatologist Jeremy Brauer, the list of pore-blocking ingredients includes many oils, butter, acids, alcohols, lanolins, and propylene glycol.
Note: Some fantastic combination skin face moisturizers do contain comedogenic ingredients. If these comedogenic ingredients are at the end of the list of ingredients, the product should be safe to use.
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Avoid ingredients that will harm your skin
Combination skin needs extra attention. Stay away from products with abrasives like fragrances, retinoids, and alcohol. These can rob your skin of its natural oils, make dry areas drier, and cause skin imbalances.
Choose oil-free formulas
Oil-free formulas can safely be used on oily t-zones and the dry areas of your face. These formulas provide all the skincare benefits your skin requires without causing breakouts.
Choose hydrating ingredients
Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, aloe vera, niacinamide, and squalene are all superior hydrating ingredients. They will keep both the oily and dry areas of your face hydrated, balanced, and nourished. When looking for the best face moisturizer for combination skin, look for these products to help care for your skin.
Use two types of moisturizers
Instead of a single face moisturizer skin, opt for a light water-based moisturizer for the oily areas and a heavier cream for the dry areas.