Do you usually come across a problem where your face tends to get oily in some places, (mainly the T-zone), but feels dry on other area? That means you have a combination skin. And according to dermatologists, combination skin is considered to be healthy compared to other skin types—this is due to your complexion being prone to store the right amount of oil and hydration. It’s called balance.

And believe it or not, combination skin is actually the most common compared to other skin problems. Especially for Asian women like us. But keep in mind that every inch and corner of your skin needs its own TLC. Therefore, you *really* need to be careful when finding the right product to keep your skin in tack. A product that can offer you a good balance between hydration and sebum control. 

Still not convinced if you have combination skin? No worries, here’s how to tell if you’re being blessed with the right amount of oil and dryness, including some recommended products from Beauty Insider. Keep scrolling! 

(Source: Unsplash)

How To Tell If You Have Combination Skin

We would like to remind you that the state of your skin never stays exactly the same. Think of hormonal changes, the environment you’re exposed to, the changes of weather, your medication intakes, so on and so forth. So no matter what skin types you have, it may change throughout the time—depending on those various factors. Anyhow, since combination skin is the most common skin type it makes it easier for experts to detect some definitive signs. 

One of the obvious signs is that your T-zone area (starting from the breadth of your forehead, around your nose and all the way towards your chin) tends to get oily throughout the day, especially at noon. Whereas the rest of your skin feels dry. Next, pay attention during your menstrual cycle. During this time of the month, the levels of Androgen—also known as masculine hormones—are higher than your other femminine hormones. Which leads to clogged pores, and thus, you’ll suffer more oily and breakouts compared to other days. But best believe once your period is over, the breakout will dilute on its own.

(Source: Google Image)

What Causes Combination Skin? 

There are few hidden factors that may contribute to the state of your skin. Some people inherit a good amount of  sebaceous glands, a molecule in your body which helps to produce sebum. An active sebaceous glands is how you were being blessed with combination skin, anyway. Also your imbalance hormones and how you deal with them could be the fundamental factors. 

Take a look at your surroundings and the type of weather you’re exposed to. Too much sun exposure can change your mild oily problems to a heavy one if you’re not wearing the right product. Pollution, stress and foods you consume—too much sugar, carbs and junk food also not good for your skin.

But to be honest, there is not much to worry about if you have combination skin, you can just easily dab a blotting paper along your T-zone area and call it a day. Solve in under a second. In short, you either inherit them genetically or your hormones play a big role in the contribution of this combo skin probs. 

(Source: Google Image)

How To Treat Combination Skin? 

The only secret to keep your combination in check is finding a product that offers the right balance between controlling sebum and total hydration. And we get it, in regards to the sebum buildups, a lot of you are scared with wearing sunscreen—resulting in creating a more oily appearance. However, I can’t stress enough about the importance of incorporating sunscreen into your beauty regimen. They’ll help cure at least half of your skin concerns due to their magical SPF elements. All you need to do is find the right product, and stick with it. 

Similar to those suffering with oily skin problems, you should always cleanse your face in the morning, at night and in between when you start to feel greasy. Following a proper skincare routine is the golden key in looking after your skin and keeping them happy and rosey. It is recommended for people with combination skin to at least exfoliate 2-3 times a week, using a good AHA/BHA exfoliator. If you haven’t already, try to insert retinol onto your routine. It’ll help soothe any sensitive area. 

Last but not least, any product with Salicylic Acid, non-comedogenic and water-based products are recommended. All of these were made mostly targeting combination skin—they are the best skincare arsenal to help reduce oil  build-up, decongest large pores problems, and restore hydration. If you’re on the hunt for skincare products, look out for anything that is mild, gentle, hydrating, and calming and that is kind to your skin.

Best Products For Combination Skin In Malaysia

1. SkinnedCo “Lock and Stay” Rice Serum

If you haven’t already, you should try this local and Malaysian-based trusted brand, Skinned Co. Their ‘’Lock and Stay’’ Rice Serum is formulated with plant-based only ingredients, offering a total hydration boost and enhancing your radiant appearance! It is naturally rich in antioxidants and vitamins. A must have product for you with combination skin. 

Why we love it:

  • 100% vegan based 
  • Totally hydrating
  • Malaysian based brand 

Price: RM 136.00

  Add to cart

2. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay

If you’re a true beauty follower, you’ll have heard of this awesome clay mask. This Indian Healing clay mask is made out of bentonite clay, with a powerful quality that will cleanse and clear all excess oil and dirt that have been trapped underneath your skin. Resulting to a smoother appearance. You can Google this product and watch yourself amazed with all the reviews posted online. 

Why we love it:

  • Cult-favourite
  • Clarifies blackheads and whiteheads
  • Control oil sebum

Price: RM 55.20

  Add to cart

3. Neutrogena Combination Skin Oil-Free Moisture

A must have moisturizer for all you with combination skin. This moisturizer from Neutrogena is very lightweight, and is clinically proven to help control the production of oil on your T-zone area while locking hydration on your cheek. They were made specifically targeting those with combination skin. In short, if you have combination skin, you need to stock this in your beauty arsenal. 

Why we love it:

  • Specifically made for combination skin
  • Non-greasy, oil free
  • Very lightweight

Price: RM 33.50

Where to buy: Watsons

4. PIXI Overnight Retinol Oil

Despite it being a bit expensive, this PIXI Overnight Retinol Oil is the savior to your skin problems, no matter your type—combo, ace prone, sensitive or dry. They retinol will totally help to restore skin plumpness and improve the appearance of your complexion. Literally your skin will thank you for this.

Why we love it: 

  • Smoothing night oil.
  • Suitable for all skin types (work best for combination skin)
  • Paraben-free

Price: RM 120.00

Where To Buy: Sephora

5. Himalaya Refreshing & Clarifying Toner 

Listen, I have tried this toner from Himalaya before, and let me tell you they’re the best for you with combination skin. Vegan, cruelty-free and contains powerful plant extracts like citrus, lemon, lentil and berhavia roots. This toner will leave your skin feeling refreshed, reloaded and soft after each application. 

Why we love it: 

  • It helps combats acne and pimple and tightening of the pores
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Leaving your skin refreshed and cleaned

Price: RM 28.27

Where To Buy: Watsons

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