Question 1

What is the best skincare routine for combination skin?

Accepted Answer

Here is a suggested natural skincare routine for combination skin using the Freshmade Skin and Personal Care brand's Ubtan product.

Cleanse: Start by cleansing your skin in the morning and evening with the Freshmade Ubtan Cleanser. It is made with natural ingredients like turmeric, sandalwood, and besan (chickpea flour), which can help to gently remove impurities and excess oil.
Tone: After cleansing, use a toner to help balance your skin's pH and to remove any remaining impurities. Look for a toner that contains ingredients like witch hazel or rose water, which can help to control oil production.
Treat: Apply the Freshmade Ubtan to help address any specific skin concerns you may have. The Ubtan contains ingredients like Turmeric and Sandalwood, which can help to brighten the skin and improve its texture.
Moisturize: Use a light, non-greasy moisturizer to hydrate your skin. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients like glycerin, which can help to lock in moisture, and niacinamide, which can help to improve the skin's barrier function.
SPF: Always finish your routine with a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from UV damage.

Question 2

What causes combination skin, and can it be prevented?

Accepted Answer

Combination skin is a skin type that is characterized by having both oily and dry or normal areas on the face. The causes of combination skin are not entirely clear, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

Hormonal fluctuations can play a significant role in the development of combination skin. During puberty, for example, the body's hormone levels fluctuate, triggering an increase in sebum production in the T-zone, which includes the forehead, nose, and chin. This can lead to oily skin in these areas, while the cheeks, temples, and jawline may remain dry or normal.Environmental factors, such as sun exposure, pollution, and weather changes, can also affect the skin's moisture levels and exacerbate the symptoms of combination skin. Exposure to harsh chemicals, such as those found in some skincare products, can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness in some areas and increased sebum production in others.Unfortunately, combination skin cannot be entirely prevented. However, there are steps you can take to manage the symptoms and improve the overall health of your skin. One of the best ways to prevent oily skin in the T-zone is to avoid using harsh, oil-stripping cleansers or over-exfoliating the skin, as this can cause the skin to produce more oil to compensate.Using gentle, non-comedogenic skincare products that are specifically formulated for combination skin can help balance the skin's moisture levels and prevent breakouts. It's also essential to protect the skin from the sun's harmful UV rays by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily.

Finally, adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress levels, can also help improve the overall health and appearance of combination skin. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding smoking can also benefit the skin. By taking these steps, you can help manage the symptoms of combination skin and maintain healthy, beautiful skin.

Question 3

How can I tell if I have combination skin?

Accepted Answer

Combination skin is characterized by having both oily and dry areas on the face. Here are some specific signs that can help you determine if you have combination skin:

Oily T-zone: The T-zone, which includes the forehead, nose, and chin, tends to be oilier than the rest of the face. If you notice that your T-zone is consistently shiny, even shortly after washing your face, you may have combination skin.
Dry cheeks: The cheeks and other areas of the face may feel dry or tight, especially after cleansing or exposure to the elements. If you notice dry patches on your face that do not improve with regular moisturization, you may have combination skin.
Enlarged pores: The T-zone may have larger pores than the rest of the face. This can contribute to blackheads and whiteheads and may be especially noticeable on and around the nose.
Breakouts: Combination skin can be more prone to breakouts, particularly in the oily areas. If you experience frequent or persistent breakouts on your forehead, nose, or chin, you may have combination skin.
Uneven texture: Combination skin may have an uneven texture due to the different needs of the dry and oily areas. This can result in a bumpy or rough texture, particularly on the forehead and nose.
Makeup doesn't last: Makeup may wear off quickly in the oily areas, while the dry areas may look patchy or flaky. If you notice that your makeup does not stay put throughout the day or appears uneven, you may have combination skin.

Question 4

What are the most common skincare concerns for people with combination skin?

Accepted Answer

People with combination skin may experience a variety of skincare concerns due to the different needs of the dry and oily areas of their face. Here are some of the most common skincare concerns for people with combination skin:

Dryness: The dry areas of combination skin may be prone to flakiness, tightness, and roughness.
Oiliness: The oily areas of combination skin may be prone to excess sebum production, which can lead to shine, clogged pores, and breakouts.
Breakouts: Combination skin can be more prone to breakouts due to the excess oil production in the T-zone.
Enlarged pores: The T-zone may have larger pores than the rest of the face, which can contribute to blackheads and whiteheads.
Uneven texture: Combination skin may have an uneven texture due to the different needs of the dry and oily areas.
Sensitivity: The dry areas of combination skin may be more sensitive to harsh skincare products, while the oily areas may be more resilient.
Aging: Combination skin may be more prone to premature aging due to the drier areas of the face.

Question 5

How often should you exfoliate if you have combination skin?

Accepted Answer

If you have combination skin, you should aim to exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on your skin's needs. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can improve the appearance and texture of the skin. However, it's important not to overdo it, as excessive exfoliation can cause irritation, dryness, and sensitivity.

When choosing an exfoliant for combination skin, look for a gentle chemical exfoliant. These types of exfoliants are effective at removing dead skin cells without being too harsh or abrasive.

You may also want to consider using a physical exfoliant, such as a scrub or exfoliating brush, but be sure to use these sparingly and with caution, as they can be too harsh for the dry areas of combination skin.

Overall, it's important to pay attention to your skin's response to exfoliation and adjust your routine accordingly. If you notice any signs of irritation, dryness, or sensitivity, cut back on the frequency of exfoliation or switch to a gentler exfoliant. By finding the right balance, you can keep your combination skin looking and feeling healthy and radiant.

Question 6

Can certain makeup products exacerbate combination skin symptoms, and how can you avoid this?

Accepted Answer

Yes, certain makeup products can exacerbate combination skin symptoms, such as excess oil production, dryness, and irritation. Here are some tips for avoiding these issues:

Choose products formulated for combination skin: Look for makeup products that are specifically designed for combination skin. These products are typically formulated to address both oily and dry areas of the face and can help balance the skin.
Use oil-free or water-based products: Makeup products that contain oil can exacerbate oiliness in the T-zone, so it's best to choose oil-free or water-based formulas. These products will be lighter and less likely to clog pores or contribute to excess oil.
Avoid heavy or greasy products: Heavy or greasy makeup products, such as thick foundations or creamy concealers, can clog pores and exacerbate oiliness in the T-zone. Look for lightweight, sheer formulas that will not contribute to excess oil.
Moisturize before applying makeup: It's important to keep the skin hydrated, even if you have oily areas. Applying a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer before makeup can help keep the skin balanced and prevent excess oil production.
Use a primer: A primer can help create a smooth, even base for makeup and can also help control oil and shine. Look for a primer specifically formulated for combination skin.
Remove makeup before bed: Leaving makeup on overnight can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. Be sure to remove all makeup before bed with a gentle cleanser and follow up with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Overall, it's important to choose makeup products that are appropriate for your skin type and to pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products. By choosing the right products and following a consistent skincare routine, you can keep your combination skin looking and feeling its best.