Combination Skin or Mixed Skin Ultimate Hack!

In my dermatology practice, a significant number of patients come in with what's commonly referred to as "mixed skin" or "combination skin." This condition describes a scenario where the T-zone—the forehead and nose—tends to be oily, while the cheeks and chin are dry, sensitive, and prone to various issues like itching and irritation.

 

What many people don't realize is that mixed skin is not an innate condition but rather a product of our skincare habits. Over years of treating patients and analyzing their routines—including my own experiences—I've observed a common thread: nearly everyone with mixed skin admits to using harsh cleansing practices on their face, often doubling down on using more products with appearance of  combination skin. This typically involves hot water, strong detergents, and physical exfoliants. These practices, though well-intentioned, actually disrupt the skin's natural barrier.

 

The T-zone, being more resilient, can tolerate this onslaught to some extent. However, the sensitive lower part of the face eventually suffers, leading to a disrupted skin barrier. This imbalance results in the classic symptoms of mixed skin.

 

My approach to addressing this issue has been straightforward yet transformative: I challenge patients to cease these harsh cleansing practices temporarily. Instead, I advocate for gentle care using lukewarm water and minimal or ideally NO products. Remarkably, within a few weeks, the skin often rebounds. The T-zone regulates its oil production, while the lower face restores its natural barrier function. This approach allows the skin to achieve a more balanced and uniform appearance.

 

In cases where the skin has endured significant inflammation, additional moisturization with occlusive products like petroleum jelly or our shea butter balm can expedite recovery. Rarely, medical intervention with topical treatments may be necessary, depending on the severity.

 

For anyone grappling with mixed skin or seeking optimal skincare practices, I encourage simplifying your skincare. Stepping away from unnecessary products—serums, toners, and aggressive cleansers—can be revelatory. Trust me, your skin will thank you.

Thanks for reading and God bless.

 

Yuval Bibi, MD/PhD - Board Certified Dermatologist