The Best Skincare Routine for Combination Skin

If your forehead, nose, and chin get shiny while your cheeks stay normal or a little dry, you likely have combination skin. Not sure? See our guide to the 5 skin types or ask Lumi. Combination skin is all about balance: treat each zone for what it needs rather than one-size-fits-all.

What combination skin needs

Combination skin has an oilier T-zone and drier cheeks, so the goal is gentle, balanced hydration that doesn't overload the T-zone or leave the cheeks tight. Lightweight, layerable textures work best, with the option to "multi-moisturise" — a lighter product where you're oily, a richer one where you're dry.

The morning routine

1. Gentle gel cleanser — balances the T-zone without stripping the cheeks.
2. Hydrating toner — a light, balancing layer all over.
3. Niacinamide serum — a great all-rounder for combination skin.
4. Zone moisturising — a light gel on the T-zone, a slightly richer cream on the cheeks if they feel dry.
5. Sunscreen (SPF) — a lightweight formula, every day.

The evening routine

1. Oil cleanser — removes sunscreen and makeup gently.
2. Gel cleanser — the second cleanse.
3. Toner — rehydrate evenly.
4. Targeted treatment — a gentle BHA on the T-zone a few nights a week; a hydrating serum on the cheeks.
5. Zone moisturising — again, lighter where oily, richer where dry.

Extra tips for combination skin

• Multi-masking works well: a clay mask on the T-zone, a hydrating mask on the cheeks.
• Your balance shifts with the seasons — expect an oilier T-zone in summer, drier cheeks in winter, and adjust textures accordingly.

Ready-made routine

Our Start Here set for combination skin is built for this balance, as a Starter Set or a Complete Routine.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. For persistent or specific skin concerns, please consult a dermatologist.