How do I Choose the Best Moisturizer for Combination Skin?

Combination skin is defined as facial skin that is oily in some areas and dry in others. Moisturizer for combination skin is specifically designed to moisturize all areas of the face in order to keep the skin evenly moisturized and better balanced. Choosing the best moisturizer for combination skin depends on which problem is worse, oil production in the oily areas or flaky skin in the dry parts. Gel cream moisturizers often are a top pick of makeup artists for combination skin because they are non-greasy, oil-free and light in texture.

On the face, oily parts of combination skin usually include the forehead, nose and chin, and the dry areas often include the cheeks. Acne and blackheads can result from too much oil in the "T zone" — the forehead, nose and chin — and flaking and wrinkles can develop on drier areas. All skin types require moisturizing, including combination skin, because properly moisturized skin keeps helps prevent infection. There are numerous moisturizers on the market, such as gel creams, that are designed to moisturize the skin lightly without adding to oil production.

When choosing a moisturizer for combination skin, look for products that are water-based, with descriptions such as "oiliness reduction," "pore tightening," "light texture," "non-greasy" and "rejuvenating." Never choose a product that contains oil, because the dry areas of combination skin do not require more oil, and T-zone areas will become even greasier. Acne-fighting moisturizer for combination skin should be avoided, because acne treatment ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid will dry the cheeks too much.

It always is a good idea when choosing a moisturizer for combination skin to pick one that contains an ultraviolet (UV) light filter with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more in order to avoid skin damage from the sun's rays. Sun damage results in early wrinkles and aging of the skin, and it can cause skin cancer. The excess drying of the skin as a result of sun damage also can cause further oil production to make up for overly dry skin.

Combination skin, like all skin types, also requires moisturizing the skin around the eyes. Cream moisturizers often are the best pick for this thin area of skin. Distribute a small amount evenly under the eye and on the lid, moving up toward the brow bone.

Combination skin requires thorough and consistent care, including cleansing and toning before moisturizing. You should wash combination skin twice a day with a gentle cleanser and toner. Cleansing skin more than twice a day will lead to oil overproduction. Dry areas of the skin should be exfoliated during the winter to keep skin smooth. Whichever product you choose, it is important that it is used consistently and is distributed evenly all over your face to give your skin better balance.