Give me 5...Products to combat combination skin
Cruelty-free and vegan!
By Jess Moody
Combination skin can be a nightmare. Finding products which are not (a) over-drying, and (b) oil-producing can seem tricky, especially since there are so many products on the market. Balance is key to conquering it. I have whittled down my top five (tried and tested) products to combat combination skin.
1. Cucumbers Calming Micellar Cleansing Water
Yes To (Boots, Beauty Bay) / £7
TOP TIP: take your makeup off everyday, even after going out. I know it feels like an effort, but sleeping with makeup on blocks your pores and results in a build-up of dirt and bacteria. Suitable for even sensitive skin, this gentle micellar water cleanses and removes makeup without over-drying. With soothing cucumber and aloe, and anti-inflammatory witch hazel, Yes To Cucumbers effectively cleanses the skin. Saturate a cotton pad, and gently swipe across the face and neck.
2. Herbalism Fresh Cleanser
Lush / £8.50
I started using this a few months ago, and I LOVE it. Unlike chemical-filled face washes (which tend to be drying), this handmade cleanser revitalizes the skin and smooths the complexion. Suitable for sensitive skin and everyday use, this scrub containing ground almonds and rice-bran gently exfoliates without being harsh. Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as nettle, rosemary and rice vinegar, Herbalism effectively removes bacteria and dirt. With rose absolute and chamomile – both excellent for calming the skin and reducing redness – this cleanser leaves your face feeling soft and looking radiant. It’s also vegan, and as with all other products, you get a free face mask every time you return five clean Lush pots!
3. Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
The Ordinary / Beauty Bay / £6.75
Belonging to the Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) family, Glycolic Acid is a naturally occurring substance which removes the outermost layer of skin cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin. An excellent alternative to Pixi’s Glow Tonic (and half the price), this Toning Solution treats scarring, blackheads, acne, oiliness and dullness. Containing aloe vera, ginseng and pepperberry to reduce irritation related to acid use, it aids collagen production to plump and firm. Use once a day after cleansing using a cotton pad, preferably PM (not to be used on sensitive or broken skin!)
4. Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
The Ordinary / Beauty Bay / £5
Blemishes and excess oil on the skin are caused by excess sebum. This high-strength serum regulates sebum production to ensure pores remain decongested, thus dramatically reducing the appearance of existing blemishes, as well as preventing future outbreaks. Known as vitamin B3, niacinamide hydrates and protects the skin from environmental aggressors which, when used over time, reduces redness and controls oil production. Combined with Zinc, which heals damaged skin and increases collagen, this serum is a must for combination skin. Use AM and PM on oily areas after toning, by patting into the skin.
5. Disciple Discovery Kit
Disciple / Cult Beauty / £17
If you are going to purchase anything from this list, I HIGHLY recommend giving these a try - I can honestly say they have saved my skin. Containing two different formulas, one for AM and PM, these balancing oils contain essential fatty acids and probiotic burdock root which adapt to your skins individual needs and help rebalance hormones. ‘Good Skin’ (for AM) is a lightweight formula containing the likes of cucumber seed, lavender and tea tree, all excellent for improving skin elasticity and fighting bacteria. ‘Dreamy Skin’ (PM), with ingredients such as rosehip, jasmine, and watermelon seed oil, regenerates skin cells whilst you sleep and reduces inflammation. Upon awakening, the skin feels soft and glows. Use 3-4 drops before your daily moisturiser and as a last step at night.
Establishing a skin-care routine is a process of trial and error. Products which work for one person may not work for you. Make sure you check ingredients, and aim for products containing mostly natural ingredients where possible!
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