The science part...

This is the most commonly reported skin type and exhibits two skin types on the face. The skin in the T-zone will often be oily, while the cheeks and other portions of the face may be dry and cracking.

Genetics play a large role in determining skin type. It’s likely that you inherited your skin characteristics from your parents and grandparents. There are more sebaceous glands in the T-Zone, which are responsible for creating sebum, the waxy substance that keeps your skin soft and supple. The glands in this area tend to be more active in those with combination skin type, producing excess sebum that can lead to shine and contribute to breakouts. If your mother or father dealt with oily skin in the T-Zone, and battled acne, you're apt to deal with this condition as well.

However, there are environmental factors that come into play. Certain products and lifestyle habits can contribute to combination skin type; using harsh products that contain dry ingredients can trigger your skin to produce excess oil, which can worsen breakouts in the T-Zone while drying out other parts of the face.

Tips for your skin type...

Get Enough Sleep

Getting the right amount of rest each night is important to holistic health, and it also can significantly affect the look and appearance of the skin. Sleep deprivation can result in insulin resistance. Insulin increases can result in the creation of IGF-1, a hormone that stimulates an increase in the production of sebum.

Keep Your Stress in Check

Be sure to manage your stress, as it has been connected to insulin resistance and worsened breakouts in numerous studies. Exercise regularly, and make time for you!

Always Wear Sun Cream

No matter your skin type, it’s important to use daily SPF to keep your skin safe and looking its best. However, with combination skin, it’s important to take a look at the type of sun cream you're using to avoid blocking up those pores. Look for sunscreen gels that are labeled oil-free.

Don’t Forget to Exfoliate

Exfoliation is crucial for all skin types, but those with combination skin can benefit significantly from the right exfoliating products. Exfoliation can help open up and clear out the clogged pores in oily sections of the face, while allowing moisture to penetrate the skin in dry areas. Certain products provide safe chemical exfoliation, or you can use granular scrubs designed to physically scrape off the dead skin cells that can build up in your pores. If your skin is sensitive, be careful not to over-exfoliate.