Ok, I *think* I have what qualifies as combination skin....it's super dry when I get out of the shower, but two hours later it's oily on my forehead and side of of my nose (t-zone?). And, I finally just recently came to the conclusion that it's probably sensitive, as every time I try using a different product...I get more of those little whiteheads (milia?) So...any recommendations on what I ought to be using? Any at home fixes? I'm way beyond the struggling part of struggling single mom these days...so I would need to stick to something pretty cheap and easily accesible. Thanks in advance!
I have the same problem you do. I immediately put Olay beauty fluid on my skin after washing/drying my face. Then later I touch up the t-zone (especially the sides of my nose!) with Clean and Clear oil absorbing sheets. I'm not sure though if they are any special face washes that wouldn't require me to do this regimen. It works for now!
I would use gentle cleaning and moisturizing products with few active ingredients and go from there.
I'd recommend Cetaphil or Purpose face wash and Cetaphil moisturzers. I prefer Purpose because my skin is super-oily (and it's cheaper). Purpose is really gentle, but I find that my skin doesn't get oily nearly as fast. The Purpose bar soap is really great and super-economical. I'm a chronic overuser of product and the $4 soap will probably last me a good 5-7 months. I can't say enough good things about Purpose cleansers.
I'd also get some blotting papers like the Clean and Clear ones to get rid of the oily skin. If they aren't enough, maybe try using a primer like Philosophy the Supernatural on your t-zone only.
One other thing to think about is that if you strip too much of your skin's natural oils it will then overcommensate causing really oily skin. So whatever you are using in the shower now sounds like that could be what it is doing.
Oh...btw...I've been using the neutrogena face bar in the shower and a nivea moisturizer. I had luck years ago with the Origins line...but I can't justify the price now. :(
I just switched to a new skin care routine, so far so good.
Clinique dramatically different moisturizing lotion. They have one for dry skins and comfortable to oily in t-zones. I like it much better than Olay.
Also I am now using their clarifiying lotion/toner. Again I love it better than the Loreal Pure Zone.
And finally, since your suppose to put on makeup with a sponge instead of your fingers which could spread bacteria on your face, I'm using sponges. I must say my skin is without a blemish!
Go to a dermatologist once and get their recommendation
Hahaha! Yeah, that's not going to be happening anytime soon. I'm a single mom of a special needs child on a limited budget and I have no health insurance. --- I'll be going with over the counter and drugstore options.
Have you tried reading reviews on makeupalley.com? They have great resourses from all drugstore brands and real reviews from people with how there skin responded to the products.
I always research a brand on makeupalley before I buy it, regardless it it is expensive or not.
Personally , I love cetaphil for an inexpensive face soap for combo skin.