Normal skin may get a bit oily in the T-zone (the area covering your chin, nose, and forehead, in the summer) but doesn’t really get dry and rough. Oily skin is characterized by oil production and large pores all over your face. Dry skin often feels tight and rough because of lack of moisture, gets flaky in winter, feels itchy after swimming or showering, and is accompanied by small pores. Combination skin is similar to normal skin in that there will be some oil production, but you’ll also have large pores in the T-zone. [1] X Research source
Isopropyl alcohol Denatured alcohol Ethanol SD alcohol 40
Wash your face with a dissolving or gel cleanser at least twice daily[4] X Research source Use an alcohol-free toner that contains sodium PCA and witch hazel Use an oil-free moisturizer that contains glycerin Go for a zinc-based sunscreen When it comes to serums, try an AHA, BHA, or retinol serum that will reduce the appearance of pores
Many lightweight moisturizers will have the words “lightweight” or “light” on the label.
Use a mild cleanser that doesn’t foam or lather Avoid all products, especially toners, that contain alcohol Use a hydrating moisturizer with a thicker consistency that contains sweet almond, jojoba, evening primrose, or borage oil Try an antioxidant serum that has vitamins A, C, and E[6] X Research source
Use warm water instead of hot, as hot water can lead to natural oils on your skin being stripped away. [7] X Research source Do not rub or scrub your skin when you dry it, as this can cause damage and irritation.
Consider using a moisturizer with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 for added protection against damaging UV rays. [9] X Research source Make sure you still apply moisturizer after washing your face, even if you choose to skip the toner.
Use sunscreen with an SPF 30 every day of the year, even if it’s the middle of winter. UV rays are just as damaging in winter as they are in summer. Don’t skip the sunscreen just because you use a moisturizer with an SPF.
Washing your face before bed is especially important if you have oily skin or wear makeup. Never go to sleep with makeup on. [12] X Research source
Antioxidant serums are ideal for moisturizing and nourishing your skin. Retinol serums are good for reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. AHA and BHA serums are often used to brighten skin and reduce the appearance of pores. [13] X Research source
There are also chemical peels you can use to exfoliate your skin if you don’t want to use an exfoliating scrub. [14] X Expert Source Mohiba Tareen, MDFAAD Board Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 26 March 2020. Don’t exfoliate more than two or three times a week, as this can damage and irritate your skin. [15] X Research source
New moles Raised moles Moles turning a darker color Moles changing size Open sores Pink growths with raised edges and a lower center Raised red patches Patches of scaly red skin Small bumps Flat yellow areas
Morning and night: cleanse and moisturize Daily: tone, apply sunscreen, and apply a serum if necessary Weekly: exfoliate at least once a week, and possibly twice Monthly: do a self-exam to check for changes and problem areas
For instance, if you start work or school at 9 a. m. , set an alarm for 7 a. m. every day to remind your self to wash, tone, and moisturize your face. Similarly, if you go to bed around 11 p. m. every night, set a reminder to wash and moisturize your face before bed.
For instance, if your skin starts to become drier as you get older, you may need to switch to a more hydrating moisturizer. Similarly, if you start to break out often, you may need to change the type of cleanser you’re using and refrain from picking your face.
