Articles

Combination and oily skin may seem very different, but they do share some common points. For example, they both require similar forms of acne care, which implies that they can also be treated using common skin care products.

The best way of dealing with this problem is to establish a regular cleansing routine. Sometimes, when treating mild to moderate cases of acne (these include facial and back acne), a regular cleansing routine can be more effective than over the counter acne creams, however, if you're trying to treat more severe cases of acne, then you will need to have medical supervision.

First Step: Cleanse Acne Prone Skin

A soapy cleanser is ideal for both combination skin and oily skin. Cleansers containing salicylic acid or retinol will help stabilize the production of sebum and reduce clogged pores.

Now, please don't confuse "soapy" with soap and water, they are not the same thing. In fact, using soap and water to cleanse your skin will most likely dry it out, unlike a soapy cleanser. This excessive dryness will then trigger the excess production of sebum, which in turn, will lead to clogged pores and acne lesions.

Contrary to popular belief, you can effectively treat oily and combination skin with a natural acne remedy. One of the best natural cleansers for oily skin is milk of magnesia which can be used by simply rubbing onto your skin and then rinsing off with warm water.

Second Step: Toning & Exfoliating

A daily cleansing routine may require a toner. However, it might not be necessary if your cleanser is capable of removing makeup, residue and extra sebum. If you do decide to use a toner, then make sure that it is alcohol-free.

Exfoliating, on the other hand, is a must with oily and combination skin. You should exfoliate once a week. If your skin shows no real change and is still dull, then try exfoliating twice a week.

Fortunately, both oily and combination skin can resist facial scrubs. However, you should be gentle and use a small amount of product. Also keep in mind that excessive scrubbing will cause your body to produce more sebum, just as with excessive cleansing.

Step 3: Moisturize

Just because you have oily skin or combination skin, do not assume that it does not require a moisturizer. Oily skin requires the use of a moisturizer just like with any other type of skin, however, when choosing the right moisturizer for oily skin make sure that you choose a light, water-based moisturizer so that your skin does not feel too coated.

Extra Step: Spot Treatments and Acne Creams

For an acne remedy regime to be successful it should include an acne cream that can be used as a spot treatment. Using an acne cream for spot treatment will help boost the effectiveness of your cleansing routine and minimize any possible irritation to healthy skin.