Choosing the Best Sunscreen for Combination Skin
Finding the right sunblock to suit combination skin can be tricky. Unlike normal or oily skin types, combination complexions have both oilier areas (usually the T-zone on the face) as well as dry zones on the cheeks, jaws, and around the eyes and mouth.
Thankfully, with so many sunscreen options available today, you can find products that won’t over-dry patchy areas yet also won’t clog pores and cause breakouts in greasier spots.
Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreens
The first decision is whether to use a chemical or mineral based sunblock for your combination skin.
Chemical Sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens use ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, and more to absorb UV rays. They soak into skin allowing a lighter feel, but some chemicals can irritate sensitive skin or cause acne breakouts.
Mineral Sunscreens
Mineral sunblocks use natural ingredients like zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to sit on top of skin, reflecting and blocking sun’s rays. They are less likely to cause irritation or breakouts, but often leave a whitish cast and thicker feel.
Tips for Choosing a Sunscreen for Combination Skin
Keep these tips in mind when selecting a sunblock tailored for your combination skin:
Pick Gel or Lotion Formulas
Light, fast-absorbing gels or lotions work better for combination skin instead of thick creams that feel heavy. Lotions provide a bit more moisturization for any dry zones.
Try Combination Formulas
Many sunscreens now mix some chemical filters along with mineral blockers like zinc for balanced protection without heavy feel. Or layer a lotion over a mineral primer.
Use Oil-Free Options
Avoid sunblocks with added oils which can clog pores and lead to breakouts on already oily areas. Oil-free formulas are best for acne-prone skin.
Don’t Overlook Sun Protection in Makeup
Tinted moisturizers, foundations, primers, and powders now often contain sun blocking ingredients. Just be sure to apply enough to get stated SPF coverage.
Try Products With Mattifying Ingredients
Sunscreens containing silica, cornstarch, or other mattifiers can help soak up excess oil on shinier zones without drying out normal areas of combination skin.
Top Sunscreen Ingredients to Treat Combination Skin
Certain ingredients beyond just SPF filters can also tailor sunblocks to suit the needs of combination skin.
Niacinamide
A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide not only provides additional sun protection but also calms inflammation, minimizes pores, controls oil and acne breakouts, and helps balance uneven skin tone.
Hyaluronic Acid
Naturally found in skin, hyaluronic acid acts like a sponge to attract and retain moisture. Its hydrating properties relieve any tight or dry areas on the cheekbones, eyes, and mouth.
Ceramides
Ceramides make up a large part of skin’s outer protective barrier. Adding ceramide concentrates to sunscreen helps seal in moisture to prevent dry tightness on patches of cheek skin.
Glycerin
Derived from plant oils, glycerin is an excellent hydrator for combination skin. It acts by drawing moisture from the air to help soften and supplement skin’s own natural oils.
Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a silicone-based polymer often added to mineral sunscreens. It glides over skin for easy application, while providing a smooth matte finish that controls oil and shine for hours.
How to Apply Sunscreen to Combination Skin
To get the most protection and skin balancing from your sunscreen, proper application is key.
Start With a Clean Face
Wash with a gentle cleanser before applying sunscreen so there’s no excess oil, makeup residue, or dead skin interfering with absorption.
Apply Individually First
Start by smoothing sunblock only on oilier areas first like the nose, forehead and chin using about a dime sized amount for just the face. Allow to soak in for a few minutes.
Follow Up With All-Over Application
Then apply another nickel sized amount all over your face including the normal and drier areas like cheeks, around eyes and mouth. Blend evenly and thoroughly.
Reapply Every 2 Hours
Remember sunscreen filters break down over time with sun exposure and sweating. So reapply another thin layer to your whole face every 2 hours for ongoing protection.
Shopping for the Best Sunscreen Product for Your Skin
With an endless number of sunscreens out there, try some of these top-rated products formulated specifically for combination skin:
Cetaphil Sheer Mineral Face Liquid SPF 50
A lightweight mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide plus nourishing niacinamide tailored for mixed skin tones.
Neutrogena Clear Face Break-Out Free SPF 30
An oil-free chemical sunscreen from a classic brand with acne-fighters designed not to clog pores or cause new breakouts.
Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense SPF 30
A velvety physical block containing smoothing silicones that helps control shine on the T-zone for hours after application.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid SPF 60
A fast-absorbing European sunscreen combining chemical and mineral filters specially developed for acne and hyperpigmentation prone combination skin.
Take some time to analyze your skin’s needs, then try a few options to discover your perfect sunblocking match!
FAQs
Should I use a chemical or mineral sunscreen for my combination skin?
Many dermatologists recommend layering a mineral sunscreen primer first to avoid acne breakouts, then following up with a lightweight chemical sunscreen lotion on top for balanced protection.
What SPF level is best for combination skin?
Dermatologists advise using a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 at minimum, but an SPF 50 or higher provides the most complete UV ray protection for all skin types.
Can I use an expired sunscreen if I have nothing else?
No, sunscreen ingredients become less effective over time to properly shield skin. Using expired sunblock puts you at higher risk of burns and skin damage.
Should I apply sunscreen differently on my T-zone?
Yes, first apply sunblock only to oilier areas like your forehead, nose and chin to allow absorption. Then follow up with an application to the rest of your face and neck.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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