Treating acne is tricky on its own, but throw in combination skin and things get even more complicated. One part of your face feels oily and congested, while another feels tight or flaky. So, how do you manage breakouts without irritating dry patches or overloading oily zones?
Let’s break it down step-by-step.
First, what is combination skin?
Combination skin means your face has both oily and dry areas at the same time. Here’s how it typically looks:
- Your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) tends to get oily and shiny.
- Your cheeks and jawline are often dry or normal.
This mix can make skincare a bit tricky, especially when dealing with acne. Here’s why:
- Acne treatments are usually made for oily skin, so they can strip moisture from the dry areas and make them more irritated or flaky.
- Rich creams meant to soothe dry skin can clog the pores in your T-zone, leading to even more breakouts.
So, how do you care for combination skin? Here’s how:
Step 1: Cleanse gently but effectively
Look for a non-drying cleanser that clears out excess oil and unclogs pores without disturbing the rest of your skin.
Try: SEREKO Pore-Clearing Wash
With 1% Salicylic Acid, 2% Glycolic Acid & Lactic Acid, this cleanser deeply clears pores while being gentle on dry zones. Bonus: it’s probiotic-powered for skin balance.
Step 2: Exfoliate—strategically
Chemical exfoliants like Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Lactic Acid (AHA) help prevent breakouts by removing dead skin and keeping pores clear.
- Use 2–3 times a week
- Focus on oily, breakout-prone areas
- Avoid physical scrubs—they can cause micro-tears and worsen dryness.
Step 3: Use targeted treatments for breakouts
Instead of slathering acne treatments all over, apply spot treatments or serums only where needed.
Try: SEREKO Clear Corrective Serum
Combines 2% Encapsulated Salicylic Acid, 3% Azelaic Acid, and Niacinamide to treat breakouts without drying out your whole face.
Step 4: Hydrate—don’t skip this
Even oily skin needs hydration. Skipping moisturizer can actually make your skin oilier as it tries to compensate. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores.
Try: SEREKO Oil Clear Moisturizer
Balances oil, hydrates dry zones, and calms redness—all in one airy, skin-loving formula.
Step 5: Always wear sunscreen
Many acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. A non-comedogenic sunscreen will protect your skin without feeling greasy.
Look for sunscreens like Hydra-Protect Sun Mist, SPF 50, PA ++++, with a lightweight formula for all-day sun protection & easy reapplication.
Pro Tips for Combo + Acne-Prone Skin
- Multi-moisturize: Use a light gel on oily areas and a richer cream on drier zones if needed
- Avoid alcohol-heavy toners
- Be consistent: Gentle routines work best over time
- Don’t pop pimples—this can lead to marks and inflammation
- Watch your diet & stress—they both play a role in breakouts
The Bottom Line
Treating acne with combination skin is all about balance.
- Cleanse gently
- Treat acne only where needed
- Hydrate without heaviness
- Protect with sunscreen
And most importantly—listen to your skin. It’s not about drying out acne but about nurturing your skin back to balance.
