Combination

Combination skin follows the density of oil glands across the face. Sebaceous glands cluster most heavily on the forehead, nose and chin, the strip usually called the T-zone. That area shines while the cheeks, which carry far fewer glands, stay normal or run dry. The bare-face test shows it plainly: at 60 minutes there is visible shine along the nose and a tight feeling across the cheekbones.

Zoning is the answer, and it costs less time than it sounds. A lightweight lotion goes everywhere, a richer cream goes on the cheeks only, and a light powder sets the T-zone only. Foundation follows the same logic, with a natural or matte base through the center and nothing extra at the perimeter. Cleanser stays gentle across the whole face, since the drier zones cannot take a wash chosen for the oily ones.

Split-the-difference products disappoint. A single moisturizer marketed for combination skin usually lands between the two needs and serves neither zone well. That leaves the nose shiny and the cheeks tight. Two products used in two places beat one used everywhere. Seasonal drift matters here more than anywhere else. Many people run closer to oily in summer humidity and closer to dry under winter heating. The split between zones deserves re-checking rather than being fixed once and forgotten.