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Combination skin -- skin that's both dry and oily -- can be a bear to deal with from the medicine cabinet to the makeup bag. Combination skin is typically oiliest in the T-zone area, but may have dry patches elsewhere. It also often has blackheads and large pores. To get the most out of your makeup, you have to specifically tailor it to your combination skin.
Prep
Laying the ground work is the key step for any project -- especially applying makeup. Instead of slathering one lotion or sunscreen all over your face, approach the different problem areas with different products. For example, use a hydrating serum or cream on cheeks, where they're driest, but skip a lotion altogether on your T-zone. Instead, get your sun protection from your makeup. Look for an SPF of 25 or higher in your foundation and powder.
Foundation
Once you've laid a solid foundation, you'll be able to use one product on your entire face. Choose a matte liquid foundation or pressed powder -- the choice is yours. You may want to try a powder during the summer when it's humid and a liquid during the winter when skin needs extra hydration.
Concealer
When zits strike, you know to go running to concealer, but this little trick can help with plenty more than just pimples. Because your skin is both oily and dry, you may want two different formulas -- one liquid and one solid. The liquid variety is perfect for masking red, blotchy patches caused by dry skin, or hiding dark circles under your eyes. The solid, in stick or compact form, is better formulated for hiding acne. With either product, dab it on with a concealer brush and pat -- don't rub! -- it in gently with your finger.
Cheeks and Eyes
Cheeks and eyes tend to be the driest areas of the face. Quench your peepers with an extra-rich eye serum or cream, and don't feel tied down to powder products. When your eye area is its driest, go with a cream eye shadow. The same goes for cheeks. A cream blush appears dewy and warm, whereas powder blush can look flat or fake on dry skin. On the other hand, when your skin is more moisturized or the weather is muggy, powder products are best.
