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Writer's pictureChelsea McCurdy

Perfecting Your Combination Skin Makeup Routine

Updated: Nov 8, 2023



Having combination skin can be both a blessing and a curse. If you're reading this article, you probably understand the struggles that it can come with. The delicate balance between oily and dry areas calls for a skincare and makeup routine that addresses both concerns.

I've had the pleasure of working with countless clients with combination skin, and through my experience, I've gathered some invaluable tips and tricks to help you achieve a flawless and long-lasting makeup look. In this blog post, I'll be sharing my insights on how to make the most of your combination skin and help you work with it, not against it.


1. Start with Skincare:

Skincare lays the foundation for a flawless makeup application, and this holds especially true for combination skin. Begin by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities. Follow it up with a toner and then a tiny bit of eye cream. Afterward, apply a light serum and lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that hydrates the dry areas without adding excess oil to the T-zone. A good skincare routine will help balance the skin and provide the perfect canvas for your makeup.


2. Prime for Success:

Priming your skin is crucial to extend the longevity of your makeup. For combination skin, opt for a primer that specifically targets the different needs of your skin. Use a mattifying primer on your T-zone to control shine and minimize the appearance of pores. Simultaneously, apply a hydrating primer on the dry areas to nourish and smoothen the skin texture. This dual approach ensures a balanced canvas for your makeup application.


3. Customized Foundation Application:

When choosing a foundation, finding one that works with both oily and dry areas is paramount. Look for a lightweight, oil-free foundation with a natural finish. Foundations suitable for all skin types are typically ideal- find one with your ideal amount of coverage. If you like the look of dewy foundation, mix a tiny bit of mattifying primer into your foundation and apply the combination to just the oily areas of your face.

Or, apply your chosen foundation on the dry areas to maintain a fresh and dewy look while using a slightly more matte formula on the T-zone to control shine. Blend the two foundations seamlessly to achieve a unified complexion that looks natural and radiant.


4. Strategic Concealing:

How you approach concealer application can sometimes make or break your look. For combination skin, proper spot concealing is critical to achieving a flawless complexion. Use a lightweight, buildable concealer to cover any blemishes or dark spots individually. For the oily areas, set the concealer with a light dusting of translucent powder to prevent creasing. On the dry areas, opt for a creamy, moisturizing concealer to maintain hydration without emphasizing dryness. This targeted approach ensures a seamless finish that doesn't compromise your skin's natural balance.


5. Controlling Shine:


Combination skin often leads to an oily T-zone. Keep oil-absorbing sheets or blotting papers in your bag to control shine throughout the day. Gently blot the areas prone to oiliness to remove excess shine without disturbing your makeup. Avoid over-powdering, as it can make dry areas look cakey. Instead, use a lightweight translucent powder or a matte setting spray for touch-ups to maintain a fresh and balanced look.

  • TIP: Don't forget to hydrate! Becoming dehydrated can cause your skin to compensate with increased sebum production, aka excessively shiney skin.


6. Play with Your Makeup Approach:

When it comes to blush, bronzer, and highlighter, a combination skin type offers you the opportunity to experiment with both cream and powder formulas. Opt for cream products on the drier areas of your face to add a natural, dewy glow. Use powder formulas to control shine and maintain a matte finish on the oily areas. This mix-and-match methodology works with what you were naturally given to create the best balance while enhancing your features.



Combination skin can pose its challenges, but with the right approach, it can become a canvas for creativity. By understanding your skin's unique needs and employing these tips and tricks, you can create a flawless makeup look that embraces your natural skin. Remember, skincare and proper product selection are vital for achieving a long-lasting and balanced result. Embrace your combination skin, experiment, and have fun exploring the endless possibilities that makeup offers!


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