Having combination skin can seem like an impossible challenge – how does one tend to dryness AND oiliness when they’re total opposites? Through all the hubbub and the noise, we want to clear the air to let you know: it’s totally possible to master a balanced complexion, and it’s not difficult to do so. Sure, it may seem more complicated to care for combination skin compared to other skin types, but the reality is that the course of action isn’t too different to other routines. Once you’ve got the ball rolling and establish a trusted routine, your skin troubles will be resolved in a flash. Below is the ultimate combination skin routine to diminish your dryness, obliterate your oiliness, and maintain an overall strong, nourished complexion. Just keep scrolling for everything you need to know.

Oil-Based Cleanser

iUNIK - Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - iUNIK

We’re big fans of double cleansing and the good news for combination complexions is that they can safely complete their oil cleanse with the iUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil. Made with calming Calendula extract and 94% plant-based oils, this formula rids the skin of buildup and debris while calming sensitivity and restoring balance to the skin barrier. It’s lightweight and doesn’t clog the pores, keeping the skin soft and hydrated after cleansing.

Water-Based Cleanser

Isntree - Green Tea Fresh Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Isntree

Green tea is a great ingredient for combination skin because it has sebum-regulating properties to deal with excess oils; at the same time, it also hydrates the skin and reduces inflammation. You’ll find this multi-tasker in the Isntree Green Tea Fresh Cleanser, a refreshing jam-textured cleanser formulated with Green Tea and quadruple Hyaluronic Acid. Suitable for AM and PM use, it lathers into a dense bubble foam that efficiently washes away any lingering impurities.

Booster Shot

medicube - One Day Exosome Shot Pore Ampoule 7500

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - medicube

Up your skincare game with the medicube One Day Exosome Shot Pore Ampoule 7500, dubbed the ‘dermatologist treatment in a bottle’ that can be obtained minus the high cost of a visit to the derm’s office. This unique treatment is meant to be applied on dry skin right after cleansing to allow penetration of the exosome shots, opening pathways that help your succeeding skincare routine absorb better. Not only does it address enlarged pores and rough skin texture, it also treats hyperpigmentation and fortifies the skin barrier. This version of the booster is intended to be used once every 3 days; for daily use, try the One Day Exosome Shot Pore Ampoule 2000.

Toner

TirTir - Milk Skin Toner Light

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - TirTir

In addition to Centella Asiatica and Panthenol, the TirTir Milk Skin Toner Light features 4% Niacinamide to achieve a perfectly balanced complexion, putting excess sebum in its place. This version of the bestselling Milk Skin Toner is lighter and absorbs into the skin faster than its sister, while still providing abundant hydration and supporting a glass skin glow. It’s especially great for anyone tackling dead skin cells and skin texture, as well as complexions that experience fungal acne.

Essence

KSECRET - SEOUL 1988 Essence : Snail Mucin 97% + Rice

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - KSECRET

KSECRET's SEOUL 1988 Essence : Snail Mucin 97% + Rice is the ideal booster for anyone seeking intense yet featherlight, oil-free hydration. It combines smoothing and elasticity-supporting Snail Mucin with brightening Rice extract, forming an essence that sinks into the skin quickly sans greasiness. Don’t be deterred by the slimy texture of this essence; it emulates the natural texture of Snail Mucin and absorbs efficiently into the skin with light patting and tapping motions.

Moisturizer

Torriden - Balanceful Cica Cream

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Torriden

If its name didn’t give it away, the Torriden Balanceful Cica Cream is essentially made for safe-guarding combination skin. Key ingredients include a 5D Cica Complex to alleviate inflammation and damage, as well as Hyaluronic Acid and Panthenol for balancing hydration levels. Incorporate this refreshing gel cream into your daily routine to reveal a plumped and dewy appearance that’s backed up with a strong and irritation-free skin barrier.

Sunscreen

COSRX - Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - COSRX

Not all sunscreens are suited for balancing dryness and oiliness, but the COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ PA+++ is one you can depend on. This Aloe-spiked SPF offers soothing and moisturizing properties as it cools down a heated complexion, sinking into the skin without any white cast or tackiness. On particularly hot and humid days, feel free to skip your AM moisturizer and go straight in with this hydrating formula to quench and protect your skin in one go.

Sheet Mask

APLB - Glutathione Niacinamide Sheet Mask

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - APLB

Finding that your complexion appears dull and lifeless? The APLB Glutathione Niacinamide Sheet Mask is here to save the day. Niacinamide is an exceptional ingredient that balances oil-water levels, enhances skin texture, minimizes pore appearance and more, proving to be a friend of combination skin. When combined with Glutathione, the duo works magic on elevating skin radiance and combatting signs of stress. Add this mask to your weekly pamper routine for a skin-perfecting pick-me-up.

With this routine in hand, you’re already halfway to mastering balanced skin; shop the routine to achieve your skin goals now! Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!