Which cleanser should be used for combination to oily skin types?

Combination and oily skin types are characterised by an excessive production of sebum, but with distinguishing features. A combination skin displays a duality: certain areas of the face, particularly the T-zone, which includes the forehead, nose, and chin, are prone to excess sebum, while the cheeks remain normal to dry. An oily skin, on the other hand, is marked by a greater production of sebum across the entire face. It is often recognised by its shiny appearance, irregular texture, and its tendency towards blemishes, such as blackheads and enlarged pores.

Combination to oily skin types must juggle two factors, sometimes difficult to combine, when choosing a facial cleanser: eliminating excess sebum without however damaging the hydrolipidic film. Indeed, while a highly detergent cleanser may seemingly appear to be a good idea, by completely eliminating the skin's protective lipids, it risks irritating the skin and sending it a warning signal: in response, it may compensate by producing even more sebum, thereby creating a vicious cycle. That's why it's preferable to opt for a cleanser that is effective yet gentle, and of course non-comedogenic.

Contrary to popular belief, combination to oily skin types also need to be hydrated and their barrier function must be preserved. Therefore, it is essential to choose a gentle cleanser that does not disrupt the hydrolipidic film, to avoid a rebound effect of sebum synthesis.

Regarding the galenic formulation, it is generally recommended to choose a cleansing gel, a product with a light and fluid texture capable of effectively removing excess without leaving a greasy residue on the skin. As for its formulation, we advise you to opt for a cleansing gel containing purifying active ingredients, such as zinc or tea tree essential oil, or exfoliants, such as fruit acids. By removing dead cells from the horny layer, exfoliants prevent them from obstructing the sebum's evacuation through the skin's pores, a process already complicated when sebum is present in large quantities.

Lastly, we advise avoiding harsh sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), which can irritate and dry out the skin and, as mentioned earlier, cause a rebound effect in sebum production. It is better to opt for gentle cleansing agents, like surfactants derived from coco-glucoside or decyl-glucoside, which clean the skin without causing harm. For a gentle cleanse, also ensure your cleansing gel includes humectants, such as glycerine or panthenol.

Product Recommendation : At Typology, we offer a variety of cleansers, some of which have been specifically formulated for combination to oily skin types.