Finding the proper balance for a combination complexion
Atable decked with skincare bottles was suspended above the ground where a nearby pile of coal casts a black silhouette to the hanging art installation displayed at the launch of Aesop In Two Minds collection, held recently at Space, Woof Pack Bangkok.
The installation as well as the name of the new skincare range express the duality of combination skin, which is oily on the T-Zone and dry on cheeks, the latter represented by the coal. The hanging table refers to a balance in sebum production and hydration, required for healthy skin.
“Combination skin is probably the most complex and common skin type particularly among people in warmer climates. The forehead, nose and chin tend to have more sebaceous glands that make the T-Zone more oily along with having more open pores and blemishes,” said Cherry Cheng, Aesop regional training manager. “Skin on the cheeks tend to be dry and more sensitive, such as with redness, which is a sign of rosacea. All in all, combination skin faces pretty much a lot of problems.”
The Melbourne-based cosmetics brand created the new range of cleanser, toner and facial hydrator to address the multifaceted nature of combination skin and restore its balance.
“Cleansing is an important first step every morning and night. Use a mild cleanser that does not strip or aggravate the skin otherwise it will compensate the loss of moisture by producing more oil,” said Cheng. Aesop In Two Minds cleanser, toner and facial hydrator.
In Two Minds Cleanser also contains salicylic acid that gently exfoliates the skin, helps dissolve oily residue and treat blemishes.
“Don’t wash off immediately and wait one minute for salicylic acid to work and sweep off impurities,” she said of using the gel-based cleanser.
Salicylic acid, witch hazel, niacinamide and panthenol are soothing and balancing ingredients blended in the toner, which finishes off the cleansing routine.
The toner is also a moisture magnet that helps restore hydration whereas the facial hydrator further moisturises and nourishes the skin with botanical ingredients such as oils of Andiroba, Copaiba and Acai while leaving a fresh and matte finish.
“A lot of consumers are confused that using moisturiser will make combination skin more oily so they skip this step,” noted Cheng. “Whether combination or dry skin, one has to use a moisturiser with a comfortable texture in maintaining hydration for balanced skin.”