I have combo skin (oily T-zone, dry-ish cheeks), and today I thought I’d share a quick look at the products currently living on top of my desk. Yes—my desk. Not the prettiest shelfie setup, but this is real life and these are the ones I actually reach for every single day.

I love experimenting with skincare, but I also get overwhelmed easily when my routine has too many steps. So if a product makes it into my daily lineup, it’s usually doing something right (or is too strong to ignore 👀). Some of these are gentle staples, a couple are treatments, and one is prescription-only. I’ve written super short blurbs—just a few thoughts each—so this doesn’t turn into a novel. Think of it as speed dating for skincare.

Let’s get into it. (From left to right)

1. Makeprem UV Defense Me. No Sebum Sun Cream

This is one of the only mineral sunscreens that doesn’t make me look like a ghost. It leaves a soft matte finish without pilling under makeup. Absolute go-to for humid days.

2. Aklief Cream (Prescription only)

3. Innisfree Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Brightening Cream

This smells so fresh and citrusy, and I love the bouncy cream texture. Gives my skin a glow without being too strong. Perfect for AM use under SPF.

4. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ M

I use this as a spot treatment and sometimes all over my T-zone. It helps shrink bumps overnight without drying me out. I’ve repurchased this more than any other acne product.

5. Innisfree Vitamin C Green Tea Enzyme Serum

Layers really nicely in the morning and gives me a healthy, not-greasy glow. I like this more than most vitamin C serums because it doesn’t sting. Not a dramatic effect, but very wearable.

6. Innisfree Retinol Green Tea PDRN Skinbooster Ampoule

Surprisingly gentle for a retinol product. I use this 2–3x a week at night and haven’t had major irritation. I feel like it helps with post-acne marks more than anything else.

7. DERMA FACTORY Niacinamide 20% Serum

Super affordable and super potent. I only use this a few times a week because of the high concentration, but it helps with redness and breakouts. Just make sure to moisturize well afterward.

8. Innisfree Retinol Green Tea PDRN Skinbooster Toner

I use this on nights when I don’t want to commit to a full retinoid routine. It preps my skin well and doesn’t leave any stickiness. A good intro product for retinol newbies!

Final Thoughts

I know that looks like a lot—but honestly, these are spaced out across my routine and used as needed (I’m not slathering retinol and acids all at once, promise 😅). I’m a firm believer in listening to your skin and adjusting based on how it feels. Some days it’s just SPF + moisturizer; other days I go full-layered K-beauty mode. These 8 products have earned a spot on my desk because they actually work for my oily-combo, breakout-prone skin. 💚

Let me know if you’ve tried any of these or want a deep-dive on one!