Skin that doesn't absorb well and feels sticky

I have oily skin in the T-zone, but my cheeks are dry due to the recent weather. I usually apply toner, serum, and cream, but my skin doesn't seem to absorb them. So, even in the evening, I only apply up to the serum. During the day, applying the serum is fine, but if I apply cream before putting on makeup, my makeup tends to cake.

I want to improve my skin, so I try to apply some creams that are supposed to be good, but they don't absorb and just pill, so it feels like a waste...

I thought dead skin cells might be the problem, so I've been exfoliating regularly with a peeling product... Could it be an issue with my skin barrier?

Is there anyone who has similar concerns and has seen results through treatments or products?