Now, before you go out and by skin care products, the first thing you should know is your skin type. We all come in different shapes and sizes… and different types of skin. So which one is yours?
Skin types vary depending upon factors: water content, oil and sensitivity level.
There are five different types of skin types: normal, oily, sensitive, dry and combination.
Normal
If you have normal skin, it is neither too dry or too oily. It has few imperfections, no severe sensitivity, barely visible pores and a radiant complexion.
Oily
Oily skin can produce enlarged pores, dull or shiny complexion and blackheads, pimples and other blemishes. Oiliness can change depending on the time of the year or the weather. It can worsened by stress and too much exposure to heat.
Tips for Oily Skin:
Wash your face twice a day- once in the morning and once before bed.
Use a gentle cleanser and do not scrub!
Remember oily skin still needs to be moisturized. Try using water based or oil-free moisturizers.
Exfoliate once a week to remove dirt and oil in your pores.
Sensitive
If you have sensitive skin, it could be for a variety or reasons and the trick is to find the trigger. Could it be the kind of fabric you’re wearing or sleeping on? Face care products? Allergies? Sensitive skin can be red, itchy, burning and dry.
Tips for Sensitive Skin:
Use sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
Stay hydrated.
Wash your skin thoroughly and moisturize.
Test products before apply them.
Dry
Dry skin types produce almost invisible pores, dull complexion, red patches, less elasticity and more visible lines. When exposed, skin can crack, peel or become irritated and itchy. Dry skin can be caused by aging, weather, genetics, long and hot baths, or ingredients in soaps, cosmetics and cleansers.
Tips for Dry Skin:
Take shorter, cooler baths.
Use mild, gentle soaps and cleansers and do not scrub while bathing or drying!
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Oils and creams may work better than lotions.
Combination
When it comes to combination skin, it can be dry or normal in some areas and then oily in others (such as the T-zone). There are more people with combination skin. It can produce overly dilated pores, black heads and shiny skin.
Tips for Combination Skin Type:
Balance is key! Use products that work for combination skin.
Avoid using harsh scrubs which can cause irritation.
Protect your skin with sunscreen daily.
Use a weekly face mask to balance out your skin.
Don’t use products that have fragrances, oils, alcohol or irritants.
Knowing your skin type is absolutely necessary in order to make the right decisions for skin care products, treatments and make-up. Also, the health and beauty of your skin depends on what you eat and how you take care of yourself. Put the right nutrients into your body and it will thank you in return!
So, what is your skin type?
