In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with new, buzzy skincare products, it can be hard to know which ones to buy, especially when we’re a little on the fence about our skin type.
Oily, sensitive, combination…raise your hand if you’re a grown woman and you’re still not quite sure.
The thing is, determining your skin type is the first and most vital step towards achieving clear, glowing skin.
Normal skin
“Normal skin is the ultimate goal of cosmetic skincare and is described as skin that is in balance.
Signs of normal skin:
…It is neither oily nor dry.
…Has infrequent breakouts.
…Small, but just visible, pores.
…It feels soft, smooth and comfortable.
…Doesn’t suffer from barrier issues, so isn’t easily irritated or reactive.
Oily skin
Signs of oily skin:
…Shine appears a short time after cleansing.
…Enlarged pores.
…Reddening.
…Thicker, roughened skin.
Acne is often a feature, and scaly patches (seborrheic dermatitis) can also develop.
Dry skin
Signs of dry skin:
…Dull, tight, rough, reddened appearance.
…Scaling/flaking, cracking, irritation and itching.
…Stinging and burning when skincare and cosmetics are applied, which can lead to acutely sensitive skin.
Combint-ion skin
“Combination skin is the most common cosmetic skin type and can possess traits of all previously described skin types,”
Signs of combination skin:
…Typically oily in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and normal or dry elsewhere.
Sensitive skin
“Sensitive skin is a controversial topic! Although it is a widely-reported skin type, and there are a plethora of products designed around it, there is still no consensus amongst dermatologists and scientists about what a sensitive skin type actually is.
Signs of sensitive skin:
…Intolerant to topical cosmetic products.
…Reacting with sensations like stinging, itching and burning.
Visible reactions like hives/redness/peeling when products are applied, especially soon after cleansing.
Now you know a little more about your type, you can choose products that work harder for your skin’s specific needs.
