Recognizing your skin type is important to establishing a solid skin care regimen. Using the wrong products can interfere with your skin barrier and lead to the emergence of breakouts, dryness, or sensitivity. Understanding your skin makes it easier to find ingredients that complement your skin, instead of fighting against it.
It is no secret that those with oily skin feel greasy by mid-day, especially in the T-zone, that is, your forehead, nose and chin. Oily skin commonly faces breakouts and large pores. If you have oily skin, it is very important that you look for lightweight, non-comedogenic products. Gel-based cleansers and oil-free moisturizers will keep the balance, without clogging your pores.
If your skin feels tight or rough, or your face often feels flaky, you likely have dry skin. Your skin may lack the lipids essential for keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable. Heavy nourishing creams with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid are ideal. You should avoid alcohol-based and heavily scented products at all costs because they will likely exacerbate dryness.
Sensitive skin is easily irritated. It can turn red, itch, or hurt at the application of new products or a minor weather change. If a product stings or burns, it's better to stick with calming or fragrance-free skincare and soothing ingredients (like aloe or niacinamide).
Normal skin has a balance of hydration and oil. Although normal skin is relatively free from significant concerns, it's important to maintain a basic skincare regimen that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and SPF.
To test your skin type at home, wash your face, pat your skin dry, and leave your skin bare for 30 minutes. Once the half-hour is up, press a tissue on key areas of your face and look at the oil pattern – that is your skin type!
Whether you have oily, dry, normal, or sensitive skin, adding a brightening serum to your beauty routine and wearing a daily SPF will do wonders to maintain healthy glowing skin.