Before you begin to make the right choices about how to care for your skin, you first need to know your skin type. There are five common skin types including normal, oily, combination, sensitive and dry and the type you are can often change over time as you age.
We’ve compiled this handy guide for you to decide which type suits you best.
How to find out your skin type
As soon as you wake up, gently pat a blotting paper on different areas of your face including your forehead, nose, and cheeks. By holding the sheet up to the light, you should be able to tell how much oil is visible. If the sheet is very little or no oil, it’s likely that you have dry skin, if the sheet has a lot of oil you have oily skin and if the sheet has oil from the forehead/nose you probably have combination skin.
Normal skin
If you’re lucky enough to have normal skin, you’ll benefit from a good circulation, and there will be no trace of oil (also known as sebum) nor will your skin be too dry. Your skin will have a light shiny appearance, will rarely be tight and won’t be prone to much redness.
Oily skin
Those who have oily skin will have what is known as overactive sebaceous glands meaning that their skin produces more oil than is necessary. This leads to the feeling of greasy skin, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, and nose. Oily skin can be caused by hereditary factors as well as changes in your diet, hormone levels, and bad quality cosmetics. If you fall into this category, it is vital that you maintain a regular cleansing routine with gentle products.
Combination skin
Do you have skin that is dry in some areas and oily in others? If so, it’s likely that you have combination skin. This skin type can be frustrating because it can be difficult to find the right balance of products and textures to suit your face. However, the wrong products can cause combination skin too.
Sensitive skin
Falling into the sensitive skin category can differ between people. It is likely that your skin is sensitive because of a condition such as psoriasis, eczema or allergies which will cause it to become easily irritated or inflamed. There are many products marketed at sensitive skin, but it is still important to choose the right ingredients as some can only worsen a potential reaction.
Dry skin
Dry skin has low levels of oil in every area meaning that it often feels tight and could be prone to flakiness. With dry skin, it’s also common to have almost invisible pores, a dull complexion, and more visible lines. Those who have dry skin should use a hydrating moisturiser on a daily basis. Often, a lot of gradual tanning products include just the right level of moisturisation.
Your skin changes over time, so it’s important to check your skin type regularly to know which product suits you best. Keeping up with a skincare routine will reduce signs of ageing and keep your complexion glowing all year round.
