How to Determine Your Skin Type?

1. WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF SKIN TYPE?

Skin type refers to the characteristics of a person’s skin, including its thickness, oiliness, sensitivity, and tendency to develop certain conditions such as acne or dryness. There are several different categories of skin type, but according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), there are five primary types of skin: normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Each skin type has its own set of features, attributes and needs, also it can affect your skin complexion and texture. Understanding your skin type can help you choose the right skincare products and routines to maintain healthy skin.

2. HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR SKIN?

To figure out your skin type, you can follow these steps:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Do not use any products on your skin for at least an hour.

2. Wait for about an hour and observe your skin. If it feels tight and dry, you have dry skin. If it feels oily and shiny, you have oily skin. If it feels both dry and oily, you have combination skin. If it feels normal, neither too dry nor too oily, you have normal skin.

3. Check your pores. If they are large and visible, you have oily skin. If they are small and not very noticeable, you have dry or normal skin.

4. Consider any existing skin conditions. If you have acne, you may have very oily skin. If you have eczema or dermatitis, you may have dry or sensitive skin.

3. HOW MANY TYPE OF SKIN ARE THERE?

Understanding your skin type and using products that cater to its specific needs can help you achieve healthier, more radiant skin. There are generally five different types of skin: normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive.

1. Normal skin- Normal skin is well-balanced and has a good amount of natural moisture. It is not too dry or too oily and does not experience many blemishes or breakouts. Normal skin has a smooth and even texture, with small pores that are barely visible.

2. Dry skin- Dry skin is characterized by a lack of natural moisture and often feels tight and rough. It may also be prone to flaking, itching, and cracking. Dry skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, ageing, hormonal changes, and environmental factors such as cold weather, harsh soaps, and excessive sun exposure.

3. Oily skin- Oily skin produces excess sebum, which can make the skin look shiny and greasy. It may also be prone to acne and other blemishes. Oily skin typically has larger pores, a thicker texture, and a more uneven appearance than other skin types.

4. Combination skin- Combination skin is a mix of both oily and dry skin types, with some areas of the face being oily (such as the T-zone) and other areas being dry (such as the cheeks). Combination skin can be challenging to manage, as it requires different skincare approaches for different areas of the face.

5. Sensitive skin- Sensitive skin is easily irritated by skincare products, environmental factors, and other triggers. It may be prone to redness, itching, and dryness. Sensitive skin can be caused by genetics, environmental factors, and the use of harsh skincare products.

Remember, skin type can change over time due to various factors such as age, diet, and environment. It is important to regularly assess and adjust your skincare routine accordingly.