Skin Types 101: Which Skin Type Are You?
There are many skin conditions a person can have, but there are only four skin types; oily, dry, combination, or normal. In this article, we’ll discuss the characteristics of each skin type, and by the end you will be able to identify your own skin type.
What is a skin type?
A skin type is the defining characteristics of your skin and how it functions like sebaceous secretion, hydration, and sensitivity levels. Skin types are often genetic, although it can be affected by other factors such as your environment, and can change over time.
What are the different skin types?
Dry Skin
As with all skin types, they are usually genetic. However, dry skin is also often caused by external factors such as weather, low air humidity, and hot water. In extreme cases, the skin can be so dry that it cracks - allowing exposure to bacteria which can result in skin disorders like eczema.
Dry skin is generally characterized by the skin feeling tight, itchy, or dry after cleansing. Dry skin is rarely oily, even at the end of a long day - and those with dry skin may even experience dry patches or flaking skin mid-day.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is mainly characterized by excessive sebum production, and is usually determined by genetic or hormonal causes. It’s very common for adolescents and people under 30 years old to have oily skin, and is usually related with the occurrence of acne.
Oily skin can be identified by shiny or greasy skin by mid-day regardless of the season, frequent breakouts, and large/visible pores.
Combination Skin
Combination skin presents characteristics of both dry and oily skin, often oily skin in the T-zone while the skin on the cheeks is normal or dry. You may have combination skin if you have visible pores concentrated in the T-zone. Those with combination skin often experience acne and dry patches at the same time.
Normal Skin
Normal skin types are uncommon, they are neither too dry nor too oily. Those with a normal skin type have regular texture, often no imperfections, and a soft appearance to the skin. This skin type does not need any special care.
You may have a normal skin type if you rarely experience breakouts or sensitivity to products. As well as only experiencing dry patches or excessive oiliness seasonally, or not at all.
Takeaway
Knowing your skin type is essential to maintaining healthy skin. With this knowledge, you will be able to find the products and ingredients that are most beneficial to your skin. If you’re still having trouble identifying your skin type, make a profile and one of our Dermava estheticians will be happy to assist you!
