Do You Know Your Skin Type?
Believe it or not, many people are unsure how they would categorize their skin. Is it dry? Oily? What does it mean if I only have breakouts sometimes?
Read through my post below to help you determine this critical piece of info and then what products can best help you target concerns based on your skin type!
The 5 Major Skin Types... Explained.
Normal Skin: This skin type is what we think about when we see photoshopped photos! Not too dry, not too oily, an even skin tone with little to no imperfections, texture, or spots. This skin type can generally handle most products and has the right amount of moisture naturally.
Dry Skin: Dry skin happens when our skin's natural moisture barrier doesn't have enough lipids or natural oils to add the protective layer we need to protect our skin from a number of things. Dry skin can also occur because of environmental conditions (hello dry deserts or harsh winters) or even because we are dehydrated! As always, our diet has a huge impact on EVERY part of our body, even the skin.
Oily Skin: This skin type is marked by shiny, greasy skin generally caused by excess oil production. This excess oil is usually caused by an internal imbalance (hormones, food sensitivities) rather than external factors. Oily skin types unfortunately are also the ones who generally have larger pores and/or acne prone. However, that doesn't mean this skin type should skip moisturizing!
Combo Skin: Combo skin is just that, a combo of a few skin types! Little bit of dryness (probably around the outer edges of face) and a little bit of oiliness (hi, shiny t-zone) make for a tricky time to treat both concerns at once. Reaching for oil-free products and lightweight moisturizers is a safe place to start, then address the extra dry areas with richer products as needed.
Sensitive Skin: Probably the most difficult skin type to treat, sensitive skin can manifest itself via rosacea, eczema, redness, itchiness, or just hyper-sensitivity to certain products breaking out in rashes where applied. Less really is more for this skin type so those with sensitive skin should focus on using gentle products with ceramides and/or calming properties and avoid harsh acids, fragrance, sulfates, and essential oils.
The Ideal Skincare Routine - Regardless of Skin Type.
I know, I know - we just figured out our skin type (and maybe you fall into more than one category!) but regardless, layering skincare is the same for everyone. the specific products will vary based on skin type but ideally here is what we should be shooting for.
Best Products for Each Skin Type
Within the framework above, lets walk through some of the best products for each skin type.
Normal Skin: What we all strive for. Normal skin users should use a gentle cream-based cleanser, hyaluronic acid and sunscreen to maintain a hydrated, healthy skin type.
Dry Skin: This skin types CRAVES hydration. Using cream or lotion-based cleansers, hyaluronic acids, ceramides, glycerin and squalane products are all amazing for dry skin. Use a thicker cream moisturizer or face oil at night to seal in moisture while skin repairs itself overnight.
Oily Skin: Look for products that are gel based and oil free. oily skin needs hydrating but you don't want to use heavy creams. Products such as toners, AHA/BHA chemical exfoliants, and mineral sunscreens are great for oily skin.
Combo Skin: Combo skin can be tricky, and it's always better to be conservative. Look for gentle exfoliants like glycolic acid (not physical scrubs), ceramides, antioxidant serums, and niacinamide.
Sensitive Skin: This skin type is often combined with one of the other skin types above. Look for products that are fragrance free, sulfate free, have no essential oils, and alcohol free. Gentle cream-based cleansers, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and natural ingredients such as aloe vera and shea butter are your friends here!
Comments