Accurately assessing and caring for your skin type is key to having that skin that is irresistible to touch and behold. Too many people treat their skin with the wrong products and consequently, instead of improving its condition, they actually worsen it. What’s more, skin type sometimes can change with the seasons, personal environment, health and lifestyle; yours may be different today than it was a few months ago, therefore, it is important to know your current skin type in order to care for your skin in the best way.
Your skin type probably falls into the four major skin type categories, though some people may overlap the categories. Whether you lie in one category or you bridge two; it is important to assess your skin honestly and not judge what you have.
SELF SKIN ANALYSIS:
Looking at your clean and unmoisturized skin in the mirror the following description will help you recognize your skin type and make better decisions about skin care products
NORMAL OR BALANCED SKIN.
- This skin type is usually associated with young skin between birth and puberty. It is very rare in adults.
- Balanced skin is neither too oily nor too dry.
- It is usually free from blemish but may form blackheads and may get a little bit oily on the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin area).
- Smooth, even texture with small pores.
- Cheeks are the driest area, but not excessively so.
- Water and oil content in this skin is balanced.
DRY SKIN
- May look dry or flaky, feel rough and uneven, dehydrated.
- Prone to sensitivity.
- Pores are small almost invisible.
- Feels tight after cleansing.
- Shows fine lines faster than any skin type.
- Dry skin generally lacks natural oil and moisture, basic requirements.
- Thin epidermis.
OILY SKIN
Oily skin is shiny especially through the T-zone (the forehead, nose and chin), it is a condition caused by overactive sebaceous glands.
- Medium to large visible pores on the T-zone, chin and cheek.
- The skin may or may not be prone to acne but often have clogged pores.
- Makeup tends to disappear or slide off oily skin after a few hours of application.
- Because it is well lubricated, it is not prone to fine lines and wrinkles.
COMBINATION SKIN
- Oily through the T-zone
- Dry towards the cheek or side of the face
- T-zones has enlarged pores and visible blackheads or may be prone to minor breakouts or even acne.