Skincare Tips: How Do You Know Your Skin Type?
We all desire clean skin, some of us have skincare routines, but we do not get the desired results despite using expensive skin care products.
The first step of every skin care routine should be truly understanding your skin type!
WHAT DOES ‘SKIN TYPE’ MEAN?
Skin type refers to the classification of a person's skin based on its unique characteristics such as oiliness, sensitivity, and resilience. If you are looking to make an informed decision about your skin, it is crucial that you know how skin care products affect your skin. The following factors are important to consider:
Skin type can change due to factors such as age, hormones, and lifestyle.
Not having a complete understanding of your skin type can damage your skin.
Consult certified dermatologists if you are unsure of your skin type.
Proper skincare and sun protection are essential for maintaining healthy skin.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SKIN?
Skin type is generally determined by genetics, although there can be other factors that affect the skin.
Different types of skin are classified based on varying criteria. One such method is Fitzpatrick's classification, which was first introduced in 1975. This method takes into consideration factors such as skin colour and how it reacts to sun exposure.
It is important to note that skin health is often affected by constant exposure to sun, ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin damage, including sunburn, premature ageing, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
“UV rays can also cause inflammation and discolouration, and can lead to the development of dark spots and uneven skin tone.”
The method is used to determine the appropriate level of sun protection and predict the risk of skin cancer. However, from a cosmetic perspective, skin is classified based on its balance of sebum production, hydration, and sensitivity.
There are five main types of skin: normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive.
Normal Skin: Normal skin is well-balanced, with no excessive oiliness or dryness. It is generally free from any pigmentations, blemishes and has a smooth texture.
Oily Skin: Oily skin is characterised by an overproduction of sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and acne.
“Teenagers and young people between 20–30 years old can generally have oily skin, if not treated well can lead to acne, blackheads and pimples.”
Dry Skin: Dry skin is most often characterised by a lack of oil and moisture, which can lead to roughness, flaking, and itching. It may appear dull and have visible lines.
Combination skin: Combination skin is a combination of oily and dry skin, with some areas (such as the T-zone) appearing oily and others (such as the cheeks) appearing dry.
Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin is easily irritated by skincare products, cosmetics, and environmental factors. It may be prone to redness, itching, and rashes.
It is important to note that Sensitivity refers to how easily the skin reacts to external factors and can be present in all skin types.
Skin can be influenced over time due to internal and external factors, that’s why it is important for one to understand the skin type they have before trying new skin care products.
How To Understand Your Skin Type?
There are many methods to understand your skin type. Here are some of the most common ways to understand your skin type:
The Barefaced Test: Clean your face and go without makeup or skincare products for a day. Observe your skin throughout the day and note any areas that are oily, dry, or have blemishes.
The Blotting Paper Test: Press a blotting paper or tissue to different areas of your face (forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks) and note how much oil is absorbed. If the paper absorbs a lot of oil, your skin is likely oily. If it absorbs very little, your skin is likely dry.
Skin type test to do at home: “Wait and Watch test”
This test you can do at home will help you identify your skin type by observing how your skin behaves after cleansing.
To begin, cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and pat it dry.
Wait for 30 minutes. If your skin looks shiny all over, you probably have oily skin.
If it feels tight, dry and flaky, it's likely that you have dry skin.
But, if the shine is only present in the T-zone, it's likely that you have combination skin.
However, If your skin feels hydrated and comfortable, but not oily, you likely have normal skin.
It's crucial to keep in mind that any skin type can be sensitive or prone to acne, even if normal skin is less likely to have these issues. By using appropriate chemical free products, you can maintain your skin's health while addressing sensitivity and acne. If unsure, consult a board-certified dermatologist for a personalized evaluation and advice on the best skincare regimen for your skin type.
