How to Identify and Care for Your Skin Type

Before you can decide which product(s) to use as part of your skincare routine, you must know what type of skin you have.  There are three main skin types and you may have one or a combination of these.  The three categories of skin classification are: normal, oily, and dry.  People often confuse the classification of their particular skin type because of use (or overuse) of certain products.  Let's discuss identification of each type and how to best care for your individual type of skin.

Normal skin is well hydrated and appears soft, moist, and plump.  This type of skin does not show wrinkles or fine lines.  People that seem to have a healthy glow usually have a normal skin type.  If this sounds like you, be sure to properly cleanse your skin twice a day (morning and evening) and moisturize to keep your skin hydrated, especially at night.  You want to avoid overuse of exfoliating products, but occasional use is good for normal skin.

If you have oily skin, you may be surprised to learn that with proper care, this is actually the preferred skin type as it can help delay the effects of aging.  Oily skin appears shiny and firm.  The pores may appear enlarged (and appear even more so when the skin is dehydrated.)  Oily skin may have blemishes and usually will feel oily to the touch.    People tend to aggravate oily skin by misusing skincare products, especially harsh soaps, astringents, and scrubs.  If you have oily skin, you should cleanse the skin thoroughly, but gently, twice a day.  You should use a morning and evening cream to help skin retain suppleness and moisture while regulating oil gland secretion.

Dry skin is often worsened by the aging process, but may appear at any age.  Skin in this category is often dehydrated, and has problems retaining moisture since oil production, which normally acts as a natural barrier against moisture loss, may lessen with age.  Dry skin is usually thin and delicate.  Pores are hard to see and the skin wrinkles easily and has fine lines.  Care for dry skin includes using products that leave a layer on the skin to keep in moisture.  Use a good skin nourishment and lubrication system, including use of hydrating masks.

Regardless of your skin type, adequate protection against the sun should be used at all times when you will be outside during the day.

All of this information was taken from Milady's Skin Care & Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary by Natalia Michalun with M. Varinia Michalun.  Be sure to check out this book if you are interested in learning more about three skin categories and the six skin conditions that you might experience.