Before you buy that skincare product, makeup or decide on the skincare routine you need; it is imperative to know and understand your skin type first. So stop whatever you’re doing, and spend a few minutes to read this… It could change your life and skincare game!
Skin types are mostly based on genetics, but can be altered by internal and external factors such as diet, environment, hormones and aging.
Below are some of the basic and most common skin types that exist, and except you have a rare skin type (which is not uncommon) or a skin condition, then find out which skin type is yours?
NORMAL SKIN
This skin type is neither oily nor dry. The moisture level of a normal skin is balanced. The skin pores aren’t easily visible. It is has a smooth texture and has few or no blemishes.
The best possible way to care for normal skin is to follow the basics every skin type needs, including daily use of a gentle, effective cleanser, toner loaded with skin-replenishing ingredients, antioxidants, and a beautifully formulated moisturizer with skin-restoring ingredients and skin-soothing ingredients. 
DRY SKIN
A skin is considered dry when it is low in sebum production. This skin type is as a result of lack of epidermal lipids which act as barriers on the skin against extrenal factors. It can be rough, dull, itchy, easily irritated and wrinkles easily.
Avoid scrubbing, using harsh products or regular washing of dry skin. Always use a rich moisturiser, preferrably oil-based, to prevent it from cracking or peeling.
Also, it is worthy to note that as one ages, the skin gets drier due to deterioration of the entire body system. So as you grow older, it is very much normal that you will have a dry skin type. Increasing your water consumption and checking what goes into your body will help to make your skincare routine more effective.
OILY SKIN
The skin pores of an oily skin are more visible than other skin types. This results in a high production of sebum causing the skin to be glossy and shiny which could lead to blackheads and acne as a result of clogging of the skin pores.
Oily skin requires routine exfoliation and cleansing to get rid of oil buildup. Stay away from thick and heavy skin products, instead, “noncomedogenic” skin products which do not clog pores should be used on oily skin.
COMBINATION SKIN
This is a skin which has a combination of the qualities of both an oily and dry skin. Some areas of the skin is dry while others are oily. A typical example of where combination skin exists mostly is the face whereby the forehead and nose could be oily while the cheeks and chin are dry.
You’d have to take notice of which areas are oily and which are dry in order to show proper care accordingly.
Also, this skin type needs maximum moisture absorption, which should be done using a gentle toner after cleansing. Choose a hydrator that helps restore and balance the skin’s fluctuating moisture and oil levels.
SENSITIVE SKIN
This skin requires extra care because it gets easily irritated and is more prone to reaction than other skin types. People with sensitive skins should always get recommendations from a dermatologist before changing skin products.
Also take note of basic ingredients that your skin reacts to. These are ingredients you should stay away from to have a healthy and glowing skin.
There are many possible reasons for a sensitive skin type, but often it’s in response to particular skin care products.
No matter what type of skin you have, these tips will keep it looking its best.
- Use a broad spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun (most especially now that the suns temperature has been increasingly on the rise). Avoid direct sunlight, and wear a hat and sunglasses as necessary.
- Don’t smoke.
- Stay hydrated.
- Wash your skin gently but thoroughly every day and do not wear makeup to bed.
- Moisturize.
- Get to know your skin type by closely examining it and taking note of its characteristics. Do visit a certified dermatologist or skincare professional.
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