HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR SKIN TYPE

When we talk about product recommendations, the first question we ask is “what's your skin type?” And at some point I realized that a lot of people don't really know the answer to that question.

Knowing your skin type is important for building the most suitable routine. Our observations show that people with oily skin avoid products with oils, and those with dry skin can sometimes drown their skin with heavy moisturizing and nourishing products. And while this can sometimes be effective, balance is key.

It is important to note that the type can change over the years due to environment, hormones and other factors.

THE FOUR TYPES OF SKIN

There are four main skin types: oily, combination, normal and dry. But because nothing in nature is that simple - there are also some combinations. This is what sets skin care apart as well, but more on that later.

Oily skin – refers to a skin condition that produces excess oil. Usually this oiliness is around the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin). Oily skin often looks shiny. Oil build-up can often lead to breakouts and blemishes due to the fact that pores can become clogged.

Combination Skin – As the name suggests, combination skin contains both oily and dry patches. Typically, combination skin types have oily T-zones and normal to dry cheek skin.

Normal Skin - The Promised Land. This is skin that is well balanced and contains the right amount of oiliness. It is usually not prone to rashes or peeling.

Dry skin – Dry skin can be rough to the touch, red, irritated or sometimes even itchy. It can also be prone to blemishes and breakouts due to a broken barrier.

HOW CAN I FIND OUT WHAT MY SKIN TYPE IS?

Start by washing your face with a foaming cleanser, then pat dry or let it dry naturally. After about 40 to 60 minutes, without applying any products (such as toner or moisturizer), carefully examine how your skin looks and feels.

Is there any redness?
Which areas feel tight?
Does it look shiny?

👩‍🦳 Normal skin: If your skin is soft, without noticeable dry patches or excess shine, then you most likely have a normal skin type.

👩‍🦳 Dry skin: If you feel tightness, dryness or noticeable dry patches, then you have a dry skin type.

👩‍🦳 Oily skin: If you have excess shine, larger pores, or are prone to acne, you may have an oily skin type.

👩‍🦳 Combination skin: If you have areas of your face that are oily (most often the T-zone) and areas that are drier, then this is a combination skin type.

👩‍🦳 Sensitive skin: If your skin reacts with redness, rashes or discomfort to many products, you have sensitive skin.

The following combinations are also possible:
If the skin feels tight, hard and has white, dry patches, it is dry and dehydrated.
If it's hard, feels tight, and there's redness on the cheeks and sides of the nose, it's dry and sensitive.
If the skin is oily with redness, then you have sensitive, oily skin.

Once you know your skin type, the second step is to prioritize your goals. Rome wasn't built in a day, and using 20 products a day won't instantly give you glassy skin. Start by solving the problems one at a time until you arrive at the best combination for you.