Are You Taking the Right Steps to Care for Your Skin?

Are You Taking the Right Steps to Care for Your Skin?

Studies have found that matching a good skin care regimen with a healthy lifestyle is the best way to slow the signs of aging.

Skincare Quiz

What is My Skin Type and How Do I Know?

Have you ever tried some “amazing” new skincare product only to have it do nothing, or make your skin worse? It might have been wrong for your skin type.

You’ve probably heard or read somewhere that when it comes to beauty and skincare, you should be using products formulated for your skin type. Skincare products aren’t one-size-fits-all magic potions (although, wouldn’t that make life soooo much easier?), so it’s important to know what type of skin you’re working with so you can get the most out of your skincare routine.

Today, I’m excited to help you identify your skin type and figure out some of the best products to care for your fabulous skin!

Why do I need to know my skin type?

In order to practice your most effective skincare, it’s absolutely important to know your skin type. Back in the day, ladies had a limited selection of skincare items to choose from, like those perfumey “all purpose” cold creams on your grandma’s bathroom counter. Today, there’s an unending variety of formulas tailored to care for our unique skin types, but they only work their best if you use the one meant for your skin!

If you misdiagnose your skin type and use the wrong products, it can aggravate skin and lead to irritation, excess oil, breakouts or drying out skin which can make wrinkles more apparent.

Skin Type vs. Skin Conditions

It’s important to note the difference between skin type and skin concerns when it comes to care and treatment. Concerns can include things like wrinkles or signs of aging, hyperpigmentation or temporary dryness and can span across different skin types. For instance, many people think that acne-prone skin is a type; however, people with all types of skin can struggle with acne.

Skin conditions might also change over time, or can be affected by environment, age or hormone changes. For example, your skin may get more oily in summer but needs to be slathered with lotion in the winter. Or you might experience more acne or oily skin as a teenager, or at certain times in your cycle. In these cases, your skin concerns may have changed, but your skin type typically remains the same.

Keep this in mind when choosing skincare products. You may have to find some separate ones to tackle temporary concerns, but you should get a solid skincare routine of products that match your skin type.

What Determines Skin Type

  • Simple Genetics– The biggest one is your genes, which decide how dry/oily or sensitive your skin will be. And, you might inherit your skin type or issues from dear ol’ Mom and Dad.
  • Climate– Relocating to a new environment can change your skin type, sometimes for the better!
  • Hormones– Our hormones fluctuate at different times in our lives – including pregnancy – which can affect our skin’s behavior.
  • Medications– Your Rx might cause your skin to become drier or more sensitive as a side effect.
  • Diet/Allergies– Your daily noshes can definitely affect your skin for better or for worse. Talk to your doctor if you think a food allergy might be the source of your skin woes.
  • Skin Care – As I mentioned, using the wrong formula can throw off your skin’s balance. Let’s get you on the right course for your best skin!

How to Identify Your Skin Type

Determining your skin type can be done with a simple test. Just follow these steps!

Step 1: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove all makeup, oil, and dirt.

Step 2: Pat face dry with a soft towel and leave skin bare. Don’t apply any moisturizers or serums. Let your skin act naturally.

Step 3: Wait for 1 hour. During this time don’t touch your face (resist temptation!). After an hour, look closely and note the quality of your skin.

Now that you know how to find your skin type, let’s dive in and learn a little more about the characteristics of each one and what you can avoid to keep the skin on the right track!

While it’s not a hard and fast rule, skin types can commonly fall into different age groups. Teens and those in their early 20’s typically experience more oily skin as this is when sebaceous glands are most active. Mid to late 20’s and early 30’s usually have combination skin. And, mid 30’s and older tend to lean toward dry skin since our skin loses its ability to produce oil and retain moisture as we age.

Dry Skin

How to IdentifyIf your skin feels tight or itchy year round, especially after cleansing, or you never feel like you can get enough moisture, you have dry skin. You might also experience some flakiness or scaling (when you lightly drag your nails across your skin, it looks like a snowstorm).

It’s also important to note that there’s a difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin. Dry skin is a skin type caused by a lack of oil production in the skin. Dehydrated skin is caused by a lack of water and is a temporary skin condition due to climate, environmental factors or not drinking enough water.

CausesSkin that is genetically predisposed to produce less oil (or sebum), hormone imbalance, dry climate, heaters during cold weather, hot showers/baths, medications, and age (metabolic changes can cause our skin to get drier and thinner as we get older).

What to AvoidAlcohol and sulfate-based products, which can strip your skin’s natural oils. Also, try not to use super hot water when showering or bathing since it wicks moisture from the skin. If you use a heater or live in a dry climate, consider getting a humidifier for your home or bedroom.

Oily Skin

How to IdentifyYour skin is shiny, or you notice a lot of excess oil on your face, neck, shoulders, and back. You may feel like you want to wash your face again midday when oil production is at its peak. Your pores appear larger or get clogged easily, leading to black/whiteheads, pimples or cystic acne.

CauseThe skin’s sebaceous glands overproduce oil (sebum) due to genetic makeup. Other causes can include hormones, humid climates, or over-drying your skin which forces it to produce more oil.

What to AvoidOil-based cleansers, moisturizers, and makeup. Your skin can only absorb so much moisture, the rest is left sitting as a residue on the surface of your skin. Also, look for products that aren’t alcohol-based or contain sulfates which can dry out skin. It might seem counterintuitive, but many products formulated to treat oily skin strip it of its natural oils which it needs for moisture and protection. When your skin senses that it is dry, it actually produces more oil as a defense mechanism, which can just make things worse!

Combination Skin

How to IdentifyYour skin is oily, has larger pores, or breaks out in your T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), but is dry or normal on your cheeks and jawline. Combination skin can be tricky to treat since you have to address two different issues. Your goal: balance.

CauseGenes, or overproduction of oil in the T-zone. Your products might also be causing some skin imbalance. If you’re attempting to treat the oily areas, you could wind up drying out the dry areas and vice versa.

What to AvoidAlcohol-based products which are too drying. You also don’t want to use any products formulated for oil control or ultra hydration to treat your entire face. Either use separate products to target the oily T-zone and dry areas, or look for something that can restore skin’s balance.

Normal Skin

How to IdentifyYour skin is pretty even-keeled, not much – or only occasional – oil, dryness or breakouts which go away quickly. You don’t really experience reactions to products, and your complexion appears balanced.

CauseGenes, you lucky duck!

What to AvoidThough normal skin is one of the easiest types to care for, it’s also one of the first skin types to show signs of aging. Don’t forget to include some anti-aging and hydrating products in your skincare routine. And don’t wait! Start as soon as your early 20’s for good prevention. Also, make sure and back off from any product that causes a shift in skin to become more oily or dry.

Sensitive Skin

How to identify: If your skin is easily irritated or inflamed, or is itchy, dry or gets red easily, congratulations! You’ve won the sensitive skin lottery. Your skin may react when using a new product, flush easily with heat, or you always get those pesky razor bumps when you shave. People with sensitive skin might also sunburn easily or experience conditions such as eczema or rosacea.

Cause: Unfortunately, there are a number of things that can contribute to skin sensitivity, and it can be tough to pin down a single cause. There are, of course, genetics and. And, the products you use (makeup, lotions, soap, laundry detergent, etc.), can include fragrances or harsh chemicals which can aggravate skin sensitivities or allergies.

What to Avoid: Products with lots of synthetic fragrance, heavy dyes or harsh chemicals. Anything that contains ingredients that might inflame potential allergies or irritations. It’s best to stick to basic ingredients which means, yes, some days you might just want to use a little coconut oil as a moisturizer.

A good rule is to always do a 24-hour test patch on skin before applying a new product to your entire face. Become best friends with samples, don’t waste your money or time returning a product you ultimately won’t be able to use.

How to Care for Your Skin Type

Now that we’ve figured out your skin type, I’m happy to share with you my favorite products to care for your unique skin so it can be your ideal skin!

For Oily Skin

Skin Script Glycolic Cleanser

This lovely cleanser removes excess oil while gently exfoliating skin and neutralizing acne-causing bacteria. It also includes antioxidants and nourishing ingredients to boost skin’s health and leave you with a smooth, refreshed complexion.

Dermalogica Oil Control Lotion

If oily skin is your concern, then look no further! This lotion absorbs excess oils and controls oil production throughout the day providing your skin with a nice, matte finish. It also clears pores, neutralizes breakout bacteria, and soothes skin by reducing inflammation. Say so long to oil and

For Dry Skin

Epicurean Silk Radiance 3-in-1 Cleansing Oil

If you have dry skin, it can be hard to find a cleanser that doesn’t rob your skin of all moisture. I’m excited to present this new addition to our product family! (Available September 19.) You will love this silky formula that transforms from a gel to oil to a milky cleanser while you’re using it (3-in-1!). It includes antioxidants and a lipid-rich formula to restore your skin’s moisture and suppleness, so you can moisturize while you get skin squeaky clean.

Dermaquest Radiant Skin Facial Oil

A potent blend of oils brings you glowing skin in this formula. Safflower oil delivers ultra moisture to the skin, while Jojoba oil heals and nourishes skin with boosting vitamins. Your skin is left fresh and radiant.

For Combination Skin

Epicuren Herbal Cleanser

This great cleanser is designed for those with dry/combo skin. It includes vitamins and antioxidants to nourish and fortify skin, and the formula is sulfate-free so it won’t strip your skin of natural moisture and dry it out. This herbal cleanser soothes inflammation, moisturizes and restores balance.

Eminence Organics Red Currant Balancing Concentrate

Specially formulated for combination skin, this treatment nourishes and hydrates while restoring balance to the skin. It provides anti-aging benefits by improving skin’s elasticity and utilizing antioxidants to protect against free radical damage. This lightweight, soothing formula can be worn under makeup as well as applied as a treatment in your nightly skin routine!

Eminence Organics Balancing Moisturizer Duo Green Tea T-Zone Mattifier

This moisturizing duo is tailor-made for combination skin. One side is an antioxidant and vitamin-rich green tea formula that controls oil production and refines pores. The other side soothes and moisturizes skin while promoting skin repair. This amazing formula reduces T-zone oil production by up to 42%! That’s a powerful combo skin duo!

For Normal Skin

Skin Script Normal/Combination Skin Kit

If you want all your skincare in one place, this kit is for you. It includes ingredients to revive dull skin, remove impurities, hydrate skin, provide anti-aging benefits and so much more! In this kit you get:

  • Green Tea Antioxidant Cleanser – purifying cleanser that also protects the skin with antioxidants
  • Cucumber Toner – provides a uniformly smooth complexion while diminishing the appearance of pores
  • Retinol 2% Exfoliation Scrub – lifts away dead cells and impurities to improve the luster of the skin
  • Glycolic and Retinol Pads – exfoliate the skin while providing anti-aging benefits
  • Peptide Eye Serum – revives tired eyes, eliminating signs of fatigue while lifting the skin for a more youthful look
  • Vitamin C/Green Tea Serum – soothes, cools, and rejuvenates the skin for improved vibrance
  • Acai Berry Moisturizer – showers the skin with hydration while protecting it from premature aging

For Sensitive Skin

Dermalogica UltraCalming Cleanser

This cleanser is created for those with even the most sensitive skin. It deep cleans to remove impurities while soothing redness, irritation, and inflammation on contact. It also restores skin’s pH balance and includes no artificial ingredients, fragrances, or colors so it won’t irritate your sensitive skin.

Final Thoughts

There are no good or bad skin types, just different ways that our skin behaves. Fortunately, we now have products that are formulated to treat the skin we have, and that’s why it’s so important to find the right one for you!

No matter what type of skin you have, make sure you’re using the products that will offer the most benefits and allow you to take the best care of your skin so it can be its beautiful best!

What is your skin type? Have you found any tips or tricks that help care for your skin? Share your experience with us in the comments section!

Article by: Sakah Vanessa

  • Sandrine

    Sandrine

    22/11/2018

    I have a lot of acnes,,need help

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      23/11/2018

      Do’s:

      Wash your skin twice a day (morning and before bed) with a mild soap-free cleanser to remove oil.
      Wash your face after you exercise as oil builds up and can clog pores.
      Wash your face well after you come in contact with oils or grease such as working in a fast food restaurant.
      Wash your hands before touching or rubbing your face and try not to rest your chin, cheek, or forehead on your hand. Just think of all of the things you may have touched during the day with your hands! Breaking this habit may help to clear up most of your problem areas.
      Wash your hair regularly especially if it’s oily. Oil from your hair can make your face and neck extra oily.Use “oil-free” sunscreen when you know you’ll be outside in the sun. Antibiotics and other acne medicine can make your skin burn faster with sun exposure.

      Don’ts:

      Don’t scrub your face or use harsh soaps; you can’t scrub acne away but you can make your acne worse if you are too rough when washing your face.
      Do not use alcohol based cleansing products. Products with a high percentage of alcohol can make your skin very dry and irritated. It can actually cause your body to make more oil that can result in more acne.
      Don’t pick, pop or squeeze pimples or anything on your face no matter how tempting! All that poking can cause more inflammation and possibly leave you with a scar.
      Do not use moisturizers or sunscreens that have oil in them. Look for a label that says “oil free” and make sure you use a “facial” moisturizer, not a “body” moisturizer.Keep hair gels, hairspray and other hair products away from your face as they can clog your pores. Wash your face after you use these products to keep oils away.

  • Yimbu Louis Marinus

    Yimbu Louis Marinus

    22/11/2018

    Very Amazing to know about my skin.

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      23/11/2018

      Im glad you found it educative

  • Cyprain Lionel Jr

    Cyprain Lionel Jr

    22/11/2018

    A very comprehensive and informative write up.Keep it up.

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      23/11/2018

      Thank you very much

  • Ashley

    Ashley

    22/11/2018

    Where can I find those products?

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      23/11/2018

      Where are you based? You must not get the exact products but what u can do is look for those that have these ingredients in them. Putting those above is just to serve as a guide

  • Yvan

    Yvan

    22/11/2018

    Very cool

  • Patricia

    Patricia

    23/11/2018

    Very Helpful. Please where can I get the products ?

  • Patricia

    Patricia

    23/11/2018

    Very helpful. How do I get the products?

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      24/11/2018

      My pumpin these products are just guides, however you can buy these exact products on Amazon

  • Marina

    Marina

    23/11/2018

    Aww,great one Vann

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      24/11/2018

      Mayern thnks boo ?? the sky is our spring board

  • Bi nkwenti

    Bi nkwenti

    23/11/2018

    Very educative writeup Inns more grease

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      24/11/2018

      Insssyy thnku. If u can appreciate this means its really good. Thnku for the encouragement ??♥️

  • bestniya3va

    bestniya3va

    28/11/2018

    Siiisss… dnt mind dt my comment is comx jst now, rem “d best are saved fo d last”. Amazing article❤️?

    • Vanessa

      Vanessa

      07/12/2018

      Thnku sis. The sky is our spring board

  • bestniya3va

    bestniya3va

    28/11/2018

    Aww siiisss ds is great…am so proud of u? Kip ds up, we’ll meet in front. ?❤️
    #SupportYourOwn?

  • tecnewsnow.com

    tecnewsnow.com

    13/04/2019

    This means your skin might be tight, flaky, or exhibiting fine lines while a layer of oil sits on the surface of your skin. Sound all too familiar? Not to worry, friends! I’m happy to help you identify some causes of this tricky skin combination, tips for treatment and let you know what the best products for dehydrated skin are!

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