Have you ever walked into the cosmetics section of a department store and felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of beauty products? With so many choices, do you often find it difficult which product to pick?
While you may be tempted to try out that new product everyone is talking about, or the one your favorite actress is currently endorsing, you should ask yourself: Does it address my skin’s needs? Is it right for my skin type? Without knowing and understanding your skin type, and buying products that are not right for it, you’ll be doing your skin more harm than good – you might as well put your money straight in the trash.
There are 5 skin types: Dry, Oily, Sensitive, Combination, and Normal. Our genes, environment, and habits all play a part in determining our skin type. Read on to see which one is yours.
Dry
A person with dry skin often experiences itching, flaking, and tightness of the skin. This could be caused by the underproduction of sebum, which is genetic. It could also be caused and aggravated by the weather, habits, and the product one uses. If you have dry skin, use gentle cleansers that will not further strip it of moisture. Exfoliating, hydrating, and using moisturizers are a must. Since dry skin lacks natural moisture, it is also more prone to having fine lines and wrinkles. Use essences and treatments to prevent these. Look for products with collagen and snail filtrate that plump up the skin and have amazing anti-aging effects.
Oily
Oily skin, on the other hand, is caused by the overproduction of sebum. People with oily skin are more prone to irritation and acne. They must be more mindful of their Cleansing rituals, as dirt and excess oil can clog pores that lead to unsightly blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. If you have oily skin, look for products with soothing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial tea tree, or salicylic acid which helps unclog pores and gently exfoliate the skin.
Don’t even think of skipping your moisturizer just because you have oily skin – you skin will make up for it by producing more oil! You could use lighter, non-comedogenic formulas. Deep cleansing treatments are also beneficial. Be careful not to use harsh beauty products that dry out the skin, too.
Sensitive
People with sensitive skin often experience redness and irritation. They could also have the problems associated with dry and oily skin, such as flaking and acne. If you have sensitive skin, use products that are gentle and free of allergens such as fragrances, synthetic dyes, parabens, and benzophenone.
Combination
People with this type have dry skin in some areas while oily in others – usually the T-zone . They may also have sensitive skin. Caring for combination skin is trickier, since it requires different products, or in differing amounts, for various areas of the face. For example, if one has an oily T-zone, she should put extra moisturizer on her cheeks, or use a lighter formula on her forehead, nose, and around the mouth.
Normal
If you do not, or seldom experience the problems mentioned in the first four types, then you have normal skin – lucky you! Stick to your beauty regimen and you’ll be fine.
Everyone, regardless of skin type, will benefit from gentle, allergen-free products, as well as proper Cleansing, Toning, Exfoliating, Hydrating, and Moisturizing, and Sun Protection. Use essences to address particular skin problems such as premature aging and acne. Treat yourself once or twice a week with sheet masks that address your particular skin type and concern.