SKIN TYPES: A LESSON IN THE BASICS
How do you select a product for your face? The answer could range from brands and ingredients to special offers and celebrity endorsements. But, how about ‘skin type’? Knowing your skin type is important because different skin types have different needs and react differently to various beauty products. Using products that are not suitable for your skin type can lead to a range of issues, including irritation, dryness, breakouts, and even allergic reactions.
So, if you have oily skin and you use a moisturizer that is too heavy or rich, it can clog your pores and cause breakouts. And, if you have dry skin and you use a product that is not hydrating enough, it can increase dryness and lead to flakiness.
By understanding your skin type, you can choose products that are specifically formulated to meet your skin’s needs. This can help you achieve better results and prevent negative reactions or side effects. Once you know what skin type you have, it becomes easy to care for it.
Yes, you are now nodding your head, saying that ‘oh, I know all about skin types; they are oily, dry and normal. What is the big deal about it? My skin is sometimes oily and sometimes dry, but that happens, right?’
There is more to skin types than you might know. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are five main skin types: Dry, oily, combination, sensitive and normal. So, you might be wrong about products and skincare procedures that you have been following for years.
There are a few ways to test your skin type.
Bare-faced method: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and do not apply any moisturizers, serums, or other skincare products. Wait for an hour and then examine your skin. If your skin feels tight and looks flaky or rough, you most likely have dry skin. Shiny and greasy? Oily skin. The skin feels comfortable and looks balanced, you most likely have normal skin. If you have areas that are oily and other areas that are dry, you most likely have combination skin.
Blotting paper method: Take a blotting paper or tissue paper and gently press it on your face in different areas. Hold it up to the light and examine the paper. If it has oil spots all over, you have oily skin. If it only has oil in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), you have combination skin. If there are no oil spots, your skin is most likely dry.
Skin reaction test: Apply a small amount of a gentle cleanser or toner to your skin and wait for a few minutes. Tight and flaky- dry skin, red and irritated – sensitive skin, oily and shiny – oily skin. If it feels comfortable and looks balanced, you most likely have normal skin.
It’s important to note that these tests are not fool-proof, and you may have a combination of different skin types in different areas of your face. It is always best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional to determine your skin type and recommend the best products for your needs.
Here are a few products from Soilscents for different skin types.
And, please do remember; whatever the type, keep the skin clean, adequately hydrated, and protected from UV light. Then, your natural beauty will shine and glow.
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