Determining your skin type is an important first step in establishing a good skincare routine. There are five common skin types: normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive.
Normal Skin: Normal skin is balanced, with a healthy glow and no signs of oiliness or dryness. If you have normal skin, your pores are small and your complexion is generally even.
Oily Skin: Oily skin is characterized by excess oil production, which can lead to breakouts and shine. If you have oily skin, your pores are often enlarged and visible, and you may experience blackheads and whiteheads.
Dry Skin: Dry skin is characterized by a lack of oil production, which can lead to flakiness, itchiness, and tightness. If you have dry skin, your pores are often small and your complexion may appear dull.
Combination Skin: Combination skin is a mix of oily and dry skin, with some areas of the face being oily (usually the T-zone) and other areas being dry. If you have combination skin, your pores are often larger in the oily areas and smaller in the dry areas.
Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin is easily irritated by certain products or environmental factors, and may experience redness, itching, or stinging. If you have sensitive skin, your pores may be small and your complexion may appear dry or flaky.
Here are some tips to help you determine your skin type.
Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser. Pat it dry.
Wait up to an hour to examine your skin in a mirror. If your skin appears shiny all over, you likely have oily skin. If your skin feels tight or appears flaky, you likely have dry skin. If you have areas of oiliness and dryness, you likely have combination skin. If your skin appears balanced with no signs of oiliness or dryness, you likely have normal skin. If your skin is easily irritated, you likely have sensitive skin.
Keep in mind that your skin type may change over time due to factors such as aging, hormonal changes, and environmental factors. It's important to regularly assess your skin and adjust your skincare routine as needed.