What is your skin type: Oily, Dry, Normal or Combination Skin

The first step to beginning your skincare journey is to know what is your skin type. Understanding your skin type will help you know the right products for you. The basic skin types are oily, dry/dehydrated, combination and normal skin. Some people consider sensitive skin a skin type but any type of skin can also be sensitive. Each type of skin has its own unique qualities that can affect the look and feel of your skin.

Skin types are based on the amount of sebum your skin produces. Sebum refers to fat molecules that the body produces to keep skin moisturised.

OILY SKIN

How do you know you have oily skin?

Cleanse your face then wait for around 30 minutes. Use a blotting sheet to pat your face. If you have developed a layer of oil on your skin, you have oily skin.

Oily skin is caused by excess sebum production and, it is genetic as are all skin types. Most people with oily skin suffer from blackheads, whiteheads, acne and in severe cases, cystic acne. All these issues come about when oils, dirt and dead skin get trapped in your pores.

If you have oily skin, then your goal is to prevent your pores from getting clogged. You should use products that contain ingredients like niacinamide, which limits sebum production. Make sure to exfoliate frequently to remove the dead skin and oils stuck in your pores.

One misconception people have is that oily skin does not need to be moisturised. It does. Lack of moisture can lead oily skin to produce more sebum which then leads to acne. Good moisturisers for oily skin are non-comedogenic, light or gel-based.

Some products for oily skin:

Cerave SA Renewing Cleanser

I personally use this product as my main exfoliant. It is gentle and perfect for people with oily skin. Do NOT use daily as exfoliants can damage your skin barrier if overused.

$15 at Amazon

COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, Daily Mild Face Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

Cleanse daily with this gentle and effective gel type cleanser day and night, removing impurities while strengthening your skin barrier.

$29.99 at Amazon

DRY/DEHYDRATED SKIN

How do you know you have dry or dehydrated skin?

Dry skin results from insufficient sebum. People with dehydrated skin sometimes develop dry patches because the skin lacks enough moisture. They can also have rough, irritated skin.

People with dry skin can also develop acne from dead skin getting clogged in their pores. Dehydrated skin can also be rough or bumpy. If you have dry skin, you should aim for products that intensely hydrate your skin. Products with glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acid and snail mucin are great for dry skin. Aim for gentle and soothing products that help maintain the skin’s protective barrier. Avoid products containing alcohol or fragrance as they can irritate the skin.

Some products for dry skin:

HARUHARU Wonder Black Rice 10 Hyaluronic Cream Unscented

This hyaluronic cream will leave your skin feeling supple and hydrated. It is unscented and does not contain harsh ingredients.

$22 at Amazon

ISNTREE Ultra-low Molecular Hyaluronic acid Toner

Most hydrating hyaluronic acid toner out there. It keeps you moisturised all day, leaves skin looking and feeling dewy, and disappears dry patches instantly.

$19 at Amazon

COMBINATION SKIN

How do you know you have combination skin?

People with combination skin produce a lot of sebum on the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), but have dry skin on the cheeks and jawline.

Combination skin can be one of the most difficult skin types to manage. Hydration is key when it comes to managing combination skin. If you have combination skin, use hydrating products that are non-comedogenic. Exfoliate your skin regularly and avoid products that can irritate the skin.

NORMAL SKIN

Normal skin is neither too dry nor too oily. It rarely ever develops acne or dryness. However, that does not mean it doesn’t need to be well cared for. People with normal skin still need quality products to have a glow in complexion, and to keep their skin looking plump and hydrated.

SENSITIVE SKIN

There are several factors that can cause skin to be sensitive. Some factors include dryness, over-exfoliating and acne. To treat sensitive skin, use products with mild, soothing ingredients specifically made for sensitive skin.

It is important to remember that anyone can have sensitive skin. If you develop too much redness, inflammation or acne, seek the help of a board-certified dermatologist for a deeper look into your skin health.