What’s Your Skin Type?

You’ve heard the buzz about normal, oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin types. But which one do you have? It can change over time. For example, younger people are more likely than older folks to have a normal skin type. What’s the difference? Your type depends on things such as:

How much water is in your skin, which affects its comfort and elasticity
How oily it is, which affects its softness
How sensitive it is

Normal Skin Type Not too dry and not too oily, normal skin has:

No or few imperfections
No severe sensitivity
Barely visible pores
A radiant complexion

Combination Skin Type Your skin can be dry or normal in some areas and oily in others, such as the T-zone (nose, forehead, and chin). Many people have this type. It may need slightly different care in different areas. Combination skin can have:

Pores that look larger than normal because they’re more open
Blackheads
Shiny skin

Dry Skin Type You may have:

Almost invisible pores
Dull, rough complexion
Red patches
Less elastic skin
More visible lines

Your skin can crack, peel, or become itchy, irritated, or inflamed. If it’s very dry, it can become rough and scaly, especially on the backs of your hands, arms, and legs. Dry skin may be caused or made worse by:

Your genes
Aging or hormonal changes
Weather such as wind, sun, or cold
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from tanning beds
Indoor heating
Long, hot baths and showers
Ingredients in soaps, cosmetics, or cleansers
Medications

Use these tips to help your dry skin:

Take shorter showers and baths, no more than once daily.
Use mild, gentle soaps or cleansers. Avoid deodorant soaps.
Don't scrub while bathing or drying.
Smooth on a rich moisturizer right after bathing. Ointments and creams may work better than lotions for dry skin but are often messier. Reapply as needed throughout the day.
Use a humidifier, and don't let indoor temperatures get too hot.
Wear gloves when using cleaning agents, solvents, or household detergents.

Oily Skin Type You may have:

Enlarged pores
Dull or shiny, thick complexion
Blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes

Oiliness can change depending upon the time of year or the weather. Things that can cause or worsen it include:

Puberty or other hormonal imbalances
Stress
Heat or too much humidity

To take care of oily skin:

Wash it no more than twice a day and after you sweat a lot.
Use a gentle cleanser and don't scrub.
Don't pick, pop, or squeeze pimples. They'll take longer to heal.
Look for the word "noncomedogenic" on skin care products and cosmetics. This means it won’t clog pores.

Sensitive Skin Type It can show up as:

Redness
Itching
Burning
Dryness

If your skin is sensitive, try to find out what your triggers are so you can avoid them. There are many possible reasons, but often it's in response to particular skin care products.Why Does It Matter? Before you buy skin care products, it’s a good idea to know your skin type and other things that contribute to the look and feel of your skin, like:

Your skin complexion. Does your skin burn easily, rarely, or never?
Your skin care goals. Are you trying to prevent premature aging? Do you have a skin problem, such as acne or rosacea, or other concerns, such as dark circles under your eyes or fine lines?
Your personal habits. Do you smoke? Do you spend a lot of time in the sun? Do you take a daily vitamin? Do you eat a well-balanced diet? All these factors may affect how you should care for your skin.

This information can help you sort through skin care products for those that suit you. If you need help, ask a dermatologist or an aesthetician at a skin care counter for recommendations.The 6 Basics of Skin Care No matter what type of skin you have, these tips will keep it looking its best.