THE DIFFERENT SKIN TYPES AND HOW TO CARE FOR THEM

Having glowing and healthy skin is a dream for many. Unfortunately, most of us are not happy with how our skin looks. The main culprit behind problematic skin is improper skincare routine. The right skincare routine is the one that matches your skin type and targets your individual skin concerns. Generally, the skin can be classified into the following types;

• Oily
• Dry
• Combination
• Sensitive
• Normal

Your skincare routine needs to be in accordance with your skin type and should target problems that are unique to you (fine lines, open pores, acne, pigmentation, or anything that bothers you. In this article, we will explore all different skin types and how you can care for them. Without further ado, let’s get started:

NORMAL SKIN TYPE

Your skin can be classified as normal if:

• It isn’t too oily or dry.
• You have little to no imperfections
• Your pores are barely visible.
• You have a radiant complexion.
• Umm, you are lucky!

SKINCARE FOR NORMAL SKIN TYPE

Now that we have established you have a normal/lucky skin type. Let’s dive into the skincare routine you should follow:

As you don’t have any apparent problems, stick to the basics of skincare; cleansing, toning, and moisturizing. Use a gentle but effective cleanser to clean your face twice a day, followed by a PH balancing toner and a good-quality moisturizer. Don’t opt for anything two oily or mattifying, stick to moisturizers that are made for normal skin. Always wear sunscreen. It will prevent any future skin problems from arising and will protect it from the harmful arrays of the sun.

COMBINATION SKIN TYPE

If you have a combination skin type, you will be quite confused. If your skin is super oily in certain areas such as the T-zone and extremely dry on other areas such as your cheeks, you are dealing with a combination skin type. Your skin can be classified as combination if:

• You have very large open pores.
• You struggle with blackheads and whiteheads.
• Your T-zone is always shiny.
• Your cheeks get extremely dry.

SKINCARE FOR COMBINATION SKIN

First things first, you will have more products than all other skin types. Firstly, get your hands on a gentle cleanser that isn’t too drying or hydrating because you have to cater to both worlds. Next, I would highly suggest you buy two toners; one for dry skin and another one for oily skin. Use the oily one for an oily patch of the skin and the dry one for a dry patch of the skin.

Typically, a gentle moisturizer will work well for you. You can always reapply more on the drier parts. Don’t forget the sunscreen. Another good investment for you is face masks; get a hydrating one and a purifying one and use two masks on different parts of your face to have healthy, balanced skin.

DRY SKIN

If your skin feels dry and stretchy after washing your face and you have to reapply the moisturizer countless times, your skin can be classified as dry. Your skin is more likely to crack, peel, become inflamed, and itchy. If you have dry skin, you will have:

• Nearly invisible pores.
• Dull complexion.
• Rough looking skin.
• Red patches.
• Less skin elasticity.
• More visible fine lines.

SKINCARE FOR DRY SKIN

Firstly, it is important to understand what factors will affect your dry skin and sometimes make it worse. Your genes, hormonal changes, harsh weather conditions, UV rays, indoor heating/cooling, long hot baths and showers, medications, and certain skincare products can make it way worse. Hence, you need to be mindful of all these factors.

First, avoid taking excessively hot showers and use lukewarm water instead. It is important to choose a hydrating cleanser to remove any dirt and impurities from your skin. Avoid using cleansers with sulfate in them. Use a very rich moisturizer to keep your skin nourished.

Add a hyaluronic acid serum to your skincare routine and keep using hydrating mists throughout the day. Use a humidifier at home and opt for a hydrating sleeping mask. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen during the daytime. You can also use vitamin C based products to combat the dullness.

OILY SKIN

A lot of people deal with oily skin, especially in their teen years. It is one of the trickiest skin types to tackle but there is good news for you; you will age well with all that natural oil production of yours.

If you have an oily skin type, you will experience:

• Enlarged pores.
• Shiny and thick complexion.
• Formation of blackheads, whiteheads.
• Acne is one of the major downsides of oily skin.

SKINCARE FOR OILY SKIN

Factors that can impact your skin and make it worse are puberty, hormonal imbalances, stress, heat, and humidity. If you have oily skin, wash it twice a day. Make sure to use a gentle cleanser that is designed for people with oily skin. Use a scrub once a week. Avoid picking at your pimples and use pimple patches instead. Use a hydrating oil-free moisturizer twice a day. Use skin purifying masks once a week. Do not forget to apply a non-greasy sunscreen while stepping out in the sun.

SENSITIVE SKIN

First things first, sensitive skin can be in combination with all other skin types; you can have oily and sensitive skin, dry and sensitive skin etc. If your skin is sensitive, you will most likely experience:

• Redness, especially around nose and cheeks.
• Itchy skin.
• Burning sensation.
• Extreme dryness and skin peeling.
• Allergic reaction to skin products.

SKINCARE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

You need to be extremely cautious with the type of skincare products you use. Try using medicated products and avoid anything that is heavily scented. Use gentle products that are designed for sensitive skin. Keep your skin moisturized and always top it off with sunscreen while going out. Never experiment with new products. If you can, try using products that are made from natural ingredients.

CONCLUSION

It is critical to use products as per your skin type. We hope you found this article helpful. What is your skin type and how do you care for it? We would love to find out.