Determining Your Skin Type: A Simple Test

We all have unique skin types that require specific care and attention. Based on a person’s skin type, some products maybe too drying, heavy, cause irritation, and frankly, some textures can be very uncomfortable. With so many skincare trends and marketing schemes promising the perfect solution, it can be challenging to know what’s best for our skin. However, understanding your skin type is the first step to achieving healthy and radiant skin. In this article, we will discuss a simple 30-minute skin test that can help determine your skin type.

Step 1: Cleanse

Start by washing your face with a mild cleanser for 40–60 seconds that is neither overly drying nor hydrating. Some highly recommended cleansers are listed below.

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Paula’s Choice Ultra gentle cleanser $6, 30 ml

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Step 2: Leave It Be

After cleansing, do not apply anything on your face and let your skin dry.

Step 3: Examine

Look at your face in the mirror and even touch it with your index fingers. Touch your cheeks, chin, forehead, and nose. Where does it feel dry, oily, or irritated?

Dry Skin Type

If your skin feels dry overall and tight when you smile, you have dry skin. Dry skin requires moisture in the form of ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, propylene glycol, amino acids, and other humectants, which can be very beneficial for dry skin types.

Oily Skin Type

If your skin feels oily overall, you have an oily skin type. Oily skin requires moisture as well. So, if you are not using any form of moistuizer because your skin is oily, you are causing more damage. This is because lack of moisture causes sebum glands to produce more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration. This can further clog pores and ultimately cause acne. Exfoliation about twice a week is also recommended for oily skin types along with Niacinamide. Niacinamide is Vitamin B3 or an amide version of it, that helps regulate sebum production while soothing and hydrating the skin. You can learn how acne forms here

Combination Skin Type

If your skin feels dry in certain areas and oily around the T-zone (forehead and nose), you have combination skin. Managing combination skin can be challenging because using the same products all over the face may not be the best option. It is recommended to use a cream-based hydrating cleanser, acne-fighting, and oil-free products on the T-zone, and good moisturization on the cheeks.

Sensitive Skin Type

If your skin feels red or irritated, you have sensitive skin. Sensitive skin can be combined with any of the skin types above, and special care is necessary to have the best experience with skincare.

Normal Skin Type

If your skin neither feels dry nor oily, and has minimal texture, you are blessed with a normal skin type. A cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen are usually enough to maintain healthy and radiant skin. Anti-aging products like retinoids, Argireline, and amino acid-containing serums can be added if you desire some wrinkle management.

In conclusion, determining your skin type is essential for achieving healthy and radiant skin. Use this simple 30-minute skin test to determine your skin type and choose the right products that suit your needs. If you have any questions or need a free personalized regimen, feel free to consult with a skincare professional or use this guide to help you get started. Remember, the key to beautiful skin is understanding what works best for you!

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Sources:

The National Skin Care Institute: “Skin Types,” “Skin Types: Dry Skin,” “Skin Care.”

Arizona Dermatology “how-to-determine-your-skin-type/”

My Personal Dermatologist