The Book of Beauty

Whats Your Skin Type?

Skin types include normal, oily, dry, and sensitive. Some people also have a combination of skin types in different areas of their skin.
Your skin type can change over time. For example, younger people are more likely than older people to have a normal skin type.

Skin types vary depending upon factors such as:

Water content, which affects your skin's comfort and elasticity
Oil (lipid) content, which affects your skin's softness
Sensitivity level

Normal Skin Types
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Normal skin is not too dry and not too oily. It has:

No or few imperfections
No severe sensitivity
Barely visible pores
A radiant complexion
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Combination Skin Type
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A combination skin type can be dry or normal in some areas and oily in others, such as the T-zone (nose, forehead, and chin). Many people have combination skin, which may benefit from slightly different types of skin care in different areas.

Combination skin can produce:
•Overly dilated pores
•Blackheads
•Shiny skin
•Dry Skin Type
•Dry skin can produce:

•Almost invisible pores
•Dull, rough complexion
•Red patches
•Less elasticity
•More visible lines
When exposed to drying factors, skin can crack, peel, or become itchy, irritated, or inflamed. If your skin is 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:
•Genetic factors
•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
Here are some tips for taking better care of 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.
Apply 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
Oily skin can produce:

Enlarged pores
Dull or shiny, thick complexion
Blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes
Oiliness can change depending upon the time of year or the weather. Oily skin can be caused or made worse by:

Puberty or other hormonal imbalances
Stress
Exposure to heat or too much humidity
To take care of oily skin:

Wash your skin no more than twice a day and after you perspire heavily.
Use a gentle cleanser and don't scrub.
Don't pick, pop, or squeeze pimples. This prolongs healing time.
Use products labeled as "noncomedogenic." They tend not to clog pores.
Sensitive Skin Type
If your skin is sensitive, try to find out what your triggers are so you can avoid them. You may have sensitive skin for a variety of reasons, but often it's in response to particular skin care products.
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Sensitive skin can show up as:

Redness
Itching
Burning
Dryness
The Basics of Skin Care
These tips will help your skin stay healthier no matter its type.

Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Avoid direct sunlight and wear a hat and sunglasses.
Don't smoke.
Stay hydrated.
Wash your skin thoroughly every day and never wear makeup to bed.
Moisturize your skin.