In order for you to be using the correct products, you first need to know what type of skin you have. The majority have a combination of two or three types but it is essential to be using the correct products, as too much of the incorrect products can cause premature ageing, fine lines, dehydrated dry skin is the products are too harsh. Skin types can change with stress, climates, diet, hormones.
Good skin can make you look healthy. Achieving a clear complexion is a goal for everyone. The appearance, texture and look of the skin is an important factor for most people of any age. The skin is one of the largest organs in the body. The skin reflects emotions, it changes constantly and because of its location it is very vulnerable to damage. Many things including nutrition, hygiene, circulation, age, immunity and genes all affect the state of the skin.
There are four basic skin types: normal, dry, sensitive, and oily.
Normal Skin
Most rare skin type as most people have a combination. The way in which the skin is looked after can be a contributory factor as poor skin care and lack of protection from the environment will soon have a detrimental effect on normal skin. The characteristics of normal skin include :
- skin looks clear
- has an even colour
- doesn't feel tight or greasy
- is soft and supple to touch
Dry Skin
Dry skin is generally lacking in oil that should be produced in the body to keep it soft and supple. It may be caused by environmental factors such as wind, sun, cold temperatures, drying it out. It sometimes is self-inflicted by an unhealthy lifestyle, using harsh soaps or over cleansing the skin. Dry skin characteristics include :
- skin is pale in colour
- tightens after washing
- often looks flaky
- has a dull appearance
- fine lines appear prematurely around the eyes
- broken capillaries may appear (red little veins on the cheeks)
Sensitive Skin
This type is becoming more common. It is a skin type which is easily irritated by the environment and products. Characteristics include :
- translucent appearance
- feels very very tight after washing
- reacts to external sources by becoming red and blotchy
- its prone to dry flaky patches and broken capillaries
- wrinkles prematurely
Oily Skin
This is the most common type, predominantly in young adults due to the over production of sebum, but can be present in combination with other types in adults. Characteristics include:
- sallow complexion
- over active sebum glands which cause a shiny appearance
- open pores(orange peel look on the skin)
- blackheads, whiteheads and spots
Combination Skin
This is when you have characteristics from one or more of the four skin types. Characteristics of sensitive skin can be present in all skin types. Sometimes the overuse of harsh products causes sensitivity. The most common form of combination skin is a greasy centre panel known as the T zone with dry areas on the neck and cheeks.
I hope the characteristics above help you to identify your skin type. Once you know your skin type it is much easier to get products which work with the skin type you have. Next week I will be doing a post on the different types of products available ranging from cleansing milks to creams to gels, and the different type of moisturisers out there.
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