How do I determine my skin type ?
There are four basic types of healthy skin: normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Skin type is determined by genetics. The condition of our skin can, however, vary greatly according to the various internal and external factors it is subjected to.
NORMAL SKIN
‘Normal’ is a term widely used to refer to well-balanced skin. The scientific term for healthy skin is eudermic
How to identify normal skin ?
Normal skin has:
- fine pores
- good blood circulation
- a velvety, soft and smooth texture
- a fresh, rosy colour uniform transparency
- no blemishes and is not prone to sensitivity.
DRY SKIN
‘Dry’ is used to describe a skin type that produces less sebum than normal skin. As a result of the lack of sebum, dry skin lacks the lipids that it needs to retain moisture and build a protective shield against external influences
How to identify a dry skin?
Mildly dry skin can feel tight, brittle and rough and look dull. Skin elasticity is also low.
OILY SKIN
‘Oily’ is used to describe a skin type with heightened sebum production. This over production is known as seborrhea.
How to identify an oily skin?
Oily skin is characterised by:
- enlarged, clearly visible pores
- a glossy shine
- thicker, pale skin: blood vessels may not be visible
Oily skin is prone to comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and to the varying forms of acne.
COMBINATION SKIN
Combination skin is, as the name suggests, skin that consists of a mix of skin types.
How to identify a combination skin?
Combination is characterized by:
- an oily T-zone (forehead, chin and nose)
- enlarged pores in this area perhaps with some impurities
- normal to dry cheeks