What's My Skin Type?
Hey FaceTory Fam! 💝
Do you ever see products that say stuff like “for dewy skin!” or “for a flawless matte look!” how about “perfect for dry skin!”, or “a dream moisturizer for oily skin!” Granted, you can choose any product you like but there are always some products that will catch your eye because they are meant for you- or more specifically meant for your skin type.
You might be thinking, “Wait, FaceTory, what is my skin type and why do I need to know this information?” Hun, questions are meant to be answered! Read on to find out!
Let’s start with why this information is important. The first part of your skincare journey is to know your skin, and we mean really know it. Paying attention to your skin is especially important if you struggle with different skin concerns. You’ll be able to narrow down all those products in the isles of endless cosmetics and skincare products. If you don’t know your skin type, you could potentially harm your skin barrier with ingredients that are too harsh for your skin or ingredients that aren’t compatible with your skin.
Now, let’s move on to the different skin types out there. The most common skin types are:
Dry skin is usually associated with visible dry patches and flaking. Your skin may also feel tight throughout the day, even after applying moisturizer. Visible redness, irritation, and an itchy feeling are also common concerns dry skin types deal with.
Lucky you if your skin type falls under this category! This is the ideal skin type, as it is well- balanced and doesn’t have as many concerns. Normal skin types aren’t typically prone to breakouts and are well moisturized with an even complexion.
Combination skin types are both dry and oily. This skin type is mainly characterized as having an oily T- zone (forehead, down the nose) and dry around U- zone (cheeks and chin areas). This skin type can lean more towards the dry or the oily side, depending on the person. In this case, knowing what works for your skin is really important as you have to cater to both sides, the dry as well as the oily. Fun!
An oily skin type is what it sounds like, your skin is probably oily throughout the day. This skin type is prone to clogged pores, blemishes, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Oily skin types may tend to look shiny throughout the day and have visible pores.
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin types tend to have more redness and can have a feeling of slight or severe discomfort. This is usually something you are born with, whereas sensitized skin (“reactive skin”) is a result of environmental factors and products. It’s important to take time to get to know your skin, especially if you have this skin type. Don’t force your skin and be very gentle!
How can I determine my skin type?
There are 2 popular ways to determine your skin type if you’re having trouble figuring out which one you fall under:
1. Cleanse and Wait
Wash your face with a gentle/mild cleanser, pat dry, and don’t apply any moisturizer. Wait for 30 minutes to 1 hour and evaluate your skin. If it feels tight and you see visible try patches, your skin type is dry. If you see some shine on your nose and forehead but your cheeks are dry, then you have combo skin. If your skin feels oily all over, you have oily skin. And if your skin feels normal and comfortable, you have normal skin!
2. Blotting Papers
After you cleanse your face with a gentle/mild cleanser, wait about 1-2 hours. Take an oil blotting sheet and press it onto your skin. If you find that you have no oil on your cheeks but the t-zone is oily, then you have combination skin. If you see no change in the color of the paper, then you have dry skin, and so on!
We hope this helped you determine your skin type so you can better take care of your skin and give it the right amount of love it deserves! It’s super important to get to know your skin so you can find the right products for you. Keep in mind that skin changes sometimes depending on your age and lifestyle. Some things that can influence your skin are things like genetics, climate, hormones, medications, diet, and of course your current skincare routine. So definitely check in and adjust when necessary. Good luck on your skincare journey and as always, just keep glowing!
Love,
FaceTory 💝