
Many people do not know their skin type and condition, and for this reason, are selecting the wrong products to use on their skin. The care for treating oily skin and the care for treating dry skin are vastly different. It is important to educate yourself on your skin type and condition to prevent premature aging and irritation.Â
There are five primary skin types as identified by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive. Each skin type has its unique characteristics and needs that determine how your skin feels and looks. Knowing your skin type is crucial to address its concerns without harming its natural barrier. Skin conditions are characterized by how your skin responds to different things such as environment, diet, stress, and hormonal changes. Skin conditions are often temporary responses that can be treated with the right mix of lifestyle changes and active ingredients. Common skin conditions are aging, acne, discoloration, dehydration, and sensitized.Â
While genetics primarily determine your skin type, other environmental factors also affect it. Sun damage, air pollution, and poor nutrition are some of the extrinsic factors that can significantly influence your skin. It's essential to consider these factors to determine your skin type accurately and ensure healthier and happier skin.
Each skin type has specific characteristics that help identify them:
Normal Skin: This skin type will have a balance of oil and hydration. Someone with this skin type will not typically not experience any breakouts or have sensitivities to products.Â
Dry Skin (Xerosis): This skin type lacks hydration and the ability to retain moisture. Someone with this skin type will have flaking, tightness, and feel itchy. Common skin conditions associated with dry skin are rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.Â
Oily Skin (Seborrhoea):Â This skin condition occurs when the sebaceous glands produce excess amounts of sebum and will cause the pores to become clogged with debris from the skin, causing breakouts.Â
Combination Skin:Â This skin type is a mix of dry and oily. A person with combination skin will experience oily skin symptoms in their t-zone (forehead, nose, cheeks, chin) and dry skin around the outer perimeter of their face.Â
Sensitive Skin:Â This skin type has an extremely compromised barrier and will experience stinging, burning, and itching, especially after product use. This skin type may experience redness and peeling, and have rough dry patches of skin.Â
Knowing how to properly identify your skin type and condition is the first step to having happy healthy skin. By educating yourself on the needs of your skin, you can select the proper skincare products that will work for you! If you are unsure of where to start, contact an esthetician or a dermatologist for a consultation.Â
~Danielle Smethers, Licensed Esthetician
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