It’s important to use the right products for your skin so that it can look balanced and beautiful, and that means knowing your skin type. But how do you figure that out?
The three main skin types are commonly referred to as oily, normal/combination, and dry.
- Oily skin tends to look greasy and feel shiny all over. Excess oil can sometimes leave pores congested.
- Normal/Combination skin has a distinct T-zone (an area which includes the forehead, nose, and chin). The t-zone tends to be oilier than other areas, while the area on and around the cheeks tends to be normal to dry.
- Dry skin can feel dry throughout the day and can be red, irritated, and you may even experience flaking.
A simple at-home test to determine your skin type is by starting with a thoroughly cleansed face. Be sure to not apply toners, moisturizers, or serums. Wait 30 minutes and then examine your cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin for any shine. If there is shine all over, you most likely have oily skin. If there is only noticeable shine on your nose and forehead, you probably have combination/normal skin. If your skin feels tight, especially when you smile or make other facial expressions, your skin is most likely dry.
Whatever your skin type is today, it is important to remember that our skin’s needs and character can change over time and even from season to season. Taking steps to best identify those needs can help your skin to look its best. It’s important to check in once in a while to make sure that you are using the right products for your skin type. Making adjustments as necessary will keep your skin healthy and radiant.