Your skin type is determined by how much or how little oil your skin produces. You diet, medication, stress, environment and skincare regime can all affect skin’s oil production. There are six basic skin types: oily, dry, aging, sun damaged, sensitive, combination and normal. To find the best remedies you need to know your skin type.

OILY SKIN – Use an astringent, citrus-based cleanser

Will look shiny, with enlarged pores mostly situated around the nose, chin, and forehead. Oily skin will experience more blackheads and blemishes than other skin types and oily hair is also a clue to recognizing this skin type.

To take care of oily skin:

Wash it no more than twice a day and after you sweat a lot.

Use a gentle cleanser and don’t scrub.

Don’t pick, pop, or squeeze pimples. They will take longer to heal.

Use ‘noncomedogenic’ products to avoid clogging of pores

DRY SKIN – Use a soothing chamomile moisturizer

Will appear scaly and flaky. It feels tight after cleansing and dry to the touch. People experiencing dry skin have a tendency to experience red patches. Dry hands and feet can also be an indicator of having dry skin.

To take care of dry skin:

• Prevent excessive baths and showers.

• Apply moisturizer immediately after washing.

• Use an ointment or cream rather than a lotion.

• Wear lip balm.

• Use only gentle, unscented skin care products.

AGEING OR SUN DAMAGED SKIN

Will often have fine lines and wrinkles, or hyperpigmentation. Wrinkles usually start around the eyes, mouth and on the forehead.  The skin can appear loose due to loss of elasticity.

SENSITIVE SKIN – Use a soothing green tea extract

Will often have red patches and feel irritated. The skin tends to be delicate with fine pores. It may have broken capillaries around the nose or on the cheeks. Using the wrong products can lead to rashes or skin irritation.

To take care of sensitive skin:

• Avoid foaming cleansers.

• Avoid alcohol based skincare and cosmetic products.

• Be cautious when using aggressive skincare treatments.

COMBINATION SKIN – Use a skin softening rosemary extract

Is the most common skin type, usually has medium sized pores and an oily T-zone (being the forehead, nose and chin). The rest of the face may have a smooth even texture or be noticeably dry. Blackheads are often found around the nose.

To take care of combination skin:

• Start with a gentle but effective water soluble cleanser.

• Apply a hydrating, soothing non-irritating toner filled with a healthy amount of skin replenishing antioxidants and ingredients.

• Use a gentle, non abrasive, leave on BHA exfoliant.

• Protect from sun damage.

NORMAL SKIN – Use a natural cucumber toner

Usually has an even texture and tone. It has no noticeable problems and is the rarest skin type. The pores will appear small and the skin has a healthy glow. Pimples are rare, but still happen (mostly during younger years).

To take care of normal skin:

• Take shorter showers and baths.

• Use mild, gentle soaps or cleansers.

• Don’t scrub while bathing or drying.

• Smooth on a rich moisturizer after bath.

• Use a humidifier and don’t let indoor temperatures get too hot.

Therefore caring for your skin means first being aware of your skin type and the right products to complement your complexion. Skin types can change, so you may need to update your routine at some point in your life. Stress and hormonal changes can also affect your skin. You may also require different skin products during different phases.