Know your skin type
Skin is normally classified into one of four categories: normal, oily, dry, and combination. A number of factors can influence you skin type at different times such as age, diet, the climate, stress and wellness.
Normal skin, is characterized by a good balance of moisture, small pores and an even tone, this is the goal of a skin care regimens. Fortunately most people have normal skin, but we need to take care to maintain this good condition, as an example it is important to minimize the skin’s exposure to the sun. Using facial products with an SPF of at least 30 is ideal for preventing wrinkles and other sun damage. We should get in the habit of using these products even if it is snowing or raining. Sun exposure is one of the biggest problems for maintaining youthful looking skin whatever skin type you have.
Skin Care: Calming Oily Skin
Oily skin is identified by an excess of oil (the technical term is sebum) on the face. Some people with oily skin begin to feel greasy only a few hours after cleansing. Oily skin can be an inherited trait, but it can also be caused by puberty, which causes oil glands to go into overdrive. Typically the forehead, nose, and chin (“T-zone”) are the places that are worst affected as they have the highest concentration of oil glands.
People with oily skin generally don’t need a regular moisturizer but sunscreen is still necessary to reduce exposure to UV rays. We suggest using an oil-free sunscreen that is specifically formulated for the face and is less likely to create blackheads and clog pores.
Skin Care: Soothing Dry Skin
Dry skin, on the other hand, suffers from a lack of natural moisture — there’s not enough oil to act as a surface barrier and lock in moisture. People with dry skin feel a tightness about their face, and their skin is often irritated. Flaking is another possible symptom, but is not always a sure sign of dry skin. In some cases severely dry skin can become itchy and painful, leading to a condition called eczema.
Treatment of certain medical conditions that affects hormone production can sometimes lead to dry skin. Naturally-occurring menopause can have the same effect; most women begin to experience drier skin as they hit their late forties. To care for dry skin, use a gentle, soap-free cleanser, and moisturize adequately. Using special treatments for improved hydration and then locking these in with a second application of moisturizer may be needed during the day.
Skin Care: Balancing Combination Skin
Combination skin is a blend of both oily and dry skin. People with combination skin usually find that their oily skin is concentrated in the T-zone, while their cheeks remain dry. Combination skin can be influenced by genetics and, again, by puberty, when oil glands increase their production of sebum. Sometimes a variety of products used on the dry and oily areas of skin may be needed to treat this skin type. For example, a mild cleanser and moisturizer may be needed on the cheeks, while an anti-acne product with benzoyl peroxide might be necessary on the T-zone.
If you’re still not sure about your skin type or the best way to nourish it, consult one of our qualified skin care specialists and we can recommend a daily and/or special treatment plan for your specific needs.
