Know Your Glow: A Guide To Identifying Your Skin Type

Unsplash/ Roberta Sant'Anna

One of the most frequent questions we ask ourselves is , “How do I determine my skin type?” 

It’s an excellent inquiry! Understanding whether your skin is oily, dry, normal, combination, or sensitive is essential for effective skincare. It not only guides you in choosing the right products but also empowers you to develop a routine that truly meets your skin’s needs. Misunderstanding your skin type can lead to noticeable consequences. For instance, using harsh cleansers or exfoliating scrubs designed for oily skin might actually trigger your skin to produce even more oil. On the flip side, using a thick moisturizer can reduce your skin’s natural oil production, leaving it even drier. By taking the time to understand your skin's unique needs, you can select the right products that promote balance and ultimately achieve a healthier, more radiant complexion. Let’s explore why knowing your skin type can transform your skincare game!

I have spent years and hundreds of dollars on expensive products that absolutely did nothing for my skin except make it worse all because it is what was trending and not what was tailored for my skin needs. After plenty of consultations and research, I have finally got my routine down to a "T" and I couldn't be more relieved. Help me help you save yourself the trouble and money, so here is what I recommend when determining your skin type and crafting your perfect skincare routine: 

1. Observe Your Skin's Natural State

The next time you have some time to relax at home, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Then, let your skin be for about thirty minutes without using any products. After that, take a close look and see what you notice:

• Oily Skin: It will likely look shiny and feel slick.
• Dry Skin: You might see flakiness or a rough, scaly texture.
• Combination Skin: Your T-zone (forehead and nose) may appear shiny, while your cheeks and chin could look dry.
• Normal Skin: It should feel balanced—not too shiny, flaky, or dry.
• Sensitive Skin: It might be a little pink or react quickly to changes in the environment or products, even if it looks normal.

This simple observation can give you important clues about your skin type and its needs!

2. Try the Blotting Sheet Test

Oil blotting sheets, which you can easily find at any drugstore, are a great way to measure how much oil your skin produces. After cleansing your face and allowing it to sit for 30 minutes, gently press the sheets onto different areas of your face.

If the sheets absorb a lot of oil from all over, you likely have oily skin. If they only pick up oil from your T-zone (forehead and nose), that suggests combination skin. Conversely, if there’s minimal to no oil on the sheets, you probably have normal or dry skin. This simple test can give you a clearer picture of your skin type!

Now that you have tested the integrity of your skin, let's get into some products curated for each skin type.

Dry Skin: Dry skin often feels tight during the day and can show visible flaking. Its causes can include genetics, environmental factors like lifestyle and diet, hormonal changes, and climate conditions. Dehydration is another major contributor to dry skin, so staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and reducing diuretics like alcohol and caffeine can really improve the way your skin feels and looks. The best moisturizers for dry skin are those containing hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Additionally, emollients, including squalane and camellia oil, help smooth and hydrate your skin evenly and effectively.

Combination Skin: People with combination skin often notice dryness on their cheeks, so it’s essential to find a moisturizer that strikes a balance—not too heavy but still effective enough to keep those areas hydrated.  Caring for combination skin can seem challenging, but it’s actually straightforward. Regular, gentle exfoliation helps keep both the T-zone and cheeks balanced. For hydration, opt for moisturizers with a gel-like texture, as they absorb quickly and are less likely to clog pores or cause breakouts. 

Oily Skin: Excess oil can lead to clogged and congested pores, but the good news is that oily skin often appears younger and more supple due to its natural moisture and lower risk of fine lines. Daily enzymatic exfoliation is key for promoting cell turnover and preventing sebum buildup in pores. A gentle physical exfoliator—one that avoids harsh abrasives like crushed nuts or seeds—can help balance your skin's tone and texture. And remember, don’t skip the moisturizer! While it might seem counterintuitive, using a lightweight moisturizer is just as crucial for oily skin as it is for dry skin. 

Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin often is the most challenging to manage. It can take time and effort to figure out which ingredients cause irritation or inflammation. To make this process easier, try introducing only one new product at a time, whether it’s skincare or makeup. A good practice is to patch test a new product on your inner forearm first to check for reactions. If there’s no irritation, apply it to the area behind one of your ears before using it on your face. Also, look for labels that indicate products are non-irritating and non-sensitizing, as well as free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, mineral oil, sulfate detergents, phthalates, and urea. These ingredients can lead to redness and itchiness, so avoiding them can help keep your skin calm and comfortable.

Our skin’s needs can evolve over time, so it’s important to regularly assess what it requires to look and feel its best. By being mindful of your skin's health and checking in on its condition frequently, you can make necessary adjustments to your skincare routine. This ongoing attention helps maintain balance and keeps your skin looking beautiful.