The first step to determining how to look after your skin and which products to use is to identify your skin type. Taking a little time to learn your skin’s needs can help you pick the perfect options for a healthier and more radiant complexion.
Everybody’s skin is unique. But there are some common skin types that can help you determine where your skin fits in the most.
Before we get to that, let’s take a look at a few ways to figure out what’s not working for your skin.
- Products leaving greasy residue
If this is the case, you may think you have oily skin. The truth is, your moisturizer may be a little too rich for your skin type. The skin can only absorb so much product, so the rest sits on the surface, clogging your pores.
- Products burn or sting
This is a sign that the product isn’t right for your skin type. These reactions don’t necessarily mean you have sensitive skin, the product could simply be incompatible with your skin.
- Produces make your skin feel dry and tight
This doesn’t always mean you have dehydrated or dry skin. Certain products and ingredients strip the skin of moisture as part of the process.
- Products leave your skin unbalanced
Stop using the product immediately. Inflammation often results in aging. Even if you’re inducing skin irritation unintentionally, products that leave your skin irritated and unbalanced are just wrong for you.
- Exfoliating products leave you flaky
If you use exfoliating products but your skin is still flaky and dry, it means you may be overdoing it. Too much exfoliation can harm your skin’s moisture barrier, leaving invisible cracks in the skin for moisture to escape. This makes your skin flaky and dry.
Figuring out your skin type:
Normal/Combination Skin
If you have normal/combination skin, you probably have dry cheeks. So, you need a moisturizer that isn’t too heavy but can retain moisture where you need it.
People with normal skin are prone to breakouts around the cheeks, along with a well-moisturized t-zone. Daily, gentle exfoliation is important to keep your skin in balance.
Dry Skin
Dry skin can leave your face feeling tight all day long, and you may even notice flaking. This skin type is usually due to environmental factors and genetics. Dehydration is also a big factor. That’s why it’s important to drink plenty of water and avoid diuretics like caffeine and alcohol.
Daily exfoliation is also key, ideally with non-abrasive and gentle ingredients that promote cell growth without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Without that extra layer of dead skin, your products will absorb more effectively.
Oily Skin
Too much oil can leave your pores clogged and congested. The good news is that oily skin often looks more supple and younger. That’s because it is less prone to wrinkling and has more natural moisture.
Daily exfoliation is essential to prevent a buildup of products and clogged pores. A gentle exfoliator can also help to balance the tone and texture of the skin.
People with oilier skin are also prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which means dark spots on your skin once breakouts have healed. Again, exfoliation can help by lightening the dark spots and revealing new cells.
Book an appointment with the ENVY Skin Clinic team today to find the perfect skin care products for your skin type.