Understanding your skin type is an important first step towards a suitable routine. It helps you identify and prevent potential concerns. You can adapt your care to avoid excess oiliness, dryness or sensitivity, reducing the risk of acne, redness and other discomfort.
Knowing your skin type helps you choose appropriate cleansers, moisturisers and treatments. Here are some pointers for the most common types: normal, oily, dry, combination and sensitive.
Normal skin
Normal skin has balanced sebum production. It generally feels healthy, soft and supple, often with small pores and good circulation.
Oily skin
Oily skin often produces more sebum. It may look shiny, especially in the T-zone: forehead, nose and chin. Pores are often enlarged and more visible in these areas.
What suits oily skin?
Use a mild cleanser to manage excess oiliness. Avoid heavy or particularly oil-rich products.
Dry skin
Dry skin often produces less sebum. It can feel tight and may flake. Fine lines can appear more visible as elasticity decreases, and natural radiance may diminish.
What suits dry skin?
Use gentle cleansers, preferably oil-based, to avoid further drying. Apply rich moisturisers and look for moisture-binding ingredients.
Combination skin
Combination skin has different characteristics in different areas. The T-zone may be oily with enlarged pores, while cheeks and the eye area may be dry or normal. Different areas may need different care.
What suits combination skin?
Choose products that balance oily and dry areas. Moisturise dry patches and avoid heavy products on oily areas. Regular exfoliation may help support renewal.
Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is more affected by dry air, heat and cold, as well as certain products. It needs extra attention when choosing what to apply. It may become irritated or red and react to particular ingredients with inflammation or rashes.
What suits sensitive skin?
Choose mild, soothing ingredients and avoid strong fragrances or potentially irritating substances. Patch-test new products on a small area, such as your forearm, to check how your skin responds.
How can I identify my skin type?
A few simple observations can help you understand your skin type.
After cleansing
Notice how skin feels immediately after cleansing. Oily skin may feel oily, while dry skin can feel tight and dry.
Blotting paper test
Press a tissue or blotting paper against different parts of your face. Oily skin will leave oil traces; dry skin generally will not. Combination skin tends to leave oil from the T-zone.
Response to products
Observe your skin’s response to different products. Oily skin may respond well to lighter oils, while dry skin may need more moisture and different fatty-acid blends.
By noticing how skin responds to cleansing and products, you can build a more personal routine. Season, weather and time indoors or outdoors also affect what your skin needs. Skin type can change over time, so stay flexible and adapt your routine when needed.