All skin types can benefit from daily cleansing and moisturizing, but different skin types—which include oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive skin—have different needs. That’s why understanding your skin type is the first step in properly caring for it. But how do you know what type of skin you have? The answer can be found through simple observation.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), there are five primary types of skin: oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive.1 Each skin type has its own set of unique characteristics and needs that can affect the look and feel of your complexion. By first understanding what type of skin you have, you can begin to make informed decisions—giving your skin the customized care and protection it needs now and for years to come. If you’re not sure what your skin type is, keep reading. We’re covering all the basics about how to identify your skin type below, plus tips for choosing the ideal skincare products and routines for each type.
FINDING YOUR SKIN TYPE
Your skin type is based on the amount of sebum (oil) your skin produces. Skin’s oiliness can change over time and may also be influenced by factors such as stress, genetics, hormones, humidity, and the natural aging process.
- Once you know what to look for—using the common characteristics listed below—pinpointing your skin type can usually be determined through simple observation.
- There are two tests you can perform at home to help you understand what kind of skin you have in just 30 minutes: the blotting sheet method and the “watch and wait” method.
Oily skin produces an excess of sebum that causes the skin to appear shiny and feel greasy—especially throughout the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). People with oily skin may tend to have less wrinkles, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD),2 but they may also be more prone to enlarged pores, acne blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Keep in mind that just because oily skin produces more natural oils, this doesn’t mean that it requires any less moisture than other skin types. Supporting oily skin comes down to choosing the right products that nourish and hydrate, without clogging your pores or triggering breakouts. The ideal oily skin routine should feature a gentle, foaming cleanser that effectively removes dirt, excess oil, and other impurities. It should also include a lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic moisturizer that provides your oily skin with the essential hydration it needs.
