The Skin You’re In
June 18, 2008 by tsims
What is your skin type?
This question is vital when considering your choice of skin care products. As the climate and environment changes, it is possible that you may go through phases of different skin types.There are a lot of skin care products on the market and it’s easy to waste a lot of time and money trying to find the best solution.
Therefore, if you take a minute to educate yourself before purchasing, you will make sure you are getting products that will perform best for your skin type.
Skin Type Guide
- Normal: Neither exceedingly oily, nor dry, without discolorations or variations in pigment, generally blemish free. To keep your skin looking good follow a skincare routine that includes washing with a good quality facial wash twice a day and a scrub once or twice a week. Use a lightweight moisturizer morning and night.
- Oily: Shiny or slick appearance, with enlarged pores, and possible patches of flakiness around the nose area where oil collects and dries. Keep your face as clean as possible by using a good quality, all- natural facial wash twice a day and a mild alcohol-free and oil-free moisturizer. Use only natural, gentle products and stay away from soap. A gentle astringent and deep cleaning masque will also help tighten pores and soak up extra oil.
- Dry: Flaky and lackluster, sometimes ashen in appearance, and tight with a lack of elasticity. Obviously, dry skin needs a good moisturizer. Use it in the morning and before bedtime. Around your eyes, make sure to use moisturizers specifically for that area. Avoid products that contain alcohol and don’t use soap on your face. Soap strips the face of its moisture.
- Combination: Oily on the chin, forehead and cheeks, dry near the hair and jaw lines with patches of flakiness. Keep your skin clean by washing with a mild cleanser twice a day. Moisturize the dry area with a rich moisturizer; and control oily areas with large pores by applying a toners or mask after cleaning. Because combination skin is so sensitive, use skin products that are light formula with no fragrances.
- Sensitive: Blotchy, irritated, and prone to rashes and redness, with broken capillaries. You should use mild, natural products for your skin care regimen. Avoid anything containing harsh chemicals, alcohol, or fragrance. Don’t use soap and always select products designed for sensitive skin. Never use low-quality shaving products that don’t create an adequate barrier between the blades and your face.
Some experts recommend that drinking water equal to half of your body’s weight (in ounces) is a healthy way to promote great skin. You should also use a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 everyday even in the winter.
You’re stuck with it… so take care of it!
I noticed that you say to avoid skin care products with the Sodium laurel Sulfates (spelling/) however the cleansaer you say you like in your article both contain one of them. What are we to do?
Thanks
Nice catch… that was a bit contradictory of us wasn’t it. The comment about SLS was mainly geared towards those with sensitive, dry skin because high quantities of those detergents can be a bit harsh for those with sensitive skin. Therefore, we have revised the article to be more clear.
There is a ton of information and controversy surrounding the use of SLS, so it’s up to the individual to research ingredients thoroughly and make the right decision for yourself and your family.
Personally, I use both the Anthony Logistics Glycolic Facial Cleanser & California North Gelskin Wash and love them! They are both quite mild and leave my skin clean, but not overly dry.