Know Your Skin Type
Know Your Skin Type:
Skin care basics are also catered depending on skin type. Different types of skin require varying degrees and steps for skin protection. Various skin types also tend to develop varying skin conditions so it is important to learn what is harmful and what is helpful for your skin. The common skin types are normal skin, dry skin, oily skin, combination skin, and sensitive skin.
Normal Skin
People with normal skin need the least maintenance in caring for their skin. Normal skin, however, is rare as most people have to deal with various levels of dryness, acne, oiliness, and other skin conditions. Skin care basics for normal skin include basic everyday cleansing using a soap-free product. As much as possible, avoid applying toners or cleansers with harsh chemicals. Always refer to a product’s ingredient guide to protect your skin. Use sunscreen and moisturizers to prevent premature aging.
Oily Skin
Excessive excretion of the skin’s protective substance called sebum results in oily skin. Too much of this lipid-rich substance could trap dirt inside the skin’s surface and may be a cause for acne and large pores. To take care of oily skin, cleanse it with cleansers containing salicylic acid and avoid alcohol-based cleansers, which may cause irritation. Skin care basics dictate that people with oily skin do not need to moisturize. If you have oily skin and would like to use moisturizers, use oil-free products. For excessive oiliness, more advanced treatments including vitamin A creams, sulfur creams, and retinoids could help. Others would recommend the application of clay or mud masks once a week.
Dry Skin
People living in tropical climates or those undergoing treatments for acne tend to have dry skin. Effective skin protection for dry skin includes adequate cleansing using soap-free products. Do not use toners with alcohol and harsh substances. Non-greasy moisturizers will do the trick. Moisturizers containing substances similar to the skin’s natural moisturizing agents is also recommended. Check a product’s ingredient guide for sodium PCA or hyaluronic acid. Use sunscreen and apply moisturizing mask once a week. Drinking plenty of water and using mild soap for your laundry would also help.
Combination Skin
A skin of combining types means that certain areas of your face are dry while others oily. The oily part usually covers the T-zone, which is the forehead and the nose area. People with combination skin types usually have dry cheeks. To deal with combination skin type, follow the skin care basics for oily and dry skin separately. Cleanse the skin with mild cleanser twice a day before applying an oil-free moisturizer. You could also use masks. Use a clay mask on the oily area then a moisturizing mask should be applied on the dry surfaces of the skin. It would also help to use anti-dandruff shampoo as the condition also tends to affect the scalp.
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin is a skin condition that calls for careful skin care. People with sensitive skin react immediately to irritants like detergents, makeup removers, and alcohol-based substances. If you have sensitive skin, it is best to avoid artificial products, makeup, toners, and fragrances as much as possible. Use oil-free moisturizers and hypoallergenic sunscreen when outdoors.
