There are so many different products on the market that it can be hard to know where to start. Determining your skin type is a crucial first step in creating the right routine for your unique skin. The best way to identify your skin type is by a quick and easy test. One of our estheticians can recommend the perfect products to help balance your skin and treat any symptoms you may be experiencing. The most common skin types are normal, dry, oily/acne prone and combination.
Normal skin is well balanced with neither excessive oil nor dry patches. This is also known as healthy, or eudermic skin. People with this skin type don’t typically experience breakouts and are very tolerant to the environment or changes in season. If you have oily skin, it means your pores are enlarged and your sebum production is increased. This may lead to pimples, blackheads and other skin problems. If you have dry skin, your pores are smaller and the sebum production is reduced. You may notice your skin is itchy, flaky, scaly or red. Combination skin is defined by having areas that are oily and others that are dry. Usually, this is found in the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin). Dry areas may be patchy or itchy. Oily areas may feel slick and shiny. People with this skin type may have enlarged pores, be prone to breakouts and are sensitive.
There are a number of methods used to classify skin types, including visual rating scales and instruments, questionnaires/surveys and self-report instruments (frequently referred to as ‘self-assessment tools’). The Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype Classification System, Baumann and the Combined Dermatological Assessment Scale are all popular classification systems that have been widely adopted in dermatological/cosmetic research and practice. As with any other aspect of our bodies, our skin changes over time. It can go through dry, oily or combination spells for a variety of reasons, including diet, the weather, hormones and more. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the changes in your skin and keep it in mind when selecting the best products for it.
The next time you visit us, we’ll use a simple 30-minute skin test to help you find your correct skin type. Wash your face thoroughly, removing any makeup or products, and let it dry completely for 30 minutes. We’ll then take a look and evaluate how your skin feels, looking for the characteristics of each of the four categories. If you’re still unsure of your skin type, book an appointment with our expert estheticians and we’ll be happy to help. Our facials are specifically tailored to your needs, so you’ll leave our salon with a clearer, healthier complexion. Book today!
