Know your type

BEAUTY and cosmetic product purveyors consistently promote facial products for different skin types.

Whether your skin type is normal, oily, dry, combination or sensitive, understanding why your complexion is the way it is can help you make more informed choices when it comes to facial care.

Your skin is affected by internal and external elements, including hormones and genetic predisposition, diet and medication, stress, smoking, pollution and exposure to the sun – this is why skin type can change from time to time.

Water and oil content affects your skin’s suppleness and softness, while your personal level of sensitivity determines your tolerance to certain subtances.

– Characterised by smooth, even and radiant skin, those with this skin type need only perform basic skincare regimens, stay sufficiently hydrated and healthy, and protect themselves from excessive exposure to the sun.

– When oil glands in the skin secrete lipids excessively, the effects are enlarged pores, dull or shiny complexion, and all sorts of blemishes.

Oily skin can be exacerbated by

Normal Oily

stress, unsuitable diet and medication or change in hormonal balance.

Those with this skin type should wash their skin with a gentle cleanser no more than twice a day and after heavy perspiration.

Stay away from products that clog pores – look out for noncomedogenic items, which are specially formulated so as not to block the pores.

– Red patches, close- toinvisible pores and a dull, rough complexion are signs of dry skin.

It is common for dry skin to flake, crack, peel, feel tight, or become itchy and irritated as a result of hormonal change, overexposure to extreme weather, prolonged hot baths and showers as well as irritants in cosmetics and cleaning agents.

To improve this skin type, use a gentle cleanser and rich, protective moisturiser that retains moisture well.

Switch your shampoos and cosmetics for milder alternatives and avoid scrubbing your face while washing or drying. Also stay away from extreme climate conditions that are too hot or cold as these will dry your skin out.

Dry

– True to its name, this skin type is a combination of the other types – it can be normal or dry in some areas, then oily especially in the T- zone ( nose, forehead and chin area).

This skin type requires special care in different affected areas, or it can produce overly dilated pores, blackheads or shiny skin.

– Sensitive skin covers a range of conditions, from rosacea and eczema to acne and contact dermatitis.

The first course of action for those with this skin type is to identify and eliminate the irritant that is causing the undesired reaction. Common irritants include bath soaps, eye cosmetics and moisturisers.

Combination Sensitive