What’s Your Type? (Skin Edition)

Who is ready to just get down to business on this blog post? I know that I am, especially when talking skin types! I normally have so much to say, all the time! Yet, I find myself with fewer words on this very important topic. In fact, the topic of skin types is certainly in the top 5 rankings of importance when it comes to skincare and a great routine! So why so little to say?

I think it is because we all have a skin type, it can change, but it usually follows a very linear pattern if and when it changes, and it is a genetic predisposition (meaning, we can help it along, but we really can’t change it!). Also, when you know your skin type, there’s really no need to look at other recommendations or varying product formulations, because they automatically will not be correct for your skin (if only dating were this simple, huh?). Because of this, today’s post is going to help you navigate or learn a little about the common characteristics of each skin type. And if you need more help, or just want to find out fast, click here to take this quiz.

Dry skin means that your skin is lacking in oil. Your body either does not produce much oil from your oil glands, or because of changes in hormone levels (typically later and post menopause in women) it has nearly stopped producing oil from the glands. The oil gland produces oil deep within the tissue, but is carried to the skin’s surface from our hair follicles, or as we refer to them, pores. Oil has a thicker texture by nature, so if we are not producing much oil, the pore size is usually smaller, because it doesn’t have to accommodate that thicker oil. If you were not dry skinned in your youth, you may find that you have larger pores on certain areas of the face (see combination skin type down further in the blog), but those areas are now not producing much by way of oil. So why are they still large? Think of your pore as a rubber band that is being stretched out. Over time, the rubber band doesn’t spring right back, does it? That is essentially what happens to our pores, they stretch out for so long, and then they stay stretched out. Dry skin almost always feels taught, and experiences dry patches and flakiness. They will typically experience more lines and deeper set wrinkles, as a result of the skin not being as pliable on the surface (think tanned leather. It just doesn’t stretch or give). Dry skin also typically appears thinner and doesn’t have a “bounce” to it. And lastly, most dry skin clients will complain of looking perpetually dull! 

Oily skin means that your skin has an overabundance of oil being produced. It becomes shiny or almost greasy feeling within a short time after washing your face, which you will find as you face hormonal changes or later in life, you may still be shiny, but it could extend to later into the day before noticeable. Because of the increase of viscous oil, pore size is almost always a concern! Many oily skin types will also present with what they assume are blackheads on their nose and chin, and even sometimes onto their cheeks. Upon closer inspection, the blackheads will actually be very uniform in size (usually resembling a pin head). These are actually not blackheads, but sebaceous filaments. While these can occur in any skin type, in the areas where oil is being produced, it is much more prevalent in oily skin types. Many people also connect acne with oily skin, and this is simply not true at all. While it is true that acne causing bacteria thrive and grow with the presence of oil, the two are not mutually exclusive.

Combination skin, means you are dealing with a mixture of a dry skin type (typically occurring on the cheeks) and an oily skin type (which is usually present in the T-Zone, or the forehead around the brow area, nose, and chin). Combo skin usually does not present with two extremes, however. There is typically just enough oil that spreads to the cheek area to alleviate discomfort, and not such extreme oil that you are wanting to wash your face again within an hour or two! Nonetheless, combo skin can be a little more difficult to regulate, and may need a little more trial and error, or even using a couple different products to help it along! Combo skin will inevitably end up leaning toward being a drier skin later in life, but you will almost always see sebaceous filaments and dull skin together!  

Sensitive skin, is a whole other ballgame! First we have to look at, is the skin “sensitized,” meaning that there is something it is being exposed to that is making it seem sensitive? Or are you truly sensitive? For the purpose of today’s information, we are looking at truly sensitive skin. Sensitive skin types see red almost always. It is their number one concern. The second most common complaint that I hear when dealing with sensitive skin, is mild flaking. It is usually just that….mild. But it is persistent! This will be more prevalent if the skin is being exfoliated too frequently, especially by a physical exfoliant (i.e. scrubs). And by too frequently, it could be as much as only times a week! This skin type can have small or large pores?! It depends on your product mixture. If you are using something that does not balance the skin or is too harsh, be prepared for a larger pore size. You may also notice burning, itching, or irritation that accompanies persistent redness. You are also triggered by your water temperature and merely by touch!

I love to blog about something that solves a problem, and for myself as a professional, Licensed Esthetician, this topic can seem a little mundane at times. But I am acutely aware of its importance in the overall health, well being, and results in your skincare journey! Did you figure out your skin type by reading this? Or learn something new about your skin type today? If you still can’t figure it out, take our quiz! I’d love to hear about it! (It seriously keeps me motivated to write about the things that you may find useful!)

Thanks for letting me geek out today, friend! Until next time!