What Skin Type Am I?

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“What skin type are you?” When I was asked this question the very first time that I went to get a facial, I truthfully didn’t know what to respond. Maybe oily? Or was it combination? Aren’t they the same? I’ve always heard of the five skin types which are normal, dry, oily, sensitive, or combination, but I never really learned which factors determined what skin type you had. Did it really matter?

However, I soon realized that by identifying which skin type you have, you can significantly improve the quality of your skin, avoiding breakouts, dealing with dry patches, and sopping up oil to get your skin balanced and glowing. Knowing your skin type will allow you to tailor your skincare routine to your skin.

If you were like me and don’t know what skin type you are then keep on reading to find out your skin type!

Table of Contents

Normal

You might have Normal skin if…

You rarely have any breakouts
Weather changes or new products rarely affect your skin in an adverse way
Barely visible pores
Your skin never gets super oily or feels tight

If you’re blessed with having a normal skin type then you rarely have any skin concerns and can try out new skin products without getting an allergic reaction. You definitely have leeway to experiment with products and will probably see a great response with most products you choose.

Dry

You might have Dry skin if…

You often deal with flakiness
Your skin often feels sensitive to the touch and/or burns when applying products
You deal with itchiness
You have frequent red patches
Almost invisible pores
Dull or rough complexion
Loss of elasticity — skin often feels tight

Dry skin can be caused by genes, weather, aging, ingredients in products, or can even be caused by hormonal changes. Some basic tips for dry skin include using mild and gentle soaps or cleansers that don’t have strong smells and to take shorter showers or baths — long, hot showers can really dry out skin. And of course, moisturizing is the key to combatting dryness!

Oily

You might have Oily skin if…

Your face always looks like it’s glowing or shiny in all areas
You always have to use blotting sheets or mattifying powders
Makeup or skin care products seem to always smear
Enlarged pores
Prone to acne, blackheads or other blemishes

Oily skin can be caused by puberty or hormonal imbalances, heat or humidity, and stress or anxiety. With an oily skin type, make sure you use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubs which can irritate skin and cause your pores to create more oil to compensate. Also more than other skin types blemishes take longer to heal on oily skin, especially if you pick or try to pop pimples. So resist the urge to touch blemishes at all costs!

Sensitive

You might have Sensitive skin if…

You deal with frequent rashes or bumps
Immediate burning feeling after trying new skin products
Fragrances irritate your skin
Your skin tends to turn red easily
You tend to have regular breakouts

The main concern for sensitive skin comes down to the products you are using on your skin. Certain skin care products or cosmetics that you are using are likely giving your skin an irritation, and experimenting to see which products are the culprits will clear away the problems.

Combination

You might have Combination skin if…

Your skin is dry or normal in certain areas, but can be oily in others
Your T-zone (nose, forehead, chin) is usually oily

No two combination skin types will be the same, as each person has different areas that need attention. Some days your skin type will differ, too and you’ll feel like your T-zone is normal and your cheeks are suddenly flaky and dry. Skin products that are dedicated to purifying the skin are helpful for people with combination skin types and can help reduce your skin’s inconsistency.

What’s your skin type?

I found out that my skin type is combination! What’s your skin type and how did you know for sure? Did this blog post help you find out what skin type you are too? Also would you like to see more of these types of posts? Let us know below!