What’s Your Skin Type?

The human body is a beautiful and fascinating thing.

And we are all made different.

We come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors.

And our skin type is different too.

Our skin is beautiful! It has so many unique colors and textures.
But the one thing we have in common – is that you are beautiful no matter your skin type.

And there are a few different skin types. 

There are 5 basic categories for skin types.

1. Normal

If you have normal skin – consider yourself extra blessed!

Normal skin isn’t too oily and it isn’t too dry. Regular texture, next to no imperfections, and soft appearance that requires very little special care. 

But of course – just because it doesn’t require special care – doesn’t mean you can’t give it a pamper every now and then with scrubs and lotions!

2. Dry

Does your skin crack a lot or absorb the lotion instantly? Then you need to lotion again in an hour because your skin just feels unmoisturized time after time? You have dry skin.

And dry skin can be brutal. It can leave your skin feeling cracked and sometimes even cause you pain if it is too dry.

In most cases, dry skin is caused by factors such as weather, humidity and can be temporary. But there are some people that have it lifelong and it can be genetic (thanks mom!) According to a study, mutations in genes that control the production of the protein filaggrin, which plays a role in forming and hydrating the skin barrier, can cause several skin conditions.

Dry skin signs and symptoms may vary depending on different factors such as age, health, or the cause of dry skin. It is generally characterized by a feeling of tightness and roughness. It may also have almost an ashy gray color, with itching, redness, and small cracks occurring. Cracked skin is usually observed in very dry skin and presents small cracks, which, in more serious cases, may be deeper and even bleed if very severe or left untreated to worsen.

Since dry skin can crack leaving it more exposed to bacteria – it may lead to skin disorders, such as eczema, or it may be more prone to infections if not properly managed.

If you’ve always had dry skin or if it runs in your family, it’s essential that you’re diligent with daily moisturization. Specifically – try to seek our moisturizers that contain ceramides and lipids – they will help build and reinforce the skin barrier for you.

3. Oily

Is your face naturally shiny? Then you likely have oily skin. 

The one good thing about oily skin – is that your skin is constantly being moisturized by our skin’s natural oils. While the downfall is…it can lead to a lot of clogged pores.

Oily skin has a porous, humid, and bright appearance to it. It is caused by excessive fat production by sebaceous glands and is often caused by genetics and hormones.  

It can be hard to treat oily skin. But a few easy tips are:

• Wash your face. Seems simple enough right?
• Blotting papers. These are thin, small papers and while they won’t prevent your sebaceous glands from going into overdrive, they will allow you to blot excess oil from your face to help minimize shiny, greasy skin.
• Honey. Honey has antibacterial and antiseptic abilities – which may benefit oily and acne-prone skin. Honey is also a natural humectant, so it helps keep the skin moist but not oily. This is because humectants draw moisture from the skin without replacing it.
• Oatmeal. Oatmeal helps calm inflamed skin and absorb excess oil. 
• Lemons. Lemons are used in tightening the pores. The acid in lemons and other citrus fruits may help absorb oil.
• Aloe vera. Aloe is known for soothing burns and other skin conditions. And there is good scientific evidence that it helps treat flaky skin caused by oily patches. Many people use aloe vera to treat oily skin.

4. Combination (such as both sensitive and dry skin)

For me, my whole life I had combination skin, it was dry and sensitive. I used to dread the winter and how the harsh temperatures would dry out my skin. Lotions and creams were definitely my best friends in the winter months!

But I also had to be careful of what lotions I chose because my skin was sensitive and some ingredients would bother me. So applying the dry skin rule and sensitive skin rule is best. Find a good lotion that doesn’t irritate your skin and be diligent with keeping your skin hydrated!

5. Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin can be difficult. Especially when you aren’t sure what your skin might react to. 

It is typically very fragile skin, that comes with discomforts such as the feeling of heat, tightness, redness, or itching. This type of skin loses its barrier (or protective) function, making it easy for microorganisms and irritant substances to enter it, and increasing the possibility of having an infection and allergic reactions.

Sensitive skin is delicate and it needs more care to fight dryness and roughness.

For me – I react to harsh ingredients so I am very cautious about what I put on it. And I even watch for what cleaners I use and use gloves when I do clean so none of the chemicals impact my skin.

Here are some tips for those of you with sensitive skin:

• Try to take shorter showers and avoid super hot water – stick to warm if you can so the hot water doesn’t irritate your skin.
• Avoid harsh astringents and exfoliants.
• Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap and even laundry detergent if you can. 
• Use essential oils instead of perfumes.
• Try oatmeal and aloe products – they can be very calming on the skin if you have a reaction.

All skin is beautiful – some of it just takes some extra care than other types.

But remember, no matter the type of skin you have – it is important to look after it and feel good in the skin you are in!