A Simple Guide to Identifying Your Skin Type

These days social media is supercharged with tips and tricks on how to look your best and how to choose the right skincare regime. Right from experts, dermatologists to influencers everyone has something to say on the topic. The skincare industry is no longer just about creams and lotions, today, it's about self care and wellness. Skincare is a way of life, and with the right skincare regime, you can not only look but also feel your best. But doesn’t this beg the question of which skincare products to use? The variety of ointments, oils and masks available in the market cannot help you unless you are able to identify your skin type.

Read on to figure out what your skin type is and how your skin can thrive by using the right ingredients and products for your skin type.

How to find my skin type?

There are the basic types of skin: normal, oily, dry, sensitive and combination skin. This simple skin test can help you identify yours. Wash and cleanse your face. Next, using a towel, pat dry. Wait for about 20 minutes. Apply three strips of tape to your face: one across your brow, one down the length of your nose, and one across one of your cheeks near your jawline. After three to five minutes, remove the tapes to examine them.

1. If you see flakes, you have dry skin;

2. If you see tiny oil droplets, you have oily skin;

3. If you see a little of both, you have combination skin; and,

4. If you see redness, you have sensitive skin.

All skincare products are not geared towards a certain skin type. Some are generalised, while others specifically cater to a certain skin type. Determining your skin type can definitely be a tad tricky, but here are a few prominent features of each of these skin types to help you identify them in more detail, along with ingredient recommendations.

Dry Skin

Your skin may feel stretched and tight in certain areas due to the lack of greasiness. If you look closely, you might notice flakes of skin on your face's surface. If you want the best moisturiser for dry and sensitive skin, look for one that contains gentle ingredients and hydrating agents with a balanced pH.

Oily Skin

Oily skin is distinguished by clogged and open pores, an oily sheen, and a natural tendency for acne. Look for oil-free and alcohol-free ingredients in all skincare products.

Combination Skin

Your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) is frequently oily, while the rest of the face is dry and flaky. You may discover that the products you use have a milder formulation and are similar to those for oily skin.

Sensitive Skin

Your skin may be allergic to a variety of normal skincare products, resulting in redness and a burning sensation. It is critical to moisturise this skin type; milk is the best moisturiser for dry sensitive skin because it contains no alcohol or unnecessary fragrance.