Even if you think you know, you may very well be wrong. Our skin changes as we get older, and just because you knew what it was 5 or 10 years ago, that doesn’t mean it’s the same now. Skin type can also be affected by the climate, hormones, stress and your diet.

So, how can you discover your current skin type? We’ve put together a short guide below to get you started.

Getting to know your skin

1. Dry Skin

The Dry Skin Type describes skin that produces less sebum than normal skin. As a result of the lack of sebum, dry skin is deficient in the lipids needed to retain moisture and build a protective shield. Dry skin typically looks dull and may become rough, flaky or even scaly.

Can cause:

• Almost invisible pores
• Dull, rough complexion
• Red patches
• Tight skin with little elasticity
• More visible lines
• Itches or irritation

Tips to help with dry skin:

1. Use hydrating skincare products, such as those containing ceramides and hyaluronic acid
2. Take shorter showers and baths, no more than once daily.
3. Use mild, gentle soaps or cleansers. Avoid deodorant soaps.
4. Don't scrub while bathing or drying.
5. Smooth on a rich moisturiser right after bathing. Ointments and creams may work better than lotions for dry skin but are often messier. Reapply as needed throughout the day.

2. Oily Skin

The Oily Skin Type is defined as skin that produces excess sebum which causes it to appear shiny and feel greasy. This is especially apparent in what is known commonly as the T-Zone (forehead, nose and chin). As part of its normal function, the skin is supposed to secrete natural oils to keep itself moisturised, but for people with oily skin, this process is in overdrive.

Can cause:

• Enlarged pores
• Dull or shiny, thick complexion
• Acne, blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes
• Make-up to “slide off” the face

Tips to help with oily skin:

1. Wash your face daily and after exercise with a mild, gentle facewash, but don’t scrub
2. Choose a lightweight and non-comedogenic moisturiser that won’t clog your pores
3. Don’t use oil-based or alcohol-based cleansers as these can irritate your skin
4. Use blotting papers throughout the day by gently pressing the paper against your face and leave it on for a few seconds to absorb the oil
5. Try not to touch your face throughout the day as you can spread dirt, oil and bacteria from your hands to your face

3. Combination Skin

The Combination Skin Type is thought to be one of the most common types. It tends to be oily in some areas (predominately the T-zone) and dry or normal in other areas. It may need a slightly different approach depending on each area.

Can cause:

• Pores that look larger than normal
• Blackheads and whiteheads
• Shiny skin
• Dry patches and acne breakouts at the same time

Tips to help with combination skin:

1. Use a gentle, gel-based cleanser
2. Avoid products that incorporate excessive fragrance
3. Exfoliate with a gentle exfoliant
4. Manage moisturiser needs carefully. On oilier days, use a gel-textured product, on more dry days use a richer textured product.

4. Normal Skin

The Normal Skin Type can be hard to typically define as "normal" skin simply means what is normal for you. However, the “normal skin” type can broadly be defined as skin that can tolerate most things without overreacting. It is skin that is healthy, well hydrated and radiant.

Typical signs skin is “normal”:

• Skin that isn't overly oily or dry
• Uniform texture
• No or few imperfections
• Pores that are barely visible
• A radiant complexion

Tips to look after normal skin:

1. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays to keep skin healthy
2. Apply an antioxidant serum to help prevent premature wrinkles
3. Daily use of a gentle, effective cleanser and moisturiser

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What about sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin is a skin ‘condition’ rather than a skin ‘type’. It describes skin that is more reactive than usual. It is easily irritated by the elements — wind, sun, heat, or cold — or by topical products. This happens because the protective layer of the skin surface becomes very thin. This allows irritants to penetrate the skin which can lead to redness, swelling, scaling, flaking, as well as tightening, itching, burning and prickling sensations.

To avoid irritation, avoid friction, excessive heat and triggers such as alcohol, smoking or stress. Do not over-scrub or over-exfoliate, as well as use overly harsh products. Use a gentle face wash and natural products free of irritants.

Let’s be sure!

The Anti Wrinkle Clinic are skincare specialists and we can help you get to know your skin, as well as find the best treatments for your ailments. If you’re not sure what your skin type is, or want to know more, contact us for a friendly consultation today.