How to Identify the 5 Basic Skin Types

Not all skin is the same! To maintain a beautiful, healthy complexion, you’ll need to adjust your regimen so that it’s tailored to your specific concerns. Knowing your skin type is important, because if you don’t care for your skin in the right way—and end up using products that don’t mesh well with your type—the combination can create poor reactions and can even contribute to premature aging. The major skin types can be thought of as normal, dry, oily or acne-prone, combination, and sensitive. If you’re unsure of your skin type, a dermatologist from our Naples and Marco Island-based teams at Skin Wellness Physicians can assess your skin and help you to properly identify it.

Before you decide on a skincare routine and choose effective topical products, it’s helpful to be aware of the characteristics of each skin type:

• Normal: What is considered “normal” varies among different patients, but normal skin is generally well-balanced, healthy, hydrated, radiant, has good circulation, and is neither too oily nor too dry. This skin type tolerates most ingredients well, can handle seasonal changes, and is not prone to having breakouts.

• Dry: This skin type is dull and may have a rough texture along with more prominent lines. Dry skin often becomes irritated and cracks or peels. It usually feels very tight after being cleansed. Use moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid and ceramides to keep dry skin moisturized.

• Oily/Acne-Prone: This skin type produces excess oil and is prone to developing acne and enlarged pores. It is noticeably oily, and makeup tends to not easily stay on. Beta hydroxy acid products contain ingredients like salicylic acid that can help remove excess oil from the pores.

• Combination: If you have combination skin, it is usually oily in the T-zone areas and dry on the cheeks. You can use an acne treatment on specific areas and gently cleanse and moisturize the rest of the skin. In some individuals, seasonal changes can account for a combination skin type with a dry skin type in the winter and oily skin type in the summer. It should be noted that either can be associated with acne brekaouts.

• Sensitive: This is the most reactive type, which often breaks out into rashes and may frequently develop redness, inflammation, and itching. Avoid products with ingredients that may be too harsh or irritating.

Let us help you determine your skin type! Set up a consultation with a dermatologist in Naples or Marco Island by calling us at (239) 732-0044 or submit a form online to send us your info.

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