What Skin Type Are You?

There are three basic skin types: oily, normal/combination and dry skin. It’s important to understand your skin type so you’re able to determine the most healthy products to use, especially on your face.

The easiest and simplest way to estimate your skin type is by using a blotting sheet. Pat a blotting sheet on different areas of your face. When you hold the sheet up to the light, you’ll be able to tell how much oil your face is producing. If the sheet has a significant amount of oil, you likely have oily skin. If oil is only moderately picked up around the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin), you likely have normal/combination skin. If the sheet has little to no oil, you likely have dry skin.

Oily: Oily skin is just that – skin with excess oil. Pores are at risk of becoming congested due to too much oil production. A gentle exfoliator is suggested when washing oilier skin. Avoid large beads in exfoliations as washing too roughly can cause tiny tears. Anti-bacterial exfoliants can also help clear acne quickly.

Normal/Combination: People with normal/combination skin type tend to have a moisturized T-zone but can also experience occasional dryness of the cheeks. Gentle exfoliation is key to keeping the face evenly balanced.

Dry: Dry skin can be caused by genetics, climate, hormonal changes and diet. People with dry skin often experience a feeling of tightness on their face and sometimes flaking. Gentle exfoliations without abrasives are suggested to help moisturize dry skin. Key ingredients to look for are sodium hyaluronate, glycerin, algae and camellia oil.

Of course, using a blotting sheet is not a proven medical practice to define what skin type you are. If concerned about your skin, contact a dermatologist by calling our office at 865-690-9467 or visiting our website.