Determining Your Skin Type

October 7th, 2016

By Knoxville Dermatology Group

When choosing makeup and skincare products, the different choices based on your skin type can be overwhelming. There are three skin types oily, dry or combination. In order to determine which skin type you have, you can perform a basic wash and wait test.

First, clean your face with a gentle cleanser and blot the water off with a towel until it’s dry. Wait two hours and analyze your skin for shiny spots. If there are no shiny spots anywhere then you most likely have dry skin. If you have shiny spots just on your nose or forehead then you most likely have combination skin. If you have additional shiny spots, and your face is slick to touch, then you have oily skin.

Dry skin

Dry skin is usually due to genetics but can be affected by some environmental factors such as diet, hormone changes and climate. Having a lack of water in your system can also affect the aridness of your skin. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help with the dryness.

Combination skin

This type of skin usually shows oil in the t-zone while the cheeks are still dry. This is normal because there is a higher amount of oil glands in the t-zone. Using moisturizers with a gel-like substance are usually better because the skin can absorb it quicker.

Oily skin

Although oily skin can keep skin looking younger longer, it also can clog pores and cause breakouts. Oily skin is characterized by oil like texture on areas outside of the t-zone after the wash and wait test. Exfoliating your face is good for people with this skin type.

Need further help determining your skin type? Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today to make an appointment at (865) 690-9467.