What does “skin-care” actually mean?
I would say protecting the protector. Skin-the largest sense organ; the barrier sheath against pathogens; Natural bodyguard holding the internal organs within. It performs a whole lot so it certainly requires some care to keep up with its work. Protection from UV rays, various diseases such as skin cancer. Routine to have the desired healthy skin is what skincare refers to.
The protective layer of soft tissues covering our body needs to be taken care of according to its type. Have you ever thought different skin types react differently to a particular ingredient? Cosmetic dermatologists are of the view that knowing your skin type is essential as it plays a major role in determining the skincare products best suited for you.
Using the wrong products might become the worse nightmare for your skin. Know your skin type and give it the care of products it likes.
How will this article help you?
Since the meaning of skincare has widened its scope, it might be a bit confusing for the newbies. So, here we are to help you with your skincare quest.
This article is to guide you thoroughly, from the very basic. If you are not sure about what is your skin type scroll down to find out. Want some simple and useful skincare tips as per your skin type? Don’t worry we have got you.
Let’s begin
What are the basic skin types?
Saying about the basic skin types we mainly have:
1 Dry Skin
2 Oily Skin
3 Combination Skin
4 Sensitive skin
5 Normal skin
A. Dry Skin
Skin lacks moisture thus having a rough and tight appearance. This could be because of genetics, seasonal changes, or age factor.
You have dry skin if it is:
• Flaky
• Itchy
• Unevenly textured
• Rough and tight
Product Choice
If you have dry skin, prefer the products which could hydrate your skin. Mild exfoliation is good for the radiant look. Go for the products containing hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, Shea butter, and glycerine. Stuff which has alcohol or fragrances as their ingredient is a BIG NO.
Some useful tips:
• Keep yourself well hydrated
• To retain softness in your skin keep moisturising it regularly.
• Avoid long/hot showers
• Pat dry the skin gently
B. Oily skin
Excess secretion of the natural oil called sebum underlying the skin is known as oily skin type. This might even be because of the hormonal changes which occur during puberty.
Your skin is oily if:
• It is greasy
• Prone to acne breakouts
• Have large pores
Product choice
For this skin type look for products that are efficient in controlling sebum production. Especially the one containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and tea tree oils. Matt-based commodities are made for oily skin. While occlusive such as petroleum jelly, silicone, cocoa butter, or Shea butter is not your cup of tea.
Some measures for oily skin
• Prefer washing your face at least twice a day
• Use a soft towel to pat dry the skin
• Drink enough water to retain moisture
• Moisturise regularly
C. Combination skin type
The combination skin type is the blend of the above two skin types- dry skin and oily skin. It is the result of climate, harsh cosmetics or it could be inherited in genes.
People with combination skin:
• Have sensitive cheeks
• Cheeks are dry but the T-zone(face, nose chin, and forehead) is oily
• Forehead, nose, and chin region is prone to breakouts
Product choice
Choose mild and skin-balancing products along with those having peptides and hyaluronic acid. Avoid the products where ingredients benzoyl peroxide and retinol, vitamin C and ferulic acid, vitamin C and retinol, vitamin B3 and Alpha Hydroxy Acids are grouped. Prefer oil-free products.
Some useful tips:
• Use oil-free sunscreen
• While scrubbing/exfoliating go easy on T-zone
• Use gentle cleanser
D. Sensitive skin
Skin adversely responding to the use of any new products and is prone to inflammation.
Sensitive skin is:
• Tight
• Itchy
• Oily in summers and dry in winters
• Itchy while wearing tight clothes
• Irritated with the intake of spicy food
• Suffers severely from allergies
Product choice
People with sensitive skin have to choose carefully otherwise the skin might react negatively. Stay away from chemical sunscreens, harsh exfoliates, alcohol, and fragrance based products. Look up the ingredients such as turmeric, aloe Vera, lactic acid, or oat oil.
Some useful tips
• The patch test is mandatory before using any product
• Use a mild cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen
• Avoid excessive use of products.
E. Normal skin
Consider yourself lucky if you have normal skin. A little bit of everything. It is neither too oily nor too dry. We can say it has good blood circulation and well-balanced sebum production and ph levels.
Normal skin is identified as:
• Smooth
• Few /no outbreaks
• No visible pores
• No blemishes
Product choice
If you have normal skin, it does not mean that it does not demand care. Polyhydroxy acids, glycolic acids, stem cells, and antioxidants are some components this skin type loves.
Normal skin type people should:
• Drink a wholesome amount of water
• Use sunscreen
• Use moisturizer
And there you have it,
As of now you have known your skins type also the dos and don’ts for the product ingredients. Don’t fall into trap of appealing cosmetic advertisements. Choose wisely. GIVE YOUR SKIN THE BEST CARE AS PER ITS NEED.