Knowing your skin type isn’t always easy, but it is essential knowledge to have when seeking out solutions, skin-care products, or dermatology services. There are four main skin types: oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. While a dermatologist can help you determine your skin type, there are some simple tests you can do at home to become more informed about your skin type.
Learn Your Skin Type
Wash your face as you would normally and pat it dry. Let it rest for 30 minutes without putting any products on it, and then come back to a mirror. Take a good look at what you see and feel with your hands. If your skin feels slick or looks greasy and shiny, that’s oily. If it feels tight, dry, or flakey, that’s dry. If you notice both dry and oily — typically seen as an oily t-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and dry cheeks/chin — you likely have combination skin. The last type, sensitive skin, may appear red and be painful to the touch. Depending on the type of sensitivity, you might need to see a dermatologist about potential solutions or diagnoses.
Now that you know your skin type, here are the best ways to care for each one.
- Oily Skin: Oily skin can accumulate dead skin cells easily, so use exfoliation and chemical peels to your advantage. Moisturizer is still necessary for oily skin, but try lighter-weight formulas that are oil-free or a gel in place of heavier creams and lotions.
- Dry Skin: Apply moisturizing products right out of the shower for maximum hydration potential. Look for ingredients such as lanolin, aloe vera, and glycerin. Try using a humidifier, but remember that hot water in the shower can dry your skin out. To combat this, try rinsing your face with cooler water.
- Combination Skin: Find the right products for each area of your face, and don’t be afraid to use two separate moisturizers or multiple types of serums to get the desired results.
- Sensitive Skin: Try all-natural skincare products to reduce your sensitivity, or try to avoid specific ingredients you know irritate your skin.
This column is sponsored by Lakeside Dermatology, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFHN or its advertisers.
BIO: Dr. Alex Kennon, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist who is fellowship-trained in Mohs micrographic surgery. He received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Florida State University and completed his dermatology residency at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University. Lakeside Dermatology has offices in Sebring and Winter Haven.
