In a world where beauty is prized, skin care reigns supreme. But before a
good skin care regime can be developed, it is important to know and
understand the type of skin you have. This vital knowledge should be
used as the basis to devise the most suitable cleansing, toning, and
moisturizing routine for yourself. If you keep to this routine
religiously, then, over a period of time, you will see the fruits of
your labor.

Basic Skin Types

In general, there are five main
skin categories – dry, normal, oily, combination, and sensitive. Of
course, normal skin is the best because it is the least problematic. It
looks clean, and has a feel of elasticity and suppleness when touched.
Even with age, those with normal skin type look good. Dry skin, on the
other hand, tend to have reddish patches, alongside flakes and fine
wrinkles, resulting in a dull and ashy appearance. In contrast, those
with oily skin suffer from shine and rather large pores. To add,
blackheads and blemishes are a part of this skin type.

Most people have combination skin, which is probably the most difficult to
take care of. For, you will have to deal with two different types of
skin behaviors at any one time – an oily T-zone, and dry cheeks.
Breakouts are quite frequent, and skin pores, especially at the nose
area, are likely to be quite visible.

How to Determine Your Skin Type

In order to determine your skin type, just answer some basic questions
like your skin’s texture, pore appearance, feeling of tightness around
the mouth and the eyes, and the existence of shine, wrinkles and
pimples. There are many internet sites that provide these easy tests.
The diagnosis will be given in a fraction of a second after you have
completed the test. Of course, if you prefer, just visit some
departmental stores that stock upmarket skin care products. There are
surely some beauticians on duty who can help you determine the skin
category you belong to.

Care for Your Skin

Once you know the category of your skin, you can look for the most suitable products
to buy and how best to use them. For example, if you have combination
skin, a balance between oil control in the T-zone, and moisture
application at other areas, is needed in order to ensure an even and
healthy skin tone. A good, mild cleanser used twice a day would be
sufficient. If you have sensitive skin, sun-screen creams and lotions
should always be applied. The cleanser to choose here is the basic,
mild, baby soap. On the other hand, dry skin calls for creamer or lotion
cleansers rather than bar soaps.

No matter what your skin type,
there are thousands of products out there you can choose from. Choose
and use the products wisely for the best skin results!