What’s Your Skin Type? Skin types include normal, oily, dry, and sensitive. Some people also have a combination of skin types in different areas of their skin. Your skin type can change over time. For example, younger people are more likely than older people to have a normal skin type. What Influences Your Skin Type Almost everything can influence skin type—both external and internal elements can and do impact the way your skin looks and feels. To effectively evaluate your skin type here are some of the factors that need to be considered, because its possible that your skin is simply reacting to influences that are easily isolated or are within your control. • Hormones • Skin Disorders • Genetic Predisposition • Smoking & Secondhand Smoke • Medications • Diet • Your Skin-Care Routine • Stress • Unprotected/Prolonged Sun Exposure • Pollution • Climate Normal Skin Type Normal skin is not too dry and not too oily. It has: • No or few imperfections • No severe sensitivity • Barely visible pores • A radiant complexion Combination Skin Type A combination skin type can be dry or normal in some areas and oily in others, such as the T-zone (nose, forehead, and chin). Many people have combination skin, which may benefit from slightly different types of skin care in different areas. Combination skin can produce: • Overly dilated pores • Blackheads • Shiny skin Dry Skin Type Dry skin can produce: • Almost invisible pores • Dull, rough complexion • Red patches • Less elasticity • More visible lines When exposed to drying factors, skin can crack, peel, or become itchy, irritated, or inflamed. If your skin is very dry, it can become rough and scaly, especially on the backs of your hands, arms, and legs. Dry skin may be caused or made worse by: • Genetic factors • Aging or hormonal changes • Weather such as wind, sun, or cold • Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from tanning beds • Indoor heating • Long, hot baths and showers • Ingredients in soaps, cosmetics, or cleansers • Medications Here are some tips for taking better care of dry skin: • Take shorter showers and baths, no more than once daily. • Use mild, gentle soaps or cleansers. Avoid deodorant soaps. • Dont scrub while bathing or drying. • Apply a rich moisturizer right after bathing. Ointments and creams may work better than lotions for dry skin but are often messier. Reapply as needed throughout the day. • Use a humidifier and dont let indoor temperatures get too hot. • Wear gloves when using cleaning agents, solvents, or household detergents. Oily Skin Type Oily skin can produce: • Enlarged pores • Dull or shiny, thick complexion • Blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes Oiliness can change depending upon the time of year or the weather. Oily skin can be caused or made worse by: • Puberty or other hormonal imbalances • Stress • Exposure to heat or too much humidity To take care of oily skin: • Wash your skin no more than twice a day and after you perspire heavily. • Use a gentle cleanser and dont scrub. • Dont pick, pop, or squeeze pimples. This prolongs healing time. • Use products labeled as noncomedogenic. They tend not to clog pores. Sensitive Skin Type If your skin is sensitive, try to find out what your triggers are so you can avoid them. You may have sensitive skin for a variety of reasons, but often its in response to particular skin care products. Sensitive skin can show up as: • Redness • Itching • Burning • Dryness The Basics of Skin Care These tips will help your skin stay healthier no matter its type. • Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Avoid direct sunlight and wear a hat and sunglasses. • Dont smoke. • Stay hydrated. • Wash your skin thoroughly every day and never wear makeup to bed. Moisturize your skin.
Posted on: Fri, 17 Oct 2014 07:50:48 +0000
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