How
to Indentify Your Skin Type
|
by Livia Mercer
Our largest organ yet one we rarely give any thought to or
know much about. Yet skin should be our most prized asset.
Not only does it cover our bodies but also it is the canvas
that we present to the world. Therefore we are all interested
to some extent in how to keep it in the best state we can.
However our skin's needs change with age, health problems,
smoking, stress, sun exposure, hormonal changes and even with
the change of seasons.
Consequently, it is very important to understand our skin
and identify our skin type in order to meet its changing needs.
For some women this is easy, they are reasonably aware of
their skin type; for other women it's a complete mystery.
What's more, we don't always fit neatly into the categories.
Because our skin is a living organism it is always changing
and responding to either internal or external changes. Skin
types are divided into five categories. These descriptions
are a guide only and not set in stone. Just as everyone is
unique so is your skin.
NORMAL SKIN: Has an even tone and smooth texture. The
pores are generally not visible but occasional breakouts may
be experienced as well as some blackheads. There are no flaky
patches and no oily areas.
SENSITIVE SKIN: Has a delicate appearance and is commonly
dry. Pores are invisible and red spots are common. Skin is
easily irritated by water, detergents, cosmetics and even
temperature changes, amongst other things. Exposure to these
things can result in redness, a rash, itching, stinging, or
burning. Sensitive skin has a tendency to develop swollen
or broken capillaries as well as allergies. It also sunburns
easily.
DRY SKIN: Has a fine texture and is transparent looking.
It feels tight and drawn without moisturizer and tends to
have fine lines around the eyes and mouth. Dry skin is caused
by a lack of natural moisturizers within our skin or by damage
to the protective film that prevents moisture loss from within
our skin. This can be exaggerated by wind, sun, air-conditioning
and the change of seasons, all of which cause the skin to
feel taut, flake and chap.
OILY SKIN: Has an overproduction of oil which results
in frequent spots, blemishes and blackheads. Pores are generally
large and the skin's texture is thicker and coarser then the
other skin types. Skin tends to be shiny but can also dehydrate
due to harsh cleansing.
COMBINATION SKIN: Almost everyone has, to some extent
a combination of these skin types. The nose, chin, and center
of the forehead all have more oil glands than the other parts
of the face. These areas tend to be oilier and break out more
frequently than other areas. Using this guide should make
it easier for you to determine your skin type and in turn
help choose your cosmetics.
But use this as a guide only. I have dehydrated combination
skin and every cosmetics salesperson I talk to tries to sell
me gel cleansers for combination skin. Normally I like gel
cleansers however sometimes I find these leave my skin too
taught and dry. I have found a fantastic cream cleanser for
dry skin which works extremely well for me without feeling
greasy or oily.
You know your skin the best so never let someone talk you
into buying products that you don't like, even if it's the
right product for your skin type; it might not be the right
product for you. Happy beauty shopping!
© 2006-2007 Livia Mercer - The Beauty Review Online Magazine
About the Author:
Livia Mercer is the creator of The Beauty Review. A FREE monthly
online magazine for women who love beauty and cosmetics and
want REAL product reviews by REAL women. For a free, subscription,
visit: http://www.thebeautyreview.com.au
Keywords: skin types, types of skin, beauty, anti aging,
skincare
NOTE:
You're welcome to "reprint" this article online as long as
it remains complete and unaltered (including the "about the
author" info at the end), and you send a copy of your reprint
to livia@thebeautyreview.com.au
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