Your skin is the largest organ of your body, it protects you, shelters you, and is the barrier against so much.
It is important that we do our part to understand and take care of it as best we can. Different skin types should be treated differently to help it look fresh and healthy.
There is a huge amount of information and products out there, but not everything will be suited to your skin, so here is a beginners guide to understanding your skin type.
Types of Skin
Normal Skin
Normal skin is another way of saying skin is well-balanced - not too oily or dry. Those with normal skin may experience oiliness or dryness during different Seasons. Signs of normal skin include: smooth texture, no blemishes and fine, small pores.
Dry Skin
Dry skin is caused by a lack of sebum in the skin and lack of water in the upper layers of the skin. Signs of dry skin include: visible fine lines, dullness, flakiness, and skin that can feel tight after cleansing.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum, which can lead to excess oil on the skin, plus congested/blocked pores. Signs of oily skin include: visible excess oil on the skin which often has a sheen, visible pores on the face, acne/blemishes across the face including blackheads, scars or marks that linger on the skin.
Combination Skin
Combination skin, skin that cannot make it's mind up! Generally combination skin has an oily t-zone (the forehead and down the nose) and the cheeks are normal or dry skin. Signs of combination skin include: skin can feel tight or dry during the Winter months, enlarged pores mainly in the t-zone, skin may look tired or in need of a glow, signs of aging and loss of tone.
It's important to note that your skin type can change. It is not fixed, and can change due to a number of factors - including age, environment and hormones. It's important to know what skin type you are, and change your skincare routine in lines with your skins needs!
Skincare Terms to Know
Sensitive Skin
Sensitivity can affect all skin types.
Signs that your skin is sensitive include: skin that can get rashes or can experience allergic reactions, fine pores, skin flushes easily, prone to broken capillaries.
Dehydrated Skin
Dehydration isn't a skin type, but rather a condition that can affect all other skin types including oiler skin.
It is caused by a lack of water in the diet. Signs of dehydrated skin include: the complexion appears dull, skin may have dry patches, oily skin may feel dry and fine lines may appear more pronounced.
Your Skincare Dictionary
- Dermis - The layer of skin that houses your connective tissues, blood vessels, oil and sweat glands. It is the messenger between your external environment and your body.
- Epidermis - This layer of skin is actually made up of many layers. It creates a waterproof barrier that keeps bacteria at bay, and locks in nutrients!
- Hypodermis - Between your dermis and the underlying tissues, this layer of skin helps to regulate the temperature of your body, and helps to keep your skin supple and firm.
- Cell Cycle - This is the process of a new skin cell forming within the epidermis and working its way up to the skin's surface. As you age, this cycle begins to slow down and take longer.
- Melanin - This is the natural pigment of the skin. Hair, skin and eye colour is all determined by the type and amount you have!
- Intrinsic Aging - This is the natural aging of the skin. This is beyond our control, for example, genetics!
- Extrinsic Aging - The aging of the skin can be accelerated due to environmental factors, including sun exposure, pollution and smoking.
- Hyperpigmentation - This is a condition arising from excess melanin in the skin, resulting in darker spots. This can be caused by a number of factors, including sun damage, age, scarring and hormones.
Being aware of your skin type, skin concerns and important terms can help so much with your skincare journey. We hope this helps you to finding the perfect recipe and routine for you!
For more beauty advice, visit us in-store or browse our beauty collection online here.
- Niamh x
