Different skin types can have very different needs when it comes to care, but how do you identify what skin type you have?
We’ve all got different skin in some way or another and it can change with age, with the seasons and even display different characteristics at different times of the month.
Some skin is oily, while other people suffer from dryness. Or maybe you have to contend with both? Don’t worry, it’s completely normal. In this post, I’ll run through the five main skin types, how to get familiar with yours and, best of all, how to care for it!
Dry skin
If your skin is rough or flaky to the touch, or just feels tight all over, you probably have dry skin. Don’t worry. It’s really common and there’s plenty you can do to fix it.
Putting moisture back into your skin is obviously number one on my list. The only problem is that shiny look or heavy feeling that some moisturisers have. I always recommend a non-greasy formula like our Whipped Cream Moisturiser, which will keep your skin softer without the added extras.
As with any skin type, exfoliating is also important for dry skin. Just be careful not to overdo it, as it could make things even worse. I’d stick to once a week until the dryness clears up.
Oily skin
Oily skin is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s an excess of oil, usually on your face. It can look and feel greasy, which isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. And people with oily skin often have to contend with acne or spots too! Not fair!
So, what can you do? My number one tip is to keep your skin clean and clear of dirt and make-up. These can both build up over time if your skin isn’t exfoliated properly, congesting your pores and causing excess sebum, blackheads and spots. No thanks!
Our six-step starter kit allows you to exfoliate your skin to different levels and reduce excess oil, while keeping skin moisturised and healthy.
Combination skin
Sometimes, my customers are baffled when their skin is both dry and flaky in some patches, but oily in others. Sound familiar? You’ve got what’s known as combination skin. The good news is, it’s not as tricky as it sounds.
First of all, it’s a good idea to exfoliate two or three times a week, rather than the one or two times I’d usually recommend. But if you’re looking for a real miracle worker, try out our Chocolate Enzyme Peel. It’s ideal for combination skin, as it balances out oily patches and nourishes dry areas without increasing oil. A win-win.
Sensitive skin
I’ve met so many people with sensitive skin, so I know full well how hard it can be. If most of the products you try leave your skin red or irritated, you’re probably part of this group. The worst bit is, even some of the products claiming to help with sensitive skin can make things worse.
Here comes the science! Sensitive skin gets irritated by synthetic fragrances or chemicals like parabens, which are used in a lot of high-street products. Instead, I’d suggest using products with gentle, natural ingredients and exfoliating no more than once a week. Any more could irritate your skin.
Well-balanced skin
As the name suggests, well-balanced skin isn’t particularly dry, oily or sensitive. Jackpot! But it still needs proper care. With age, hormones or weather conditions, skin can change all the time. Even if you have well-balanced skin, I’d recommend using a daily cleanser like our Squeaky Clean Cleanser to remove dirt, make-up or other nasty stuff.
Keeping your skin moisturised and hydrated is also big must for all skin types. Use a lighter moisturiser every day and a super-nourishing product whenever your skin feels drier.
Find the perfect products for you
Skin types, whichever one you are it’s important to be aware of it and find the skincare products and routine that work for you. Still not sure which skin type you are? Or want to double check? Have a go with our Online Prescription Tool. It will find the perfect fit for you and give you tailored advice on the products you should use and how to use them. Thank me later!