Whenever you watch videos on social media or read articles by doctors about a skincare routine, you will notice they all advise that you should first identify your skin type.
This is absolutely necessary. There are two main types: dry and oily.
The question is, how will you know if you have dry or oily skin?
We explain.
Signs of Dry Skin
Dry skin typically:
- Feels tight, this is noticeable most after cleansing
- Appears dull or rough
- May have some visible flaking or peeling
- Is more likely to get fine lines and wrinkles
- Has small, barely visible pores
- Doesn’t experience breakouts as often
If you have dry skin, you may notice the following signs:
- Itching or irritation
- Redness or inflammation
- A feeling of discomfort or tightness throughout the day
Signs of Oily Skin
Oily skin usually:
- Looks shiny, particularly in the forehead, nose, and chin or the T-zone
- Has enlarged, visible pores
- Is more likely to get blackheads, whiteheads, and acne
- Feels greasy, especially as the day progresses
- Makeup tends to slide off or doesn’t stay on for long and looks patchy
People with oily skin generally notice:
- A need to blot excess oil throughout the day
- Frequent breakouts
- Makeup that doesn’t last long
How to Test Your Skin Type
There is no rocket science involved in finding out which skin type you have.
Here are two simple methods to determine if you have dry or oily skin:
1. The Bare-Faced Method
- With a mild cleanser, wash your face and pat dry.
- Wait for 30 minutes and don’t apply any products.
- Now observe your skin:
- If it feels tight and appears dull, you seem to have dry skin.
- If it’s shiny, you have oily skin.
2. The Blotting Sheet Method
- Use blotting paper on different areas of your face.
- Hold the paper up to the light:
- If there’s little to no oil visible, you likely have dry skin.
- If the sheet is oily, you have oily skin.
Other Considerations
Now, you may not be happy with which skin type you diagnosed yourself with, but remember that skin type can be influenced by multiple factors, for example:
- Genetics
- Hormonal changes
- Climate and season
- Diet and lifestyle
- Skincare products
It’s also possible to have combination skin, where some areas are dry and others are oily.
Contact A Dermatologist
If you’re unsure about your skin type or have concerns, it is always safe to get in touch with a dermatologist; they can provide you with personalized insights and recommendations that help you know about the right skincare routine.
This skin care will involve knowing the best and appropriate skincare products that will address your skin’s unique needs.
For example, for oily skin, your dermatologist will ask you to stay away from oil-based products, and if you have dry skin, your dermatologist may suggest replacing any water-based moisturizers.
Normally, people with oily skin tend to make the mistake of washing their face multiple times in hopes of getting rid of the oil altogether; this is counter-productive. Ironically, to compensate, your body will produce more oil.
Without a dermatologist, you may even fall into the trap of believing some myths, for example, not moisturizing your skin thinking the oily skin is enough – but even oily skin needs a moisturizer; it just needs the right kind.
Final Thoughts
Once you understand your skin type, you can finally get that healthy and balanced complexion you have always wanted.
A dermatologist is the best person to give you important advice on how to take care of your skin in the summer, how to get rid of oily skin, manage dry skin, deal with acne, etc.
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