Dear Audrey,
I have dry skin, but in some places it gets oily. How can I tell what my skin type is?
Navigating skin care can be tricky. Here is a guide to different skin types and their coordinating products to help you put your best face forward!
NORMAL SKIN
- Few or no imperfections
- Not prone to sensitivity
- Barely visible pores
- A radiant, smooth complexion
You may like:
Active Moist Moisturizer and Special Cleansing Gel Cleanser
COMBINATION SKIN (common)
- Some larger than normal pores
- Occasional blackheads or blemishes (T-zone). Fight them off with This Blackhead Clearing Duo.
- Shiny skin (T-zone)
You may like:
glo Skin Beauty’s Balancing Moisture Remedy moisturizer and Purifying Gel Cleanser
DRY SKIN
- Almost invisible pores
- Dull, rough complexion
- Red patches
- Poor elasticity
- Visible (premature) fine lines
Common causes and triggers:
- Your genes
- Aging or hormonal changes
- Exposure to wind, sun, or cold
- UV rays from tanning
- Indoor heating
- Long, hot baths or showers
- Harsh cleansers and cosmetics
- Medications
To soothe symptoms:
- Take shorter, cooler showers, no more than once a day. Use mild, gentle soaps or cleansers. Avoid deodorant type soaps. Do not scrub while bathing and pat your skin dry.
- Apply a moisturizer within 5 minutes of bathing. Reapply as needed.
- Keep your thermostat at a mild temperature and use a humidifier.
- Wear gloves when using chemicals for cleaning or doing dishes.
You may like:
Hydrating Gel Cleanser and Skin Hydrating Masque
OILY SKIN
- Enlarged pores
- Dull or typically shiny complexion
- Blackheads, pimples, or blemishes
Common causes and triggers:
- Puberty or other hormonal imbalances
- Stress
- Poor diet
- Heat or high humidity
To soothe symptoms:
- Wash twice a day, especially after strenuous activity or perspiration.
- Use gentle cleansers and don’t scrub.
- Do not pick or squeeze pimples. Use a comedo extractor for blackheads.
- Use only non-comedogenic cosmetics and skin care products. They won’t clog your pores.
You may like:
Medibac Acne Clearing Kit and Clear Complexion Pads
SENSITIVE SKIN
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning
- Dryness
To soothe symptoms:
Try to find out what products or specific ingredients you have sensitivities to. Certain product lines are hypoallergenic and safe for all skin types like Dermalogica’s UltraCalming line.
Are you close to or over 40?
Then let’s talk Anti-Aging!
Even if you do not show signs of aging (lucky duck!) at your age, it is recommended that you use anti-aging products. We love the AgeSmart line from Dermalogica. Some products we cannot live without are the Super Rich Repair and the Skin Resurfacing Cleanser. The cleanser gently removes buildup and the Rich Repair re-hydrates leaving your skin soft, radiant and refreshed.
For all skin types, always remember to wear broad spectrum SPF, drink plenty of water, and wash before bed.
Love your face!
Have a beauty-related question? We'd love to hear it, and so would our readers. Email your questions to Westside Beauty Supply.
We’d love to help.
If you don't have a stylist or esthetician you work with, give us a call and we'll set up an appointment to help you with your skin-care or hair-care products. We have several make-up artists who are happy to help you find new colors and techniques that make you feel beautiful. Letting us know when you are coming in will ensure we can give you all our attention. This is a free service, and there is no obligation to buy our products.
