What is my skin type?: A Full Guide To Discover It

If you’ve ever wondered “What is my skin type?”, then this post can help! Knowing your skin type is an important first step to creating the right skincare routine for yourself. So whether you’re a seasoned skincare veteran or just beginning your journey into skin care, understanding what kind of skin you have and how to take proper care of it will serve as invaluable knowledge. 

Keep reading to discover all there is to know about finding out your skin type and getting started with a personalized routine that works for you!

What are the different types of skin?

Understanding your skin health is crucial as it is influenced by various internal and external factors, including diet, stress levels, environmental pollutants, and hormonal changes. By gaining insight into these aspects, you can better manage your unique skin type. There are six different skin types, each with its own distinctive characteristics. Let’s explore them!

1. Normal skin

Normal skin typically features a healthy texture, balanced sebum production, and an even skin tone. Look for a smooth feel, absence of sensitivity or tightness post-cleansing, and a radiant glow. To maintain this balance, employ a consistent skincare routine with a gentle cleanser and lightweight moisturizer.

2. Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin is marked by reactions to specific beauty ingredients, fluctuations in temperature, and often exhibits redness and irritation. Signs include feelings of tightness or itchiness after cleansing, sun sensitivity, and persistent redness. It’s advisable to use hypoallergenic products and incorporate soothing agents like aloe vera and chamomile to alleviate discomfort.

3. Dry skin

Dry skin can be recognized by flakiness, tightness, and visibly tight pores. Symptoms may include itchiness, redness, and patches of rough skin. To care for dry skin, consider using oil-based cleansers and cream moisturizers with hyaluronic acid to retain hydration and prevent dryness.

4. Oily skin

Oily skin is characterized by large pores and excessive sebum production, resulting in a shiny complexion. Common signs include frequent breakouts and a consistently shiny appearance in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Utilize oil-free and non-comedogenic products, and consider salicylic acid exfoliation to prevent clogged pores while maintaining moisture balance with lightweight gels.

5. Combination skin

Combination skin presents both oily regions in the T-zone and dryness around the cheeks. Look for visible pores on the nose and possible blackheads on the chin. A targeted skincare routine is essential; use mattifying products on oily areas while applying richer creams on drier patches.

6. Acne-prone skin

Identified by the presence of whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples, acne-prone skin is often aggravated by clogged pores. To manage this type effectively, incorporate benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, along with regular exfoliation to prevent further breakouts. If issues persist despite routine cleansing, consult a dermatologist for tailored advice.

How to determine skin type: The 4 Main Methods

Are you unsure of your skin type? Navigating the skincare aisle can be overwhelming with countless options available. Understanding your skin type is crucial for effective skincare. Here’s how you can identify your skin type with ease!

The Blotting Sheet Method

To determine your skin type using this method, cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry. Press a blotting sheet against various areas of your face (forehead, cheek, nose, chin) and observe for oil residue. If the sheet is oily, you likely have oily skin; if slightly oily or clear, you may have normal or combination skin; and if dry, you might have dry skin. Watch for any signs of redness post-cleanse to identify sensitive skin.

The Bare-Faced Method

Start by washing your face with a mild cleanser followed by gentle drying. Observe your skin for several hours without applying any products. If your face remains shiny, you likely have oily skin; if it feels tight yet not overly shiny, you may have normal or combination skin; persistent dryness after cleansing indicates dry skin.

Get a dermatologist's diagnosis

For a professional assessment of your skin type, consult a dermatologist. They will inquire about your skincare routine and conduct a thorough examination. Testing may be involved to accurately determine your skin type, leading to a customized treatment plan.

Do Asian Beauty Essentials’ quiz

Taking our quiz is one of the easiest ways to identify your skin type! Answer questions about how your skin feels in the morning and your primary skincare concerns, allowing us to tailor recommendations specifically for your unique skincare needs. 

Take our quiz today and discover your skin type!

Remember, skin types can evolve due to factors like aging, hormonal shifts, and environmental conditions. Regularly monitor your skin's response and adjust your skincare routine as needed. If you observe consistent changes or concerns, seeking professional advice can provide valuable guidance.

How to take care of your skin according to your skin type

Now that you know your skin type, here are some tips to take care of it. Read on!

1. Normal skin

Having normal skin and no skin concerns doesn't mean you won’t take care of it. Here is some guidance on how to properly take care of your normal skin:

Gentle exfoliate two or three times a week, a normal type of skin can exfoliate two to three times a week to remove impurities and dead skin cells, this will also clear your face and prepare it for other skincare products. Use a gentle moisturizer to give your skin a smooth appearance, just make sure to apply it gently on your skin. 

Always wear sunscreen, it is important to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily. Sunscreen should be applied every two hours when outdoors and after swimming or sweating. Sunscreen will help protect your skin from UV rays and prevent sunburns, premature aging, and other long-term skin damage. Furthermore, products with antioxidants can be beneficial for maintaining the health of normal skin as well.

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2. Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin demands extra care. That’s why you must pick label products for sensitive skin types. Here are some things to take into special consideration: 

Use a gentle moisturizer that has calming and soothing ingredients like tea tree oil, Centella Asiatica, and green tea. Look for a hypoallergenic moisturizer with natural ingredients like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid. You can keep your moisturizer cool before applying it. For sensitive skin, it is important to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, look for a non-comedogenic formula and select a product specifically made for sensitive skin. Additionally, physical blockers like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide can also be beneficial for protecting against UV rays without irritating the skin.

Look for fragrance-free products

When shopping for products specifically made for sensitive skin, it is important to look for those that are fragrance-free. Fragrances can cause a variety of reactions, such as skin irritation and inflammation, in people with sensitive skin. Make sure to read the labels on products before purchasing and avoid those with artificial fragrances or dyes. Additionally, products should be free of alcohol and harsh chemicals which can also irritate the skin.

3. Dry skin

If you have dry skin, you must look for products that provide extra moisturizing and smoothing appearance. Besides, we will give you some extra advice:

For dry skin, it is important to use a gentle cleanser that won't strip away natural oils. Look for nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid which can help to soothe and hydrate the skin. It's also recommended to use lukewarm water when cleansing, as hot water can further dry out the skin. After cleansing, make sure to apply a moisturizer containing natural oils such as avocado or jojoba oil to help lock in moisture.

For those with dry skin, it's important to use a sunscreen that offers adequate sun protection without irritating the skin. Look for gentle formulas with ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum physical sun protection. These ingredients help to form a barrier on the skin, blocking out both UVA and UVB rays. Avoid products containing alcohol or synthetic fragrances, as these can dry out the skin.

It is important to use a serum that will help to replenish and restore skin health. Look for serums containing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and vitamin E which can help to hydrate and nourish the skin. Make sure to apply your serum after cleansing but before moisturizing for maximum hydration.

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Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is key to healthy, glowing skin. Start by drinking the recommended amount of water each day, as this helps to replenish dehydrated cells and promote cell turnover.

4. Oily skin

This type of skin demands specific care as well. Look for oily skin-labeled products to control oily skin. Here are extra tips:

Oily skin requires regular cleansing to remove excess oils that can contribute to acne and clogged pores. Start by using a gentle cleanser formulated for oily skin, as this will help to reduce the production of sebum without over-stripping the skin. 

Despite being prone to excess oil, it’s important not to avoid moisturizer when you have oily skin. Moisturizing helps to balance the skin and reduce sebum production – if your skin is overly dry, your body will naturally produce more oil in an attempt to rehydrate. 

Choose a lightweight and oil-free moisturizer that won’t add any additional grease and apply it immediately after cleansing, while your face is still damp. 

Just because you have oily skin doesn’t mean you should skip sunscreen. UV rays can still cause sun damage and aging, even when your complexion appears to be shiny or greasy. Opt for an oil-free sunscreen with a matte finish, as this will help minimize the appearance of shine without blocking your pores.

5. Combination skin

The best thing for combination skin is to find the skin’s natural balance. Combination skin can require a bit more of a specialized approach, however, it is still possible to keep your skin balanced and healthy. Start your skin care regimen by cleansing your skin twice a day – once in the morning and again at night. 

Use a gentle cleanser specifically formulated for combination skin types to ensure that you don’t strip the natural oils from your skin or irritate any areas of sensitivity. Next, use an exfoliator two to three times per week to help rid the pores of any dirt and oil buildup. Finish off with an oil-balancing moisturizer that contains ingredients that won’t clog your pores or leave your face feeling too greasy. Remember to always use sunscreen.

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6. Acne-prone skin

Taking care of acne-prone skin doesn’t have to be difficult. First, establish a regular cleansing routine – this should include washing your face twice a day with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water. Then apply an oil-free moisturizer to help keep your skin hydrated while avoiding any pore-clogging ingredients. Additionally, you can use products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacteria and inflammation. During the day don’t forget to use sunscreen. Finally, avoid touching your face throughout the day, and always remove any makeup before going to bed.

Where to find all your skin type needs

When it comes to face and skin care, Asian Beauty Essentials has got you covered! Finding the best skincare routine for your particular skin type can seem daunting but with the help of Asian Beauty Essentials, it no longer has to be. 

No matter your skin type or its needs, there is a product tailored just for you at our store. With quality ingredients and an impressive selection of products to choose from crafted by the best Asian brands, there’s something perfect for everyone.