By - Isabella Johns
When building a skincare routine, the key factor to consider is your natural skin type. There are five different skin types: normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Each skin type comes with its own set of challenges and benefits that need to be considered when formulating your skincare routine. Whichever skin type you may have, you should incorporate a cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF that works for you. However, different ingredients work best for different skin types. Once you're aware of your skin type, you'll successfully be able to produce a routine that aligns with your skin’s needs.
Let's explore the five different skin types and skincare routines that are best suited for each:
Normal Skin Routine
If you have normal skin, that means your skin’s pH balance and oil production is working properly. It’s still highly important to take care of your skin even though there are no obvious problems. Maintaining your skin is the key to a youthful appearance.
For normal skin, choosing a cleanser is mainly based on preference. Either an oil, foam or gel-based cleanser should do. Next, use a toner to provide hydration. Protect your complexion by adding an antioxidant-rich serum. You always want to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, even if you have normal skin. Add a light moisturizer on top; Beekman 1802's Bloom Cream Daily Moisturizer. It’s great for restoring hydration and giving a youthful appearance. Lastly and most importantly, add the SPF of your choice.
Oily Skin Routine
With oily skin, it’s important to provide the necessary amount of moisture without it becoming excessive. The key is to find products that provide light hydration to avoid an overly shiny appearance. This will also help bring breakouts to a minimum.
It’s time to bust a skincare myth. Oily skin types can use oil-based cleansers. They can help to improve the skin by absorbing excess sebum. Start by washing your face with an oil-based cleanser. Then exfoliate and moisturize the skin with Clean Complexion Duo from Farmacy. The Clean Complexion Duo is perfect for providing a deep cleaning tone and a lightweight moisturizer that controls shine. Lastly, add SPF on top.
Dry Skin Routine
If you have dry skin, this means you have a difficult time retaining water. Since your skin’s natural barrier is having a hard time producing oil, it’s important to use products that bring moisture back to your skin.
Start by cleansing your face with an oil-based cleanser. This will help to nourish the skin. Gently exfoliate the skin once a week to remove dead skin cells. Next, apply a toner to help balance your skin’s pH level. Then use Biossance’s Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer. This moisturizer helps to reduce signs of redness while leaving the skin more balanced and calm. Lastly, add SPF to complete your routine.
Combination Skin Routine
It can be difficult to care for combination skin because it involves two conflicting areas. It’s best to use gentle products that moisturize the dry areas while avoiding excessive oil. If you have specific issues regarding your skin, only apply treatment to those problem areas.
Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser such as Eucalyptus Cleansing Concentrate by Eminence. This gentle gel cleanser helps with over-reactive and sensitive skin, making it perfect for combination skin types. Then use a toner to remove oil that your cleanser may have missed. Only apply the toner to the oily areas of your face. The most important part of your routine revolves around moisturizer. Use a cream-based moisturizer on the dry areas and a lightweight moisturizer on the oily areas. Lastly, add SPF to finish off the look.
Sensitive Skin Routine
Sensitive skin is characterized by the skin’s response to products, foods, and environmental factors. Each individual can have a different level of sensitivity. It’s recommended to use mild skin care products that avoid irritation.
Start by using Tula’s Gentle Sensitive Skin Cleansing Milk. It’s formulated without fragrance so that even the most irritated skin will feel calm after use. Then use a toner to help remove any lingering oil and dirt. It’s best to use toners that are alcohol-free or have minimal amounts of alcohol. Next, add hyaluronic acid to promote collagen and hydration. Apply a fragrance-free and lightweight moisturizer to help reduce the risk of irritation. Lastly, add SPF that’s sensitive skin safe.
Knowing your skin type can help you purchase products and develop a skincare routine that aligns with your skin’s needs. Certain products that work for your sister or best friend may not work for you, and that’s okay — this is because they have a different skin type than you. You know your skin the best, so produce a routine that works best for you.