What Are The Different Facial Skin Types & How Do You Determine Yours?

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Facial Skin Types – Why Is It Important To Identify Your Skin Type?

One thing we often forget to think about when we first start getting into makeup is what type of skin we have.  There are several different facial skin types and knowing yours will help you choose your makeup and skincare products wisely.

Using the correct products on your face will keep your skin looking its best and prevent major makeup dilemmas!

 You can use THESE to test your skin.  Keep reading to find out how!

Identifying Different Facial Skin Types

There are five different facial skin types – normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive.  Let’s take a look at each one to help you to identify your skin type.

This is a great read if you want more in depth information on different facial skin types and their proper care.

Normal Skin Type

Normal skin feels quite comfortable.  Pores are not so noticeable, and the skin has a pretty smooth and even texture.  It’s never too dry or too greasy looking.  It’s just well-balanced all around.

Oily Skin Type

Oily skin is shiny and greasy looking throughout the entire face.  This skin type can tend to have larger pores that are more visible and can be prone to acne.  It never feels tight or uncomfortable because of the natural moisture from the oil.

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Dry Skin Type

Dry skin can feel tight and uncomfortable.  Oftentimes the skin will be flaky and have a rough texture.  Fine lines and wrinkles will also be more noticeable.  The skin can have an overall dull appearance.

Combination Skin Type

If you have this facial skin type it means you have a combination of both oily and dry areas on your face.  Typically, the T-zone will be oily, and the cheeks will be dry.  However, it can be any combination of oily and dry patches on the skin.

Sensitive Skin Type

Sensitive skin is a little tricky.  It can actually be any of the above skin types, but with the added bonus of being easily irritated by most cosmetics due to having a weaker skin barrier.  It can be very prone to redness, burning, itching, and acne.

Related Article:  How To Choose The Right Foundation Makeup For Your Skin Type

How To Determine Your Skin Type

Determining your skin type shouldn’t be difficult at all.  You can simply take a look in the mirror and identify if your skin looks greasy, flaky, or well balanced.

If you’re still having trouble, a quick little test using oil blotting sheets will also help you identify your skin type.

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets

Simply grab an oil blotting sheet and press it on different parts of your face.  Take a look at the sheet each time you press against your skin.  You’ll have a good idea of what your skin type is based on how the oil blotting sheet looks after you do that.

If your blotting sheet comes back only slightly damp, then you most likely have normal, well-balanced skin.

If every part of your face causes your oil blotting sheet to come back soaked, then you have oily skin.  You’ll find yourself having to use multiple sheets.

If the oil blotting sheet comes back dry after you’ve pressed it all over your face, then you have dry skin.
Lastly, if some parts of your skin cause the blotting sheet to come back soaked and other parts come back dry, then you have combination skin.

Also, you’ll know if you have sensitive skin based on how it reacts to cosmetics.  If it’s easily irritated and gets red with most products, it means you’re sensitive.

Know Your Skin Type Before Shopping For Makeup

It’s important to know your skin type before going shopping for makeup and skincare products.  Different facial skin types have different needs.  Being aware of your skin’s needs will allow you to choose makeup products that are better suited for it.

Hope this helps!

If you want more in depth information on identifying skin type, check out this amazing book!