There are 5 basic skin care types: Oily, combination, sensitive, dry & sun-damaged. Your skin type is determined by how much -- or how little -- oil your skin produces. Genes, diet, stress level, medication & even your skincare regimen all determine how much oil your skin produces. Here's how to tell what skin type you have. To do this, Berg suggests you take the 'skin test.' Wash your face, pat it dry, then take a few pieces of rice paper or lens-cleaning tissue paper & press on different spots on your face. If your skin is oily, the paper will stick, pick up oily spots & become translucent. If the paper doesn't stick or pick up any oily spots, your skin is dry. If it sticks in your t-zone (forehead, nose & chin) then you have combination (or normal) skin. About 70 percent of women have combination skin.{br] Here are the 5 different skin types & their characteristics.
- Oily Oily skin tends to shiny with enlarged pores, and is prone to blackheads & blemishes. You might experience some tightness.
- Combination/normal This skin type has medium pores, a smooth & even texture, good circulation, healthy color, may tend toward dryness on the cheeks while being oily in the t-zone.
- Sensitive Sensitive skin tends to be thin, delicate with fine pores. It flushes easily, is prone to broken capillaries, is frequently allergic & can be rashy.
- Dry Dry skin feels tight, especially after cleansing, & have fine wrinkles, flaking & red patches. In women of color, skin may appear ashy or dull from dead skin buildup.
- Aging or sun-damaged This skin also feels tight with visible wrinkles, slack skin tone -- especially around the cheeks & jawline -- with leathery texture & broken capillaries.
