Search:

Skin Care and Addressing Your SpecialSkin Type

Knowing your skin type is one of the first |steps many people take when putting together a skin care regimen. However, what most people don't consider is that a person's skin type usually doesn't fall into one of the rigid categories that are often used to define skin type. Before you can draw up a skin care plan this is beneficial for you, it is a good idea to get past the oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, mature skin definitions and realize that everyone has some form of combination skin. Combination skin is simply saying that parts of each person's skin may have one skin type and some parts will have a different one.

For example, on your face, you may be dealing with dry skin on your cheek and neck areas and also be dealing with oily skin on the forehead, nose and chin, also known as the T-zone. For some, this type of situation may exist on the back, arms, chest, etc. When choosing skin care products you should be cautious not to select those that treat one specific skin type. A heavy moisturizer on oily skin is not something you want to use since it can block your pores and trigger even more oil (sebum) on the skin.

Below are the four most commonly defined skin types and some basic reference for good skin care for each. This is by no means a exhaustivecomprehensive guide but can help you in deciding which type of products should be used to treat each type of skin.

Oily Skin Type

This skin type is almost always caused by problems related to the sebaceous glands in the skin. These glands generate sebum which is the oily substance that causes greasy, shiny (oily) skin. The areas most associated with this type of skin are in the T-zone on the face, the back and chest. Medium to large pores are also common with this skin type and this is a main reason why acne and blemishes are often connected with oily skin (although it is clogged pores that are usually the culprit).

Skin care for oily skin should include cleansing with water, gel, milk or clay based cleansers. These take away oil without stripping away the moisture in the skin. Herbal astringents are also good to deep clean - avoid alcohol based skin toners. Lightweight moisturizer (aloe based) is a must to avoid introductin more oil production.

Those with Dry Skin

Dry skin lacks the natural oil and moisture production that the skin relies on to remain balanced and soft. Scaly, flaky texture that is rough to the touch is most often associated with dry skin. Small pores and tightness are commonly related with this skin type and fine lines will appear more easily on dry skin.

Skin care probably should include a moisture rich cleanser such as those found in milk or cream based sin care products. Try to avoid using commercially produced bar soaps and other skin products that may condition the skin to become even more dry. Essential oils are also a wise choice to look for. Skin toners should be used lightly. The ingredients found in these can irritate dry skin. Heavy moisturizes are a excellent good way to go after exfoliating the dead cells that show up more frequently with dry skin. These cells can clog pores and promote acne breakouts.

Skin Sensitivity

When the skin is sensitive, it reacts faster to irritants than the several other skin types. Compounds in skin care products and environmental conditions often leave the skin raw and red. The desired result in treating sensitive skin is provide the nutrients and moisture that that is essential without introducing elements that cause inflammation and irritation. Sensitive skin also often includes a dry skin condition.

Skin care for sensitive skin should be free of all fragrances and color additives. Natural or organic treatments are a good way to go here, especially those with aloe, jojoba and other organic essential oils. With cleansing and toning, the key word is "non-abrasive". What you want to avoid is to directly apply abrasive cloths, scrubs or chemicals. Light to medium weight moisturizers and emollients are a great choice.

Older Skin

Elderly skin type is skin that is starting to show the signs of aging. Loose skin, rougher texture and wrinkles are the hallmarks of older skin. Most of these effects can be associated with sun exposure over time. Though troublesome for most people to follow on a daily basis, sunscreen is essential when it comes to preventing the appearance of skin aging.

Skin care for older skin should also have a nutrient and vitamin rich moisturizing cleanser one to two times a day. Non-abrasive astringents or skin toners are recommended as is any product that can support the underlying structures of the skin such as alpha hydroxy acids. Water based moisturizers that are easily taken in by the skin and light to medium weight are preferred over heavy products.