Skin types (back)
Knowing what type of skin you have is your first step on the route to flawless skin. Your skin care routine should be perfectly in tune with your skin type. But remember, your skin is a living organ. Its condition will change under the influence of many factors. Regularly reassess your skin type, and change your skin care routine to match it.

Factors influencing your skin type

Age

Skin type usually changes with age. Younger people tend to have oily or combination skin. As we get older our sebaceous glands produce less sebum, resulting in drier skin.

Season

Skin is more prone to dryness during the winter months and improves during the summer.

Climate

Exposure to extremely dry climates with low relative humidity can increase skin sensitivity and dryness. Dry or sensitive skin tends to improve in climates with higher relative humidity.

Environment

Exposure to cold temperatures and strong winds can dry the skin. Sun exposure can dry out oily skin, although excessive sun exposure over time will increase oiliness. This statement does not match the statement on page 5 concerning the sun.

Hormone

Variation Many skin problems can be triggered or worsened by hormone variations. Stress can trigger hormonal activity, which can result in increased sebaceous gland activity. Hormonal changes which take place during puberty and pregnancy can also stimulate increased sebum production.

Skin Care

Improper skin care can exaggerate any skin condition or skin type. Excessive exfoliation or application of heavy, rich moisturizers on oily skin will stimulate oil production. Bathing or showering in excessively hot water or failure to use a good moisturizer will leave skin dry. Using skin care products that contain harsh or irritating ingredients will increase skin sensitivity. Every skin type benefits from proper skin care. Maintaining a good skin care routine will help skin achieve a balance - not too oily, not too dry.

Skin Type

Features

Normal Skin

• No particular problems
• Normal levels of sebum
• Usually clear from blemishes and clogged pores
• Smooth and radiant
• Good absorption of skin care products

Dry Skin

• Reduced levels of sebum
• Looks dull, flaky
• Feels tight
• Rough surface
• Turns dry very fast after application of skin care products
• Small pores
• Lines and wrinkles are accentuated

Oily Skin

• Increase levels of sebum, leading to shiny face
• Large pores, often clogged so prone to pimples
• Signs of aging, such as wrinkles and lines, are less apparent
• Feels oily 15 minutes after washing your face

Combination Skin

• Varying levels of sebum
• Oily around the T-zone (forehead, nose)
• Dry cheeks
• Large pores on forehead and nose
• Occasional blemishes and blocked pores