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Skin Types




Know your skin type—this is the mantra for effective use of any skin care and beauty product. Broadly, you may classify skin under the following skin types:
  • Oily skin
  • Dry Skin
  • Combination Skin
  • Sensitive Skin
  • Normal Skin

Oily Skin:


Oily in nature, as the name suggests, this type of skin is very prone to dirt accumulation. Regular outbursts of freckles and blemishes are seen with such types of skin. This skin type has over active sebaceous glands which secrete excess of sebum and this leads to its oily nature. You can have natural oily skin. Oily skin can also be caused due to hormonal changes due to pregnancy, using the wrong cosmetic products, and birth control pills. Special care is needed for individuals possessing oily skin. Regular washing with a strong astringent is advised. Medicated soaps may too prove beneficial.


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Dry Skin:


When sebaceous glands secrete a smaller amount of sebum than they are supposed to, the skin becomes dry. Dry skin has a look and is prone to chapping and cracking. Dry skin can result through various causes like vitamin deficiencies, environmental exposure, prolonged medication, under-active sebaceous glands or heredity. If your skin is dry you should wash your face regularly with cold water, and use a moisturizer. A lanolin or oil-based moisturizer nourishes and hydrates dry skin. High alkaline soaps are not advised for use.

Combination Skin:


It is a skin type that is both oily as well as dry in nature. The T-zone, that is the area around the forehead, nose and chin has a oily feel whereas, the area around the eyes, the cheeks and the mouth have a comparatively drier feeling. Combination skin is a very common skin type. For treating such a skin type, moisturizers are applied to the drier parts of the skin whereas the greasy portions are cleansed with a toner and an astringent. You may use a moisturizing gel for the drier areas.

Sensitive Skin:


Such type of skin is very sensitive or over-reactive in nature. This skin type is so delicate that it is adversely affected by environmental factors such as heat and cold. Such skin types can be very allergic to soaps, beauty products, alcohol and minor changes in the atmosphere. Individuals possessing such skin types are advised to use sun screen lotions on a regular basis. A mild cleanser like Cetaphil should be used for washing the face. Avoid makeup products and consult a dermatologist before you use any new skin care or beauty care product.

Normal Skin:


Normal skin is considered to be the ideal skin type. It is neither oily, nor it is dry. Those with normal skin are advised to use sunscreen whenever they go out. They should have a regular cleansing, toning and moisturizing routine. They should use a low alcohol content astringent as a toner, and a mild cleanser.

If you want some great beauty tips, we suggest that you go through the beauty and skin care advice that we have offered at Beauty Tips Hub.