How to Identify Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin type is essential for developing an effective skincare routine. Identifying your skin type allows you to choose products and treatments that cater to its specific needs. My approach to the skin is much different than the basic “5 Skin Types”. I truly believe that there are about 13 different skin types as everything that is listed below can be combined - we see it in almost every client that enters into JRAD SKIN. But, to keep it simple for those of you reading and wanting a general understanding, please enjoy below.

HOW TO FIGURE OUT YOUR SKIN TYPE: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE


1. Wash your face: Begin by cleaning your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup. Use lukewarm water and avoid harsh soaps that can strip your skin.

2. Pat dry: Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can irritate your skin.

3. Wait it out: Allow your skin to settle for about 30 mins or so. During this time, avoid applying any products to your face.

4. Observe your skin immediately after: After the 30 minutes has passed, examine your skin in a well-lit area. Look for specific characteristics and take note of any noticeable changes.

5. Observe Your Skin Throughout the Day: Pay attention to how your skin feels and looks in the morning, afternoon, and evening. If your skin tends to be oilier as the day progresses, you may have combination or oily skin. Conversely, if your skin feels dry or tight throughout the day, it is likely you have dry or sensitive skin.

6. Consider Your Pore Size: Take a close look at your pores in the mirror. If you notice large, visible pores mainly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), it typically indicates that you have combination or oily skin. Smaller, less noticeable pores typically suggest normal or dry skin.

7. Pay Attention to Shine: Examine your skin for any noticeable shine. If you find your skin frequently appears shiny or greasy, particularly in the T-zone, it's likely that you have oily skin. However, if you notice a subtle glow without excess oiliness, your skin may be normal or slightly combination.

8. Evaluate Skin Texture: Run your fingers across different areas of your face. If your skin feels smooth and even, it is most likely normal. Dry skin may feel rough, flaky, or have patches of dryness. Oily skin tends to feel thicker, with a slightly rough or bumpy texture.

9. Consider Skin Sensitivities: Note if your skin is easily irritated or reacts to new products or environmental factors. If you frequently experience redness, itching, or a stinging sensation, it suggests you have sensitive skin. Dry skin is also more prone to sensitivity and may feel tight or become easily irritated.

10. Seek Professional Advice: If you're still unsure about your skin type, consider visiting us!

THE 5 SKIN TYPES

1. Normal Skin:

  • Balanced moisture: Neither too dry nor too oily.

  • Even complexion: Few imperfections, with a smooth texture.

  • Minimal sensitivity: Tolerates most skincare products well.

2. Dry Skin:

  • Tightness and flakiness: Skin often feels tight and itchy, with visible flakes.

  • Dull complexion: Lacks radiance and may have red patches.

  • Pronounced fine lines: Shows premature signs of aging due to reduced moisture.

3. Oily Skin:

  • Shine and greasiness: Skin appears shiny, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

  • Enlarged pores: Pores are more noticeable and prone to congestion.

  • Prone to acne: Increased likelihood of developing breakouts and blackheads.

4. Combination Skin:

  • Combination of oily and dry: Oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) with dry or normal cheeks.

  • Larger pores in the T-zone: Pores appear more significant in the oily areas.

  • Occasional breakouts: Tendency to experience both acne and dry patches.

5. Sensitive Skin:

  • Easily irritated: Reacts quickly to new products, causes redness, itching, or burning.

  • Fragile complexion: Prone to dryness and tends to redden easily.

  • Allergic reactions: More susceptible to allergies and intolerance to certain ingredients.

Be good to your skin. You’ll wear it every day for the rest of your life.” 

Renee Rouleau