Skin Care and Knowing Your SpecialSkin Type

Understanding your skin type is one of the first |steps almost all people take when constructing a skin care routine. However, the majority of people don't realize is that a person's skin type usually doesn't fall into one of the rigid categories that are often used to determine skin type. Before you can make up a skin care plan this is right for you, it is worth it to get past the oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, mature skin categories and realize that everyone has at least some type of combination skin. Combination skin is simply a way to say that parts of all people's skin may have one skin type and some sections will have another.

For example, on your face, you may experience dry skin on your cheek and neck areas and at the same time have oily skin on the forehead, nose and chin, often referred to as the T-zone. For others, this type of situation may exist on the back, arms, chest, etc. When applying skin care products you should be cautious not to simply use ones that treat one specific skin type. A heavy moisturizer on oily skin is not recommended since it can block your pores and promote even more oil (sebum) on the skin.

Below are the four most commonly defined skin types and some basic suggestions for proper skin care for each. This certainly isn't a exhaustivecomprehensive guide but can help you in deciding which type of products should be used to treat each skin type.

Oily Skin Type

This skin type is usually caused by problems related to the sebaceous glands in the skin. These glands produce sebum which is the oily substance that causes greasy, shiny (oily) skin. The most common areas to find this type of skin are in the T-zone on the face, the back and chest. Medium to large pores are also frequently observed with this skin type and this is one of the reason why acne and blemishes are normally mentioned 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 eliminate 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 causing 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 seen with dry skin. Small pores and tightness are commonly discussed with this skin type and fine lines will appear more frequently on dry skin.

Skin care should include a moisture rich cleanser such as those found in milk or cream based solutions. Try to avoid using commercially produced bar soaps and other skin products that may cause the skin to become even more dry. Essential oils are also a wise choice to look for. Skin toners should be used infrequently. The ingredients often contained here can irritate dry skin. Heavy moisturizes are a excellent good way to go after exfoliating the dead cells that appear 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 additional skin types. Elements 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 is needed 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 choice here, especially those with aloe, jojoba and other organic essential oils. With cleansing and toning, the key goal is "non-abrasive". The last thing you want is to directly apply abrasive cloths, scrubs or chemicals. Light to medium weight moisturizers and emollients are a great choice.

Older Skin

Mature skin type is skin that is starting to show the signs of aging. Loose skin, rougher texture and wrinkles are the hallmarks of aging skin. Most of these effects can be directly attributed to sun exposure over time. Though hard for most people to apply on a daily basis, sunscreen is crucial when it comes to preventing the appearance of skin aging.

Skin care for older skin should include a nutrient and vitamin rich moisturizing cleanser one to two times a day. Light 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 absorbed by the skin and light to medium weight are preferred over heavy products.

Published Articles: http://www.rhinoarticles.com/

By: Janice Rossi

Need answers about skin types? Stop by the Skinfare skin care site for answers to tho your questions so that you can make more informed decisions.

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