There are 4 different types of skin depending on the feel and texture – normal, dry, oily and combination. The condition of our skin is determined by factors such as age, hormones, genetics and external factors such as weather, environment including pollution.

 

Normal or eudermicskin refers to well balanced skin, which is well textured with soft appearance, no visible pores and few imperfections. This is due to good circulation. People with normal skin do not require any specific skincare or treatments.

Dry skin, as the same suggests, lacks moisturedue to reduced sebum production which in turn leads to less lipid that is required to retain moisture to protect our skin against external factors. Dry skin is typically a result of increasing age but can also be attributed to other factors such as weather, hot water and low air humidity. As a result, dry skin can feel tight and rough, look dull and have a rough complexion, sometimes with red patches. People with dry skin require specialised skincare to help build the shield against external factors and to lock in moisture.

Oilyskin is the opposite of dry skin, where there is excessive sebum production, known as seborrhoea. Oily skin will therefore have a glossy shine with visible pores. Excess sebum can also lead to comedomes and result in acne. This is typically a result of heat, puberty, hormonal changes, genetics, stress and comedogenic cosmetics. People with oily skin require skincare that helps to mop up the excess sebum produced.

Combinationskin is a mixture of skin types, for example dry or normal in some areas (like cheeks) and oily in other areas, typically in the T zone (forehead, nose and chin). These people may require different skincare for these different areas on the face.

Sensitive skin is skin that is easily irritated. This happens when the skin’s barrier function is compromised leading to water loss and penetration of irritants. One can have oily and sensitive skin or dry and sensitive skin. People with sensitive skin require skincare that has natural ingredients with no colours, chemicals or fragrances.