by Karol Young Moses

Created on: October 26, 2008   Last Updated: August 03, 2009

What's My Skin Type?

Did you know that the first step to creating a flawless makeup look is healthy skin? The road to glowing skin begins with a daily skin care routine, but you must first determine your skin type. First let's dispel one myth. Skin type has nothing to do with skin color or ethnicity. Many factors can affect your skin type, including hormonal changes, diet, medication, lifestyle and improper skin care. Although heredity and genetics can affect how your skin ages, it doesn't necessarily determine your skin type.

When you purchase your skin care products, whether you shop at the department store or the drug store, be sure to search out products designed for your type of skin. There are 3 basic skin types: Dry, normal/combination, and oily.

Dry skin is skin that is virtually shine-free all the time. Does your face feel tight or taut after you wash it? Does it sometimes flake or peel? Does it almost always appear dull and free of shine? If so you are in the dry skin category.

Normal or combination skin is just what it sounds like. It is skin that is part oily and part dry. Most skin tends to be oilier down the center of the face (forehead, nose, and chin) known as the "t-zone", and drier on the cheeks. Does your face tend to shine about mid-day on any part of the t-zone? Does it feel comfortable after you wash it in the morning before moisturizing? If so then you probably have normal/combination skin.

Oily skin is mostly shiny all over, both in the t-zone and on all or part of the cheeks. Does you face seem to shine all the time? Are you constantly re-applying your powder? If so you have oily skin.

Now that you know your skin type the hard part is over. The next step is to figure out your specific skincare needs and address them. Because your skin is as unique as you are, it can exhibit unique characteristics. For example, you may be prone to breakouts. Or you might be concerned about fine lines or wrinkles. Or your skin may be sensitive. These issues can affect any skin type. It's important to use products that will focus on these problems to help alleviate them rather than make them worse. There's an abundance of products available to chose from. Be sure and read the labels to help determine what will work best for you. Following your routine daily will help you put your best face forward!

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