- There are four common types of skin: normal, combination, oily and dry. Normal skin is the least common skin type. This is the easiest type of skin to maintain as it will not have an excess of either oil or dryness. Combination skin is exactly what the name indicates, a combination of dry and oily skin. Oily skin types produce more oil from the glands than does the average skin type, and dry skin will need added moisture on a regular basis.
- Many people have a general idea of what type of skin they have just based upon the problems they regularly have. Individuals with normal skin will have the least skin problems. Combination skin problems tend to occur in the T-zone. The term "T-Zone" refers to the area of one's face across the forehead and running straight down the nose to the chin, forming the letter "T." Combination skin is typically oily in the T-Zone and dry throughout the cheeks. Oily skin is best recognized by the slight sheen to the face, which is the excess oil produced by the pores. Dry skin is often itchy with a lack of any noticeable oil.
- Those with normal skin will require a very basic daily regimen. They should gently wash with a mild soap and rinse with water. If a moisturizer is preferred, they should stick to an oil-free moisturizer. Combination skin requires the same approach. Wash with a mild soap, rinse with water and use an oil-free moisturizer where necessary. Oily skin may require a little more attention. Choose a cleanser specifically designed for oily skin, then wash and dry face. Toner, an alcohol-based product, may be used as the next step in oily skin if the cleanser has not sufficiently removed excess oil. Finishing with a moisturizer is not necessary for those with oily skin. The last skin type to address are those with dry skin. Definitely use a very mild soap or cleanser. Rinse with water and pat dry. Do not use toner, as this will definitely overdry the skin. Finish with a moisturizer developed for dry skin.
- Many skin care companies choose to sell complete lines of skin-care for each type of skin. Recognize that a complete line is more costly and not always necessary. The first step in skin care basics is the soap or cleanser. This will always be necessary because oil, dirt and make-up need to be removed on a daily basis. The second step in many skin care lines is the toner. Toner is alcohol-based and will dry skin. Only those with truly oily skin should consider this product as necessary. Moisturizers are facial lotions designed to increase moisture to the face. Those with increased oil-production do not necessarily need additional moisture. If it is preferred in your daily skin routine then definitely choose an oil-free moisturizer.
- Skin care cleanser can be bought from private dealers, department stores and discount stores. A hefty price tag does not necessarily mean the product is better. Carefully review the advertising for any products that interest you and find out their main ingredients. Then research these ingredients through the internet or magazines and find out what other companies use these same ingredients in their products. Know what you are looking for in the product before you start to shop and you will save time, money and a big headache!
