Clara Jackson A skincare regimen can be intimidating. Why? Because there are so many products on the market to choose from, and if your skin is combination or oily, you may feel lost when it comes to what products will give you the best results. Though everyone has different skin types, there are general skin types, including oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Once you understand what skin type you fall into, you can narrow down the best skincare products for your particular skin type. We have a few tips to help you find the perfect skincare routine for your skin.
Know Your Skin Type
Everyone’s skin is different, and while broad categories exist, skin types can change depending on the season, skincare routine, and genes. Your skin is the largest organ in your body and tells the story of who you are. When choosing skincare products, knowing what skin type you have will help you figure out which products will work best for you.
And one of the best ways to figure out where to start is by figuring out what type of skin you have. It’s easy to identify your skin type; just follow these three steps:
- Take a minute to look in the mirror: Using a magnifying mirror, look at the area just beneath your chin. The skin there is the most sensitive, and you might be able to see flakes of dry skin.
- Wet your fingers: Then, wet your fingers and gently press on those flakes. If your skin flakes, you have dry skin.
- Look at your skin: Finally, look at your skin. Is it rough or flaky? Or is it normal and smooth?
For Oily Skin
When you have oily skin, you need to keep your skin as clean and hydrated as possible. So, what are the best skincare products for oily skin? Start with your cleanser. Look for a cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid helps clear your pores by dissolving the dirt and oils that might be clogging them. Benzoyl peroxide, meanwhile, works overtime to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, which helps prevent future breakouts. Next, use a toner. Look for a toner with glycolic acid, which helps exfoliate your skin by helping remove dead cells. Lastly, use a moisturizer. Look for one with retinol, which can help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
For Dry Skin
For dry skin, there are a few golden rules to keep in mind:
- Start with a gentle cleanser. Look for formulas that are soap-free and fragrance-free, as well as oil-free. If you have sensitive skin, avoid alcohol, fragrances, and dyes.
- Up the hydration. Look for a moisturizer that’s lightweight and oil-free, and doesn’t apply moisturizer directly after cleansing since that can make the skin more sensitive.
- Follow up with a protective treatment. A light serum is a good idea, but steer clear of thicker lotions and ointments, which may be too heavy for dry skin.
- Gently exfoliate. Look for exfoliants that are non-irritating and contain mild exfoliating ingredients like microbeads.
For Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin is prone to dryness, redness, itchiness, and even breakouts, and when it comes to skincare, products can sometimes make matters worse. But there are a few things you can do to keep your skin calm and healthy.
- Limit the amount of product you put on. When your skin is dry or sensitive, it’s more prone to irritation.
- Use gentle cleansers and can find great options at co-ops. Third, avoid products with fragrances, which can irritate your skin.
- Focus on products with antioxidants, which help protect your complexion from environmental damage.
