Skin Types

Latte, cappuccino, espresso, flat white… Oh wait, I’m listing out my different coffee orders. Just like coffee, our skin also comes in various types too! 

Our skin is all unique. Cosmetically speaking, skin is classified according to factors related to its balance: sebaceous secretion, hydration and sensitivity levels. Subsequently, there are five main types of skin and this article is going to tell you about it!

1. Normal

‘Normal’, quite a condescending word isn’t it… In this case, it is a term which refers to well-balanced skin. In less condescending means, it’s scientific term is ‘eudermic’. So, what characteristics does normal skin possess? Well, it’s free from skin blemishes; pores are fine, barely visible; skin tone is even, clear and smooth; complexion is radiant; skin is not too dry or too oily; and has good blood circulation. Overall, there is a healthy balance of sebum and moisture in the skin.

2. Dry 

Now, I think some people reading this can agree that this one is rather irritating… Your skin can crack, peel, become itchy, irritated (funny that) as well as inflamed. Dry skin is often attributed to your genes, aging or hormonal changes. Environmental factors also come into play such as wind, sun, or cold, or even things indoors such as UV radiation, indoor heating, long baths and showers. Other irritants can be from certain medications or ingredients found in everyday items like soaps, cosmetics or cleansers.

3. Oily

Some consider this skin type to be quite the slippery slope… and yes, the pun was intended. If you have oily skin, you may have a dull or shiny complexion; enlarged pores; blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes. Oily skin occurs when the sebaceous glands in the skin make too much sebum or commonly known as ‘excessive fat production’. For those of you that don’t know, sebum is the waxy, oily substance which protects and hydrates the skin. Don’t fret though, oily skin can be managed with a regular skin care regime!

4. Combination

This is probably the most common skin type - I mean, it’s in the name after all. Combination skin is quite simply a mixture of both oily and dry skin occurring simultaneously. Your skin may appear as dry or normal in some areas, and in other areas oily - typically in the T-zone section (nose, forehead, and chin). You may also have larger pores, blackheads, and shiny skin.

5. Sensitive

Just like the way our heart feels after a breakup, our skin can feel like it too. Sensitive skin is the type which is prone to inflammation. If you have sensitive skin, you may possess acne, rosacea or contact dermatitis. Nonetheless, sensitive skin appears as redness, itching, burning, and dryness. It is important to find the root cause or trigger of your sensitive skin in order to avoid flare ups!

We at Ritology want to express the importance of choosing skin care products tailored to suit your skin type! Having this knowledge will ensure a fantastic skin care routine, as well as the longevity of healthy looking skin. If you are unsure of where to start, reach out to your dermatologist to get ahead of the game. Stay up to date with our social @RitologyDaily for more insightful knowledge into the skincare world!