It can be difficult to determine whether you have a normal, dry, oily, combination or sensitive skin type. With all the buzz surrounding different skincare products for specific issues, the list of signs to look for keeps growing. Not to mention your skin is changing seasonally, plus it can also change with age. For example, younger people are more likely than older folks to have a normal skin type.

So what exactly is the difference? Your skin type depends on things such as: How much water is in your skin, which affects its comfort and elasticity. How oily it is, which affects its softness. Finally, how sensitive it is. Today I am going to walk you through some steps to help you determine your skin type.

The Bare-Faced Method

Cleanse your face thoroughly with a mild cleanser and gently pat dry. Leave skin bare (and do not apply any additional moisturizers, serums or treatments). After 30 minutes, examine your cheeks, chin, nose and forehead for any shine. After another 30 minutes, evaluate whether your skin feels parched, especially if you smile or make any other facial expressions. If your skin feels tight, your skin is likely dry. If there is noticeable shine on your nose and forehead, your skin is mostly likely normal/combination. If there is shine on your cheeks in addition to your forehead and nose, you most likely have oily skin.

The Blotting Sheet Method

This method is much faster and often an excellent differentiator between oily and dry skin types. After cleansing your skin, wait an hour, then gently pat a blotting paper on the different areas of your face. Hold the sheet up to the light to determine how much oil is visible. If the sheet picked up little to no oil, you most likely have dry skin. If the blotting sheet reveals oil from the forehead and nose areas, your skin is normal/combination. Finally, if the blotting paper is saturated with oil, it is extremely likely that you have oily skin.

Normal Skin Type

Not too dry and not too oily, normal skin has:

• No or few imperfections
• No severe sensitivity
• Barely visible pores
• A radiant complexion

Combination Skin Type

Your skin can be dry or normal in some areas and oily in others, such as the T-zone (nose, forehead, and chin). Many people have this type. It may need slightly different care in different areas.

Combination skin can have:

• Pores that look larger than normal, because they’re more open
• Blackheads
• Shiny skin

Dry Skin

You may have:

• Almost invisible pores
• Dull, rough complexion
• Red patches
• Your skin is less elastic
• More visible lines

Your skin can crack, peel, or become itchy, irritated, or inflamed. If it’s very dry, it can become rough and scaly, especially on the backs of your hands, arms, and legs.

Dry skin may be caused or made worse by:

• Your genes
• Aging or hormonal changes
• Weather such as wind, sun, or cold
• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from tanning beds
• Indoor heating
• Long, hot baths and showers
• Ingredients in soaps, cosmetics, or cleansers
• Medications

Use these tips to help your dry skin:

1. Take shorter showers and baths, no more than once daily.
2. Use mild, gentle soaps or cleansers. Avoid deodorant soaps.
3. Don’t scrub while bathing or drying.
4. Smooth on a rich moisturizer right after bathing.
5. Use a humidifier, and don’t let indoor temperatures get too hot.
6. Wear gloves when using cleaning agents, solvents, or household detergents.

Oily Skin

You may have:

• Enlarged pores
• Dull or shiny, thick complexion
• Blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes

Oiliness can change depending upon the time of year or the weather. Things that can cause or worsen it include:

• Puberty or other hormonal imbalances
• Stress
• Heat or too much humidity

To take care of oily skin:

• Wash it no more than twice a day and after you sweat a lot.
• Use a gentle cleanser and don’t scrub.
• Don’t pick, pop, or squeeze pimples. They’ll take longer to heal.
• Look for products that won’t clog pores

Sensitive Skin

It can show up as:

• Redness
• Itching
• Burning
• Dryness

If your skin is sensitive, try to find out what your triggers are so you can avoid them. There are many possible reasons, but often it’s in response to particular skin care products.

Skincare Basics For all types

No matter what type of skin you have, these tips will keep it looking its best.

1. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
2. Avoid direct sunlight, and wear a hat and sunglasses.
3. Don’t smoke.
4. Stay hydrated.
5. Wash your skin gently but thoroughly every day and never wear makeup to bed.
6. Moisturize.

I hope this helped!! What is your skin type? Once you have determined your skin type, feel free to use my FREE Skin Care Analysis tool. You can access it by clicking HERE!