HOW TO IDENTIFY YOUR SKIN TYPE (AND WHY IT MATTERS)

Claira Comer

Why Knowing Your Skin Type Is So Important

One of the biggest mistakes people make with skincare is using products that aren’t designed for their skin type.

The wrong products can lead to:

  • Irritation
  • Breakouts
  • Excess dryness
  • Increased oil production
  • Skin barrier damage

Understanding your skin type helps you choose products that support your skin instead of working against it.

Here’s how to identify the most common skin types:

Dry Skin

Dry skin lacks oil and often struggles to maintain moisture properly.

Common Signs of Dry Skin:

  • Tightness after cleansing
  • Flaky or rough texture
  • Dull appearance
  • More visible fine lines
  • Skin that feels uncomfortable or irritated easily

What Dry Skin Needs:

Dry skin benefits from:
✔️ Gentle cleansers
✔️ Hydrating serums
✔️ Rich moisturizers
✔️ Barrier-supporting ingredients

Avoid harsh exfoliants or over-cleansing, which can make dryness worse.

Oily Skin

Oily skin produces excess sebum (oil), which can sometimes lead to congestion and breakouts.

Common Signs of Oily Skin:

  • Shine throughout the day
  • Enlarged pores
  • Frequent breakouts or blackheads
  • Makeup sliding off quickly
  • Greasy feeling, especially in the T-zone

What Oily Skin Needs:

Oily skin still needs hydration — stripping the skin can actually increase oil production.

Focus on:
✔️ Lightweight hydration
✔️ Gentle exfoliation
✔️ Balancing ingredients
✔️ Non-comedogenic products

Combination Skin

Combination skin includes both oily and dry areas.

Usually:

  • The T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) is oily
  • The cheeks may feel normal or dry

Common Signs of Combination Skin:

  • Oily shine in some areas
  • Dry patches in others
  • Seasonal changes affecting different parts of the face differently

What Combination Skin Needs:

Combination skin often benefits from:
✔️ Balanced hydration
✔️ Gentle cleansers
✔️ Lightweight moisturizers
✔️ Targeted treatments depending on the area

Can Your Skin Type Change?

Yes — your skin can change over time due to:

  • Hormones
  • Climate
  • Stress
  • Age
  • Lifestyle
  • Skincare products

That’s why routines should evolve with your skin’s needs.

When your products are tailored to your skin’s needs, your routine becomes more effective, your barrier stays healthier, and your skin can truly thrive.

Not sure what your skin type is or where to start?

A professional consultation can help you build a routine designed specifically for your skin goals. Book ours today! ✨