What are the different skin types?

What are the different skin types?

Published on July 27, 2023, by Astrid

Reading time: 4 minutes

Knowing your skin type means making sure you give it the care that suits it. It also allows it to play its role as a barrier against external aggression. Normal, combination, dry or oily skin, can you identify which type your skin belongs to?

SUMMARY

What is a skin type?

Skin type is determined by our genetic patrimony and by the evolution of the water and lipid balance of our hydrolipidic film (the protective surface barrier). For example, skin color, mainly determined by each individual's genetic heritage, influences skin type. Black and mixed skin has certain distinctive characteristics due to melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Melanin provides natural protection against UV rays. Combined with a thicker skin barrier, it ensures reduced moisture loss. The hydration needs of black and mixed skin will therefore not be the same as those of fair skin.

Skin type is not set in stone. With age, there is a decrease in sebum production, which can lead to an alteration of the hydrolipidic film. The proteins in the dermis (collagen, hyaluronic acid, elastin) are damaged. As a result, skin tends to become drier, less supple and may lose its natural glow.

Do not confuse skin type and skin condition. The condition of our skin can vary depending on various internal and external factors to which it is exposed. Seasons, environment, diet, stress, hormonal fluctuations are all factors of change. The use of certain cosmetics or medical treatments can also affect the condition of our skin. Learn more about skin conditions.

Determine your skin type

To define your skin type, listen to your feelings. Does your skin feel tight or shiny, all over your face or in certain areas? Is it rough, smooth, soft, or oily to the touch? Are your pores enlarged or tight? Do you have redness? Do you have pimples or blackheads?

Normal skin
Normal skin has a smooth, soft, supple texture with regular skin texture and almost invisible pores. With few imperfections, the complexion is uniform. No discomfort or tightness. A skin is said to be normal when it is neither dry nor greasy. It is naturally comfortable, balanced: well hydrated and well nourished. The skin everyone dreams of! Our advice for maintaining an adequate level of hydration: integrate gentle and non-aggressive products into your routine. Choose treatments containing glycerin, hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica.

Dry skin
Dry skin feels rough to the touch, tight and sometimes dull. It feels tight, flaky, and gives the feeling of permanent discomfort. Pores are tightened (invisible) and the skin is prone to fine lines and irritation.
Dry skin produces less sebum than normal skin. It therefore does not have enough fatty substances to retain water and play its role as a barrier against external aggression. Our advice for regaining daily comfort: choose a routine based on very gentle and nourishing products. Opt for one moisturizing cream enriched with natural oils like La Crème by Beau Domaine .

Oily skin
Oily skin tends to shine all over the face. It is rather thick and has enlarged (visible) pores, with certain imperfections (pimples, blackheads, acne, etc.). The skin texture is irregular, and the complexion may be dull.
Unlike dry skin, oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, which makes it shiny. Positive point: it is naturally more hydrated and protected against external aggressions. Our advice for finding hydrated and cleansed skin? Avoid products that are too aggressive. Instead, focus on gentle treatments that will eliminate excess sebum without drying the skin.

Combination skin
Combination skin tends to shine in the middle area, also called the T zone: forehead, nose, chin. We find characteristics similar to those of oily skin only in this area. The rest of the face (the temples, the cheek area, and the oval of the face) oscillates between normal skin and dry skin. It can sometimes be tight on the side parts and its appearance is uniform.
Combination skin is a particular type of skin that is quite unstable. It is also the most widespread. This skin type needs balance and hydration. Our advices ? We focus on gentle and balancing products, and on a moisturizer suitable for combination skin like La Crème Fluide by Beau Domaine .

Have you determined your skin type? Do not hesitate now to consult our article to take care of it or to choose the routine that suits you !