The Many Skin Types And How To Treat Each

By Author: Jenny Curran
Total Articles: 12
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Understanding your skin type is one of the first |steps almost all people take when putting together a skin care program. However, the majority of people don't understand is that a person's skin type often doesn't fall into any one catgory that are often used to define skin type. Before you can draw up a skin care plan this is beneficial for you, it is wise to get past the oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, mature skin classifications and realize that everyone has at least some type of combination skin. Combination skin is simply one way of saying that parts of all people's skin may have one skin type and some areas will have another.

To give you an example, on your face, you may experience dry skin on your cheek and neck areas and at the same time have oily skin on the forehead, nose and chin, also known as the T-zone. For others, this type of condition may exist on the back, arms, chest, etc. When choosing skin care products you should be cautious not to just use the ones that treat one unique skin type. A heavy moisturizer on oily skin is not something you want to use since it can block your pores and produce even ...
... more oil (sebum) to be produced by the skin.

Below are the four major skin types and some basic reference for good skin care for each. In no way is this a exhaustivecomprehensive guide but can help you in determining which type of products can be combined to treat each skin type.

Oily Skin

This skin type is almost always caused by problems related to the sebaceous glands in the skin. These glands generate sebum which is the oily substance that causes greasy, shiny (oily) skin. The most common areas to find this type of skin are in the T-zone on the face, the back and chest. Medium to large pores are also common with this skin type and this is a main reason why acne and blemishes are often connected with oily skin (although it is clogged pores that are usually the culprit).

Skin care for oily skin should include cleansing with water, gel, milk or clay based cleansers. These take away oil without stripping away the moisture in the skin. Herbal astringents are also good to deep clean - avoid alcohol based skin toners. Lightweight moisturizer (aloe based) is a must to avoid causing more oil production.

Dry Skin

Dry skin lacks the natural oil and moisture production that the skin relies on to remain balanced and soft. Scaly, flaky texture that is rough to the touch is most often seen with dry skin. Small pores and tightness are commonly discussed with this skin type and fine lines will appear more easily on dry skin.

Skin care probably should include a moisture rich cleanser such as those found in milk or cream based sin care products. Try to avoid using commercially produced bar soaps and other skin products that may cause the skin to become even more dry. Essential oils are also a wise choice to look for. Skin toners should be used infrequently. The ingredients often contained here can irritate dry skin. Heavy moisturizes are a smart good way to go after exfoliating the dead cells that show up more frequently with dry skin. These cells can clog pores and cause acne breakouts.

Skin Sensitivity

When the skin is sensitive, it reacts faster to irritants than the several other skin types. Elements in skin care products and environmental conditions often leave the skin raw and red. The desired result in treating sensitive skin is provide the nutrients and moisture that that is essential without introducing compounds that cause inflammation and irritation. Sensitive skin also often is accompanied by a dry skin condition.

Skin care for sensitive skin is best when free of all fragrances and color additives. Natural or organic treatments are a good way to go here, especially those with aloe, jojoba and other organic essential oils. With cleansing and toning, the key word is "non-abrasive". What you want to avoid is to directly apply harsh cloths, scrubs or chemicals. Light to medium weight moisturizers and emollients are a great product to use.

Aging Skin

Mature skin type is skin that is starting to show the signs of aging. Loose skin, rougher texture and wrinkles are the hallmarks of skin aging. Most of these effects can be directly attributed to sun exposure over time. Though troublesome for most people to use on a daily basis, sunscreen is essential when it comes to avoiding the appearance of skin aging.

Skin care for aging skin should include a nutrient and vitamin rich moisturizing cleanser one to two times a day. Light astringents or skin toners are preferable as is any product that can care for the underlying structures of the skin such as alpha hydroxy acids. Water based moisturizers that are easily taken in by the skin and light to medium weight are preferred over heavy products.