Skin Care And Skin Types

Being familiar with your skin type is one of the first |steps many people take when determining a skin care program. However, many people don't understand is that a person's skin type often doesn't fall into any one catgory that are often used to outline skin type. Before you can make up a skin care plan this is perfect for you, it is worth it to get past the oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, mature skin classifications and realize that everyone has some form of combination skin. Combination skin is simply a way to say that parts of all people's skin may have one skin type and some parts will have a different one.

Take for instance, on your face, you might have dry skin on your cheek and neck areas and at the same time have oily skin on the forehead, nose and chin, often referred to as the T-zone. For others, this type of situation may exist on the back, arms, chest, etc. When using skin care products you should be careful not to simply use ones that treat one kind of skin type. A heavy moisturizer on oily skin is not a good idea since it can block your pores and promote even more oil (sebum) on the skin.

Below are the four most commonly defined skin types and some basic suggestions for effective 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 Type

This skin type is known to be 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 areas most associated with this type of skin are in the T-zone on the face, the back and chest. Medium to large pores are also frequently observed with this skin type and this is one of the 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 remove 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 needs to remain balanced and soft. Scaly, flaky texture that is rough to the touch is most often associated with dry skin. Small pores and tightness are commonly related with this skin type and fine lines will appear more quickly on dry skin.

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

Skin Sensitivity

When the skin is sensitive, it reacts quicker to irritants than the additional skin types. Chemicals in skin care products and environmental conditions often leave the skin raw and red. The goal 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 marked 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 option here, especially those with aloe, jojoba and other organic essential oils. With cleansing and toning, the key word is "non-abrasive". The last thing you want is to directly apply irritating cloths, scrubs or chemicals. Light to medium weight moisturizers and emollients are a great choice.

Elderly Skin

Aging skin type is skin that is starting to show the effects of aging. Loose skin, rougher texture and wrinkles are the hallmarks of skin aging. Almost all of these effects can be associated with sun exposure over time. Though hard for most people to use on a daily basis, sunscreen is your best friend when it comes to dodging the appearance of skin aging.

Skin care for mature skin should also have 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 absorbed by the skin and light to medium weight are preferred over heavy products.