Skin Care and Addressing Your UniqueSkin Type

Understanding your skin type is one of the first |steps most people take when constructing a skin care routine. However, what most people don't consider is that a person's skin type usually doesn't fall into the common guidelines that are often used to determine skin type. Before you can build a skin care plan this is perfect for you, it is a good idea to get past the oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, mature skin categories and realize that everyone has at least some type of combination skin. Combination skin is simply one way of saying that parts of each person's skin may have one skin type and some areas will have another.

For example, on your face, you may experience dry skin on your cheek and neck areas and also be dealing with oily skin on the forehead, nose and chin, which is called the T-zone. For others, this condition may exist on the back, arms, chest, etc. When choosing skin care products you should be cautious not to select those that treat one unique skin type. A heavy moisturizer on oily skin is not recommended since it can block your pores and produce even more oil (sebum) to be produced by the skin.

Below are the four basic skin types and some basic guidelines for effective skin care for each. This certainly isn't a completecomprehensive guide but can help you in determining which type of products should be used to treat each type of skin.

Oily Skin

This skin type is almost always caused by problems related to the sebaceous glands in the skin. These glands produce 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 often seen with this skin type and this is a main reason why acne and blemishes are normally mentioned with oily skin (although it is clogged pores that are usually the main problem).

Skin care for oily skin should include cleansing with water, gel, milk or clay based cleansers. These eliminate 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.

Those with 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 associated with this skin type and fine lines will appear more frequently on dry skin.

Skin care should likely 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 condition the skin to become even more dry. Essential oils are also a beneficial ingredient to look for. Skin toners should be used lightly. The ingredients found in these 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 lead to acne breakouts.

Skin Sensitivity

When the skin is sensitive, it reacts faster to irritants than the several other skin types. Compounds 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 is needed 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 option 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 abrasive cloths, scrubs or chemicals. Light to medium weight moisturizers and emollients are a great choice.

Aging Skin

Aging skin type is skin that is has begun to show the hallmarks of aging. Loose skin, rougher texture and wrinkles are the hallmarks of skin aging. Most of these effects can be associated with sun exposure over time. Though difficult 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 also have a nutrient and vitamin rich moisturizing cleanser one to two times a day. Gentle astringents or skin toners are preferred as is any product that can support 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.

Need answers regarding skin type? Stop by the Skinfare skincare site for answers to tho your questions so that you can make more informed decisions.