Crash Course On The 5 Different Skin Types

crash course on the five different skin types

We all know skin can be pretty pesky. Maybe this only happens to me, but it seems like at one moment my skin is behaving and at another moment (generally at big events with lots of pictures being taken) it blows up out of nowhere. How can we deal with such crazy crises like these?

The best ammo we have in our artillery is being prepared by knowing how our skin behaves and how to treat it—both of which stem from knowing our skin type. So here’s the down low on the 5 different skin types to help you navigate your quest for good skin and good skin care:

1. Normal
The first skin type can be classified as “normal”, but in reality it’s more like “perfect”. This type of skin appears as smooth and radiant with few (if any) blemishes or enlarged pores. It’s the perfect balance: not too oily and not too dry—probably the skin Goldilocks had. With such wonderful skin, someone with this type could use an assortment of products without having a negative reaction. That being said, simple face wash is probably the best (and cheapest) way to go!

2. Dry
This skin type is associated with rough complexions, some red patches, and peeling and irritated areas. It can be made worse by a number of factors including: harsh weather conditions, long hot showers, and potent medications. The key to this skin type is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.

3. Oily
Oily skin appears just as it sounds, with shiny, thick, and oily complexions. This skin type is prone to acne and blemishes because the pores are typically clogged with unhealthy oils. It’s generally worsened by stress and exposure to heat and humidity. The best solution is to keep those pores clean by gently blotting off excess oil throughout the day and washing your face about twice a day. Over-washing your face could cause your skin to overcompensate and produce even more oil, though, so be cautious with how intensely you’re cleansing!

4. Combination
This type is probably the hardest to manage because it’s literally a combination of both dry and oily skin types. In some areas the skin may be peely and irritated but in other areas it may be moist and shiny. It’s typical for the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) to be oily while the cheeks and areas around the eyes tend to be more dry. Changing climates generally make this skin type worse. The best way to treat combination skin is to treat each area according to its specific type.

5. Sensitive
This skin type is probably the most painful type as it is associated with reactions like itching, burning, and redness. It’s also difficult to treat because most products tend to burn and irritate the skin even more. If your skin falls into this category, be sure to use products that are specifically made for sensitive skin and consider using less harsh methods like some home remedies.

Hopefully this Skin Type 101 helps you understand your skin and its characteristics better so you can investigate dermatological conditions and skin care more effectively. Always be sure to double check with your dermatologist when developing a plan of action specifically tailored to your needs! And feel free to check out more about skin care and scar healing techniques and get your dermatological questions answered by visiting our Scar & Dermatology Resources for Patients.



Written by: Jordan Rawlinson