element5
 

Grooming Clinic: Part 2: Know Your Skin Type

 

Identifying Your Skin Type
If you are not sure about your skin type, the table below will help you identify your skin type. Skin type classification can sometimes fall in more than one category or transition from one type to another depending on circumstances, environment and diet, therefore the following table is a guide only.
 

Normal Skin

Dry Skin

Oily Skin

Combination Skin

Sensitive Skin

Description

·         Problem-free and healthy looking with no spots or blemishes

·         Even toned and textured

·         Well balanced, neither oily nor dry

Description

·         Skin feels tight and uncomfortable, especially after washing or shaving

·         In severe cases, skin can become cracked, flaky and itchy

·         Rough to the touch with no noticeable moisture

Description

·         Shiny and greasy appearance

·         Large clogged pores and excessive oil over most of the face

·         Prone to blackheads, pimples and blemishes

Description

·         Skin can be dry and oily at the same time, in different areas

·         Oily areas are typically on the forehead, nose and chin (T-zone)

·         Dry areas are usually the cheeks

Description

·         Easily irritated or inflamed by using normal skincare and shaving products

·         Prone to redness, blotchiness and rash

·         Reacts sensitively to environmental and internal conditions such as UV radiation, chemicals, stress, heat and cold

Tips for normal skin: Maintenance and Preventive care

·         Daily wash with good quality cleanser (morning & night)

·         Facial scrub once or twice a week

·         Use of light-weight moisturiser daily

·         A good toner after cleansing for added freshness

·         A night cream to keep skin hydrated throughout the night

Tips for dry skin: Stimulate Production of Sebum (protective natural oil) and Hydrate Skin

·         Use of gentle and non-stripping cleanser twice daily

·         Rich and nutritive moisturiser up to twice a day

·         Moderate and gentle exfoliation (once a week) to make skin smooth again

·         Use of sun cream when outdoors for added protection 

·         Use of a hydrating mask twice a week will improve skin condition

·         A mild toner after cleansing, which serves to hydrate, revitalise, soothe and balance the pH of the skin

·         A night cream will hydrate and repair the skin while you sleep

Tips for oily skin: Reducing Excessive Sebum (oil)

·         Use of good quality facial cleanser twice a day

·         Exfoliate with facial scrub two to three times a week is essential

·         Use of face mask once a week which helps absorb excess oil and keep pores clean

·         Moisturise once a day with an oil-free moisturiser to protect skin

·         Use of a good quality toner for deep cleansing

Tips for combination skin: A Balanced Treatment for a Balanced Skin

·         Best to use different products on different areas of your face depending on the problem

·         Deep cleansing and regular exfoliation of the oily parts are recommended to prevent blackheads and blemishes and to balance sebum production

·         Gentle treatment and moisturising on the drier parts of the skin

Tips for dry skin: Gentle Treatment for Soothing/Smoothing Effect and Maximum Protection

·         Gentle cleanser with no fragrance or essential oils, twice daily

·         Minimal exfoliation required using a smooth cream exfoliator for gentle polishing

·         Mild moisturiser daily for added comfort and protection

Words of wisdom

·         You’re a lucky man so keep it clean!

Words of wisdom

·         Drink plenty of water (around 1.5L daily) and provide extra care to thirsty skin

Words of wisdom

·         Avoid over drying the skin and stripping all of the natural oils – it will not stop oily skin and will cause the skin to produce more sebum

·         Avoid soap

Words of wisdom

·         Make sure not to over-exfoliate or over-strip as this can cause the production of more sebum

Words of wisdom

·         No harsh chemicals and perfume – only use products suitable for sensitive skin

·         Avoid soap as it dries the skin

·         Always test new products on a small area of your arm before using on your face