Getting to Know Your Skin Type

What is Your Skin Type?

Our skin type can change over time and even with the seasons. As we age, it typically gets drier. These changes aren’t always noticeable. But not providing our skin with balanced hydration can age it prematurely. So with that in mind, it is good to take some time to evaluate your skin and treat it accordingly. So what are the primary skin types and how are they identified?

Oily Skin

This is the type so many of us experienced at a young age. Many associate it with acne and adolescent breakouts, but oily skin does not automatically mean pimples. Skin can be breakout free, yet still oily. Often pores are more visible, and at the end of the day it will have a sheen or a somewhat greasy feel if untouched through the day. This is uncommon in women in their 40’s or older, but not unheard of. Some women mistakenly believe this is their skin type still as they age, yet have not recognized the changes. More on that in a future post. The good news for those with this skin type is it often is the last type to show signs of aging.

Normal Skin

This is the type we all are working toward. The skin we are born with is usually normal. Think of the skin of your youth. It is typically soft and smooth, with no obvious pores and an even tone. Some lucky ones are genetically inclined to normal skin that requires little effort to maintain. At the end of the day it feels neither greasy nor dehydrated. Even then, it benefits from a good skincare routine.

Dry Skin

Most women end up with this type as we age. Extremely dry skin is easy to detect. It soaks up lotions and creams and doesn’t ever seem hydrated enough. Most of us fall somewhat in between normal and extremely dry. We might experience patches of both, redness in areas, or perhaps just a lack of smoothness. At the end of the day, it can feel tight, look dull or flaky or generally feel less supple. Fortunately skincare products have come a long way over the years and there are some amazing products on the market that can help us find that happy medium. (Want some product advice? Email us!)

Loss of Collagen

In addition to the 3 basic skin types listed above, loss of collagen deserves mentioning as well. As we age collagen production declines. This changes the skin in additional ways. Loss of collagen can contribute to the development of wrinkles, sagging and less firmness. Collagen gives skin its plump, supple appearance. To affect collagen production requires deeper penetration than most skincare creams can provide. As with hydration, diet can also affect collagen production. Supplements can be a helpful aid. This is also where skincare tools such as our Nanoskin hand-held facial device can provide some wonderful benefits. It can reach deep within the skin to stimulate collagen production and plump up those sagging skin cells.

No matter what your skin type, we can all take steps to improve or maintain our skin to keep it healthy, hydrated and beautiful! Do you have a specific skincare concern you would like to discuss? Reply in the comments below!