Find your skin type

Written together with skincare therapist Rebecca

To get the most out of your skincare routine, it’s essential to use products that are right for your skin. Different products contain different ingredients and properties designed for specific skin types. Find out which skin type you have and how to care for it properly.

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Summary

  • Understanding your skin type is the foundation for choosing the right skincare products and routines that truly work for you.

  • Skin types such as normal, oily, dry, combination and sensitive all have different needs — both in daily cleansing and treatment.

  • By observing how your skin reacts in different areas and situations, you can easily identify your skin type and adapt your routine accordingly.

Normal skin

Characteristics: Normal skin is characterised by a soft, smooth and balanced surface that neither feels tight nor looks shiny. The pores are neither enlarged nor minimised, and sebum production is well balanced.

Skincare: Maintain moisture levels by using hydrating skincare products. Products containing SPF are a great choice to provide optimal protection.

Keep in mind! As we age, the skin’s natural moisture production decreases, meaning you may eventually need to add extra hydration.

Oily skin

Characteristics: Oily skin is characterised by overproduction in the sebaceous glands, which can lead to enlarged pores, pimples and other impurities. The skin often appears shiny and may look greasy.

Skincare: Many people with oily skin think moisturising isn’t necessary after cleansing, but this can actually increase sebum production. Always moisturise after cleansing using lightweight products that still deliver effective hydration.

Keep in mind! Excess sebum can easily lead to clogged pores, blackheads, pimples and acne. Deep cleansing is important, but avoid overly harsh products. Choose mild cleansers and complement with exfoliation. Finish with a toner that has pore-tightening properties.

Dry skin

Characteristics: Dry skin often feels tight and may flake, especially after showering or cleansing. If the skin is very dry, itching may also occur. The skin lacks both oil and moisture. Occasional pimples can appear, but usually not in large numbers. Some people with dry skin may also develop eczema.

Skincare: Moisture, moisture, moisture! Dry skin needs deeply hydrating products. As dry skin is often sensitive, choose products carefully. Richer formulas, such as facial oils, can be especially beneficial.

Keep in mind! While water may feel hydrating, it actually has a drying effect when applied externally. Avoid rinsing your face unnecessarily and always use a cleanser formulated for dry skin.

Combination skin

Characteristics: Combination skin is a mix of oily and dry areas, where different parts of the face have different needs. Often, the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) is oily, while the rest of the face is dry.

Skincare: Moisture and protection are key. Different areas of the face may require different products — for example, a richer cream for the cheeks and a lighter moisturiser for the T-zone.

Tip! Exfoliating the face once or twice a week removes dead skin cells and helps boost radiance.

Sensitive skin

Characteristics: Sensitive skin often feels dry and becomes easily red or irritated.

Skincare: Focus on hydrating day and night creams. Products should be gentle and fragrance-free.

Keep in mind! Avoid using too many products in your skincare routine, as this can increase the risk of irritation.

Mature skin

Characteristics: Mature skin has lost some of its natural firmness and elasticity, which can make it appear sagging. Fine lines, wrinkles and dryness are common.

Skincare: After the age of 30, the skin’s natural collagen production decreases, increasing the need for hydration. Choose nourishing, moisturising products. Vitamin A is particularly effective in boosting cell renewal.

Which skin type do I have?

To determine your skin type, your skin must be completely clean. Cleanse your face twice in a row, but do not apply any products afterwards. How does your skin feel now — tight or comfortable? Wait 2–3 hours. Does it feel different? Does it look shiny? Take a piece of tissue paper and press it against your skin. If the paper shows oily marks, you have oily skin. Press the paper on different areas of the face to check for combination skin. If the skin looks shiny but the paper remains clean, you have dry skin. Dry skin can appear shiny because the skin feels tight. If the paper shows only faint marks, you have normal skin. The most common skin type is combination skin. Keep in mind that all skin types can appear shiny after a long, stressful day — but only when the skin is clean can its true characteristics be assessed.