Identifying your skin type is the first step in creating a skincare plan that works best for you. It's important to note that your skin type can change over time. External factors such as environment and skincare products as well as internal factors such as age, hormones, and medications all affect your skin's texture.

So what kind of skin do you have? To help determine your skin type, dermatologist Robert Miller MD of Long Beach, CA has created a list of the six most common skin types below. If you're looking for solutions for your skin and want to take action now, contact Dr. Robert Miller today.

 

Normal Skin Type:

Normal skin is characterized by normal moisture and oil levels. As a result, your skin may have barely noticeable pores and infrequent blemishes. Normal skin feels comfortable and has only a subtle, healthy sheen. After cleansing, skin will feel clean but not over-dry and sensitive, and will only need a daily moisturizer. This skin type is most balanced but can be more challenging to maintain later in life as skin ages and becomes drier.

 

Combination Skin Type:

This is the most common skin type. Most of us experience a degree of excess oil around the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) since there are naturally more sebaceous glands, the glands that produce oil, present around the center of our faces. But individuals with true combination skin experience oily T-zones consistently throughout the day as well as dryness, and sometimes even flakiness, on the cheeks and around the eye area. To care for combination skin, individuals should try using different products for different areas of the face to create a skincare plan that works best. A lighter moisturizer on the T-zone paired with a heavier cream around the cheeks and eyes may be helpful for balancing this skin type.

 

Dry Skin Type:

Individuals with dry skin have trouble maintaining oil and moisture levels. Like normal skin, dry skin is characterized by barely noticeable pores. But instead of feeling comfortable, dry skin feels tight and parched, and may have visible fine lines and sometimes even flaking. It may also appear dull. To care for dry skin, adequate moisture is essential. Try using richer moisturizers and creams after cleansing to replenish and reenergize skin.

 

Oily Skin Type:

Oily skin is characterized by an overproduction of oil. If you have larger pores that have the tendency to become clogged and your skin has a shiny, thick complexion, you may be dealing with oily skin. While individuals with oily skin may feel the need to frequently cleanse, over-washing can be an issue. It may be best to stick to cleansing morning and night, and follow-up with a light, oil-free moisturizer or SPF.

 

Sensitive Skin Type:

If you have this skin type, your skin is easily irritated by most skincare products and cleansers. You often suffer from breakouts and redness, and may even experience flakiness or itching. People with sensitive skin usually experience minor discomfort throughout the day. To care for this skin type, make sure to be aware of product ingredients that can cause flare-ups and stick to mild, calming, fragrance-free products.

 

Regardless of your skin type, there are a few key steps you can integrate into your morning and nightly routine to support balanced, healthy skin.

• Cleanse morning and night and follow-up with a daily moisturizer.
• Change your pillowcase regularly.
• Drink enough water throughout the day.
• If you don't have sensitive skin, exfoliate once a week.

---

Consult dermatologist Dr. Robert Miller of Long Beach, CA for the skin care plan that’s best for you. To make an appointment click here.

By identifying your skin type, you have a better chance of supporting healthy, energized skin. The best way to determine what kind of skin you have, or where your skin lies on the spectrum of skin types, is to visit a dermatologist. From there, a dermatologist can create an individualized plan to better care for your skin. Make an appointment with dermatologist Dr. Robert Miller today to learn more.