Different Types of Skin

Dry, Oily, Combination, Normal or Sensitive Skin

© Jennifer Gittins

Jun 18, 2009
There is a variety of different types of skin, each with its own unique traits.

The type of skin an individual has is produced through many factors. Some of these factors range from genetics, to diet and exercise, health or even environmental factors. There are four main types of skin: normal, dry, oily and combination.

Normal Skin Types

Normal skin is the most coveted of all skin types. It is ideal because the skin has a balanced production of oil. It is never too oily, nor is it ever too dry. Normal skin usually requires less attention than other skin types, however it is possible to achieve normal skin through a proper beauty regiment.

Normal skin benefits from an occasional facial scrub, daily sunscreen and toner. A “healthy glow” is often associated with normal skin types because breakouts are few and far between, if they occur at all.

Dry Skin Types

Dry skin is dull and flaky. It can be itchy, red, aggravated and inflamed. Often, dry skin is caused by a lack of oil production in the skin. However, it can also be the result of cold or dry weather, as well as moderate to severe dehydration.

Dry skin benefits from facial scrubs or cleansers to help remove the flaky skin, as well as daily moisturizing to prevent future flakes from occurring.

Oily Skin Types

An overproduction of oil in the skin causes oily skin types to give off a “greasy” look. It can appear shiny, slippery and often individuals with oily skin have moderate to severe acne.

Oily skin benefits from a mild to moderate cleanser, most often recommended by a dermatologist for best results. Luckily, oily skin has an upside: those with oily skin often have a younger complexion longer than other skin types. This is because the oils in the skin help keep it moist and prolong the effects of aging.

Combination Skin Types and the “T-Zone”

Many people have combination skin. Combination skin types are skin types that can have dry and oily spots on their skin. This is usually referred to as the “T-zone” area in which the chin, nose and forehead are often oily while the rest of the skin may be dry or normal.

Individuals with combination skin types need to re-evaluate their skin on a regular basis due to changing skin type. For some, a mild cleanser regimen combined with a light moisturizer produces good results. For others, a dermatologist may be needed to evaluate the skin.

Sensitive Skin

There are also individuals who suffer from sensitive skin. However, sensitive skin reacts to factors such as the environment or to products that are placed on the skin. Sensitive skin can also be oily, dry, normal or be combination skin. Therefore, sensitive skin is considered a skin condition rather than a skin type.

Skin type is known to play a huge role in acne. It is best to seek out the help of a dermatologist rather than wasting money purchasing a variety of different products that do not work.


The copyright of the article Different Types of Skin in Skin/Nail Care is owned by Jennifer Gittins. Permission to republish Different Types of Skin in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.




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