Every skin is unique. That’s why there is no skincare routine or make-up product that works equally well for everyone. Knowing your skin type helps you choose the right products and prevent common skin concerns. Below you’ll find the five most common skin types along with practical skincare and make-up tips.
Normal Skin
- Soft, smooth skin with an even complexion
- Fine pores
- No redness
- No sensitivity to skincare or cosmetic products
Dry Skin
- Looks flaky and dull and often feels tight after cleansing
- Shows signs of ageing at an early stage
- Is more prone to fine lines, especially around the eyes
- Use a good moisturiser and an eye cream every day
- A lightweight liquid foundation is usually a better choice than cream or stick foundations
- Oil-based products are easier to blend into the skin
- Powder tends to settle into fine lines and can make them appear more noticeable
- Cream blush generally provides a more flattering finish than powder blush.
Sensitive Skin
- May itch, become red or flaky, and is prone to swelling
- Reacts easily to products containing allergens and fragrances
- More susceptible to sunburn
- Dab redness with a concealer or primer before applying foundation
- A yellow-based foundation is generally more effective than a pink-toned foundation for neutralising redness
- Choose a foundation with SPF for daily sun protection
- For eye make-up, opt for beige and brown shades, as they typically contain fewer pigments and are less likely to cause irritation
- Soft eye pencils are generally a better choice than liquid eyeliners, as they tend to be gentler on sensitive skin and are easier to remove
Oily Skin
- Has a noticeable oily shine
- Visible, enlarged pores
- Prone to pimples and blackheads
- Mineral foundations are well suited to oily skin because the skin’s natural oils help the mineral powder blend seamlessly for a more natural finish. Alternatively, choose a lightweight mattifying foundation and lightly set it with loose powder
- Cream blushes and cream eyeshadows are generally not recommended, as they tend to become greasy and crease or slide off more easily
- Oil-free make-up products are preferable because they help control excess shine throughout the day
Combination Skin
- The T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) tends to become oily and has enlarged pores
- The cheeks are usually normal or dry
- Different areas of the face require different skincare
- Use lightweight, hydrating products on the entire face and apply mattifying products only to the T-zone
- A lightweight liquid foundation is generally a better choice than a heavy, full-coverage foundation
- Apply powder only to areas that become shiny to avoid emphasising dry patches
- Cream products on the cheeks combined with mattifying products on the T-zone help create a natural, balanced complexion
Conclusion
Knowing your skin type is the foundation of an effective skincare routine and make-up that truly suits your skin. If you’re unsure which skin type you have, I’d be happy to help you identify it during a custom make-up coaching session.
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