A lot of us tend to use the wrong products for our skin because we’re not quite sure what our skin type is. And contrary to popular belief, our skin cannot be divided into just four types (oily, dry, normal and combination). In fact, with so many diverse skin types and climate conditions in India, our skin can be divided into 9 types. Yes, you heard that right! And to help you figure out the right product for your skin, we’ve made a list of 9 tell-tale signs that determine your skin type and how to choose the right product.
1. Normal – Sensitive
So you thought normal skin was a blessing? Think again. Even normal skin can have sub-categories and problems that affect how your skin behaves. People with normal-sensitive skin usually have red, dehydrated skin showing signs of ageing. Apart from that, you’re prone to react to harsh products.
You need: You need products that are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. It is also a good idea to look for a product that is not harsh and hydrates your skin at the same time, like the Dove Sensitive Skin soap which gently cleanses your skin and doesn’t block pores. Additionally, you could take the Dove Sensitive Skin Test which tells you the kind of skin you have.
Also Read: Best Face Washes In India
2. Normal – Ageing
If your skin produces oil in the summer, gets extremely dry in the winter and is prone to lines and wrinkles, you have the normal-ageing skin type.
You need: Products with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acid) to boost cellular turnover and antioxidants to brighten your complexion, prevent environmental damage and get rid of dark spots. Products that contain Vitamin C, Peppermint and Rosemary extract can help hydrate and boost life into your skin.
3. Normal
Very few people tend to have normal skin that is neither prone to ageing, nor to oil or dryness. Consider yourself lucky and take preventive measure to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
You need: Weekly exfoliation and daily cleansing, hydration and toning to maintain a flawless glow and ageless skin.
4. Dry – Ageing
If you spent a lot of time in the sun, your skin will eventually start looking tired and damaged. It will also be prone to ageing due to the lack of sufficient hydration. Enlarged pores, blackheads, hyperpigmentation and oiliness in the T-zone are some of the problems this skin type tends to face.
You need: Products that contain AHAs and Peptides to result in tighter, younger looking skin with smaller pores. Rosemary, Ginseng and Red Rice Culture extract work energise your skin and make it look less tired.
5. Dry – Sensitive
Dry skin is more prone to ageing and if you’ve got sensitive skin as well then you’re no stranger to redness and the dire need of hydration. Hyperpigmentation, irritated skin and blackheads ten to make a regular appearance.
You need: Lipid-rich natural oils and comforting botanicals soothe your skin and strengthen it from within. Look for ingredients like White Tea, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate and bioactive Peptides in the products you use. The Dove Sensitive Soap is a great option to cleanse your skin. It is mild and helps hydrate your skin, getting rid of dryness, redness and itchiness.
6. Dry – Sun Damaged
This skin type will feel dryness throughout the year and have enlarged pores in the T-zone area. Hyperpigmentation due to a history of sun exposure can be seen and your skin is in dire need of hydration all the time.
You need: AHA’s and bioactive peptides to hydrate and tighten your skin and bring the glow back. Take care to use a sunscreen (and reapply it regularly) when you step out in the sun.
7. Oily – Clogged Pores – Severe Breakouts
This skin type is characterised by extremely oily skin, severe acne including blackheads and cysts, large pores on the entire face and scars. You tend to break out when you use heavy oils, oil-based products or pore-clogging ingredients.
You need: Products with anti-septic botanicals can help reduce breakouts. Regular exfoliation which will unclog your pores. It is a great idea to use soothing ingredients like aloe vera for this type of skin.
8. Oily – Combination – Ageing – Occasional Breakouts
Enlarged pores and pigmentation with oily skin mainly in the T-zone? You tend to look older since your skin is prone to ageing (due to the lack of hydration) and occasional breakouts have you in a fix.
You need: A non-drying, pore-cleansing exfoliant with hydrating antioxidants and skin-brightening properties. Ingredients like Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and Salicylic Acid help maintain healthy and radiant skin with fewer lines and wrinkles.
9. Oily – Combination – Sensitive – Consistent Breakouts
If you have skin that quickly turns red, feels tight, dry and irritated and is prone to acne, then you belong in this category. Since your skin is sensitive, it mostly reacts to harsh products. You are also at the risk of ageing.
You need: Products with antibacterial and soothing properties that deliver blemish-clearing benefits without leaving the skin feeling dry or irritated. Hydrate your skin with an oil-free moisturiser since moisturisers with oil can clog your pores further. Clean it with Dove Sensitive Soap for a glowing complexion and soothed, hydrated skin.
*This is a sponsored post for Dove Sensitive. The new Dove Sensitive is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free and pH Neutral and has ¼ moisturizing cream that gently cleanses your skin, leaving it soft and smooth. It is easily available at a general store near you and online as well.