What’s your skin type?

WHAT’S YOUR SKIN TYPE?

Published on July 27, 2023, by Astrid

Reading time : 3 minutes

Knowing your skin type means you can give it the care it needs. It also enables it to play its role as a barrier against external aggression. Normal, combination, dry or oily skin, can you identify your skin type?

SUMMARY

What is a skin type?

Skin type is determined by our genetic heritage and by changes in the water and lipid balance of our hydrolipidic film (the protective surface barrier). For example, skin color, which is primarily determined by our genetic heritage, influences skin type.
Black and brown skins have certain distinctive characteristics due to melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Melanin provides natural protection from UV rays. Combined with a thicker skin barrier, it helps reduce moisture loss. Therefore, the moisturizing needs of black and brown skins are not the same as those of fair skin.

Skin type is not constant. With age, sebum production decreases, which can lead to alterations in the hydrolipidic film. Dermal proteins (collagen, hyaluronic acid, elastin) are damaged. As a result, the skin tends to become drier, less supple and may lose its natural radiance.

Skin type should not be confused with skin condition. The condition of our skin can vary according to various internal and external factors to which it is exposed. The seasons, the environment, diet, stress and hormonal fluctuations are all factors that can cause changes. The use of certain cosmetics or medical treatments can also affect the condition of our skin. Find out more about skin conditions.

Determine your skin type

To define your skin type, pay attention to your sensations. Does your skin feel tight or shiny, all over your face or in certain areas? Is it rough, smooth, soft or oily to the touch? Are your pores dilated or tight? Are there any signs of redness ? Do you have pimples or blackheads?

Normal skin
A normal skin is smooth, soft and supple, with an even texture and almost invisible pores. With few imperfections, the complexion is even. No discomfort or tightness. Normal skin is neither dry nor oily. It's naturally comfortable and balanced: well hydrated and nourished. The skin everyone dreams of! Our advice for maintaining an adequate level of hydration: include gentle, non-aggressive products in your routine. Choose products containing glycerine, hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica.

Dry skin
A dry skin feels rough, tight and sometimes dull. It is tight, flaky and feels constantly uncomfortable. Pores are constricted (invisible) and the skin is prone to fine lines and irritation.

Dry skin produces less sebum than normal skin. It lacks the lipids needed to retain water and act as a barrier against external aggressors. Our advice for restoring comfort on a daily basis: choose a routine based on very gentle, nourishing products. Choose a moisturizing cream enriched with natural oils, such as The Cream by Le Domaine.

Oily skin
An oily skin tends to be shiny all over the face. It tends to be thick, with enlarged pores (visible) and certain imperfections (spots, blackheads, acne...). The skin texture is irregular and the complexion can be dull.
Unlike dry skin, oily skin tends to produce excess sebum, making it shiny. On the plus side, it is naturally more hydrated and protected from external aggressions. Our advice for hydrated, cleansed skin? Avoid overly harsh products. Instead, choose gentle skincare products that remove excess sebum without drying out the skin.

Combination skin
A combination skin tends to shine on the midzone, also known as the T-zone: forehead, nose, chin. Only in this area do we find characteristics similar to those of oily skin. The rest of the face (temples, cheeks, and oval of the face) oscillates between normal and dry skin. It can sometimes feel tight on the sides, and its appearance is uniform.
Combination skin is a special type of skin that's quite unstable. It's also the most common. This skin type needs balance and hydration. Our advice? Choose gentle, balancing products and a moisturizing cream adapted to combination skin, such as The Fluid Cream by Le Domaine.

Have you identified your skin type? Don't hesitate to consult our articles on how to learn to take care of your skin and choose the right routine for you