It may be tempting to scoop up some celebrity-endorsed skincare products or take suggestions from friends and family, but these products can wreak havoc on your face if their formulas aren’t specific to your skin type. If you’re unsure about your skin type, you may ask why it matters. The answer is simple: caring for your skin properly starts with identifying your unique facial skin type. Explore why it’s important to know your skin type and take control of your personalized skincare potential.

Choosing the Right Products

One of the most significant reasons to know your skin type is because it can help you choose the best products for your skin. For example, your friend with normal skin might rave about a specific cleanser or moisturizer, but it may not be a suitable option for you if you have oily skin.

Furthermore, makeup sets differently on different skin textures; therefore, understanding how your skin changes throughout the day can help you decide how to get your makeup look to last all day long. Believe it or not, not every product is appropriate for all skin types, but there are suitable products on the market for every type.

Developing a Skincare Routine

Caring for your skin is essential to keep it bright, clear, and beautiful; however, your grandma’s tried and true routine may not work for your unique skin. For instance, dry or sensitive skin may require heavier moisturizing more frequently, and oily skin only needs a light moisturizer twice each day.

Additionally, the cleanser you choose should be a specific formulation designed to work with your skin rather than against it. For example, you should use an oil-free product for oily skin, but an extra hydrating product may be the best option for dry skin.

Oily vs. Combination Skin

Many people believe they have oily skin because their forehead appears shiny as the day progresses, but that’s not always the case. Oily and combination are very similar skin types, but there are a few distinct differences.

Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, you’ll notice shininess and excess oil over your entire face. Oftentimes, the extra oil clogs your pores and causes unwanted acne as a result. Although acne is more common in people with oily skin, it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll struggle with frequent breakouts.

Combination Skin

Although you may have excess sebum on your face, you might mistake combination skin for oily. Those with combination skin have excess oil in their T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) but have normal or dry cheeks.

Now that you understand why it’s important to know your skin type, you should take steps to determine your skin type if you’re unsure. Choosing your products and developing a skincare routine will be much easier once you know your skin’s tendencies and how your face changes throughout the day.