SKIN TYPES​

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OVERVIEW

The skin is the largest organ in our body and healthy skin is vital for carrying out some hugely important functions. It acts as a barrier between our bodies and the outside world protecting us from pathogens, heat loss and physical damage. It is through our skin that we can feel the world around us. The health of our skin can be affected by many factors such as the sun's UV radiation, temperature, aggressive skin care products, pH and nutrition.

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The skin on our face can be very different from the skin on other parts of our body. Understanding your skin is the best way to determine what your skin needs.

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BALANCED SKIN

Is where there is an even distribution of just enough sebum across your skin preventing it from being too dry or too oily. This allows your skin to function in the best way.

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DRY SKIN

Lacks the sebum needed to keep the skin lubricated. This type of skin can appear dull and dry with cracks appearing on the surface. Our skin acts as a barrier to the outside world. Skin that is well moisturised with sebum is able to lock-in water molecules. A lack of sebum causes the skins protective barrier functions to decrease. Dry skin can lead to a variety of skin complaints.

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OILY SKIN

Where the sebaceous glands overproduce sebum throughout the skin. This leads to enlarged pores and greasy, shiny skin. Oily skin is acne-prone skin and you may experience an increase in comedones, papules and pustules which are all part of the acne process.

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COMBINATION SKIN

This is where there is an overproduction of sebum on the forehead, nose and chin (T- Zone). This causes enlarged pores and greasy skin in these areas but normal or dry skin on the cheeks. This skin type is particularly challenging to manage.

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SKIN COLOUR

Skin colour has a lot to do with how external factors can affect your skin. Melanin is the pigment that determines how dark your skin is. Melanin can be affected by inflammation, UV radiation, injuries and medication. It determines how our skin responds to UV radiation and can also affect the healing processes and scarring.

 

SENSITIVE SKIN

Skin that has partially lost its protective barrier function. This type of skin is easily affected by the elements of the world around them. It is prone to irritation and inflammation and can easily be damaged by the sun and various skin products. This type of skin is more prone to stinging, burning and irritation and there is a greater need to take care when picking skin products. Genetics, stress, frequent chemical exposure, existing skin conditions (e.g. eczema), lack of sleep, UV radiation, harsh and perfumed skin care products and dehydration can all contribute to sensitive skin.