Type of Skin

Knowing your skin type is the chief way you can ensure your skin feels and looks its best. Many people, however, get confused when trying to figure out exactly what their skin type is. Skin can be divided into various types according to its texture. It is essential to know what skin type you actually have and using the correct products on your face can really make a difference to those problem areas you may have.

Due to our higher levels of collagen, male skin is up to 20% thicker and tougher than female skin . Male skin is also oilier, with larger exposed pores, a richer blood supply, and more of a tendency to break out in a sweat compared with women's skin.

There are five basic skin types.

1. Normal skin
2. Dry skin
3. Oily skin
4. Combination skin
5. Sensitive skin

Combination Skin

Combination Skin: Skin that is oily in some parts but dry or normal in others is considered as combination skin. The oily skin is concentrated on the T-zone, which is across the forehead, down the nose and chin. Whenever you wash your face, you may find that some areas of your face feel tight after washing; and that these parts look dull or feel dry and rough whereas the T-zone looks shiny, feels oily to touch and is prone to pimples and blackheads. Combination skin needs special attention because the dry parts of your face need to be considered, whereas the oily parts need to be kept clean to avoid breakouts. Follow these simple tips each day and see what a difference they make to your skin.

1. Cleanse your entire face twice a day. Always use a mild cleanser to gently remove dirt, grime and make-up from your face.

2. The dry areas of your face need to be moisturized to prevent the formation of premature wrinkles. Use a good moisturizer on the dry parts of your face, and if possible, use an oil-free moisturizer on your T-zone.

3. If you use make-up, try and use oil-free/shine control type of make-up on the T-zone. These products are easily available in the market today and help absorb all the excess oil secretion and control the shine.

4. If you have a combination skin, your skin will greatly benefit from AHA and Vitamin C moisturizers and creams. Products that contain AHA tend to normalize the skin.

Dry Skin

- Dry Skin: Dry skin needs extra care, as it is prone to fine lines and wrinkles. This is especially true during the winter months when it feels even drier and may feel too taut or may even flake. A few measures help alleviate dryness and keep your skin supple and, at the same time, guard against premature aging.
1. Always wash your face with a mild, soap-free face wash. Never use soap, as that would further strip your skin of natural oil.

2. Always use a moisturizer during the day. Use upward, circular motion to lightly massage the moisturizer into your face. Make sure not to pull or tug your skin.

3. You should consider using a night cream before going to bed at night. It is advisable to use a cream that contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids(or AHA's, as they're commonly known).AHA's are derived from sources such as milk, fruit and sugar-cane. These acids gently exfoliate the dry, dead, outermost layers of skin while they moisturize the newly revealed layers. They greatly benefit complexions that look dull, dry or flaky and they give your skin a beautiful glow.

4. Both AHA and Vitamin C help reduce fine lines and other signs of aging. Thus, you may get good results quickly by using a moisturizer or cream that contains Vitamin C during the day and an AHA-based night cream. Most known brands have moisturizers and creams that contain these.

5. If you have dry skin that tends to flake off, looks red and has some itchy patches that scab, consult your doctor to rule out eczema. Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is generally considered to be a hereditary condition that can occur throughout the year. Other causes of eczema can be fabrics such as wool, some skin-care products or detergents etc.Your doctor may prescribe a cream to soothe the redness and irritation.Non-irriating fabrics such as cotton also help avoid flare-ups.

6.Many people suffer from weather-related dry skin. If the weather in the winter months is normally drier and this tends to dehydrate your skin, regular use of moisturizer will keep your skin hydrated and supple.