The different skin types

What your skin needs in the way of treatment and preparation depends upon its type- and that depends upon texture, colour and condition.
There are three textures- oily, dry and balanced, often known as normal. Many skins are a combination of oily and dry. To determine skin type, cleanse skin thoroughly and using a magnifying glass in strong light, examine it closely.
TEXTURE: Oily- Caused by overproduction of sebum by the oil glands. Affects darker skins mostly; but even a light skin is inclined to go sallow. Skin shines constantly, is coarse and has enlarged pores. It is often plagued by breakouts, blackheads, and acne.
Trying to remove all oils from the skin only encourages greater gland activity. It is important you remove only excess oil from the surface. Too enthusiastic a treatment with harsh soap or cleansing lotion will often dehydrate the epidermis, leaving the skin in a flaky condition.
Dry- Three different things cause dry skin: dehydration, insufficient amount of oil secretion and ageing. It affects 85% of all light skinned women. Skin is generally of a fine texture, but looks and feels tight and drawn. It chaps, flakes and peels easily, and even at an early age may show wrinkles and lines. Contributory factors to this condition are: use of wrong cosmetics, strong soaps, exposure to heat and wind, air-conditioning. One of the most importants steps in dealing with a dry skin is to try and avoid further dehydration by sealing in moisture. The lack of natural oils must be compensated by rich external lubrication.
Balanced- Exists when oil, moisture and acidity are harmonious. It is ideal but rare. Skin is fine textured with no visible pores, smooth to touch, neither wet nor greasy. It has a tendency to become more dry with time, so it needs assistance to retain the status quo.
Combination- This is really skin in transition between dry and oily state. It gives off too much oil in the T-area of forehead, nose and chin;the rest is particularly dry around eyes and on cheeks. The dry and oily areas have to be treated seperately.

COLOUR: The colour of the skin depends on the degree of pigmentation. Light skin tones are graded from pale to pink, beige to rosy; dark skin tones go from olive to caramel, brown to black.

CONDITION: Sensitive- Usually dry skin plus. Fine textured often with a transparent, the upper layer being particularly thin and sensitive and likely to develop broken capillaries. Reacts quickly to both external and internal influences- sun, wind, emotions, food and drink. Needs usually dry skin care plus extra protective lubrication. Watch for any allergies.
Blemished- Usually oily skin plus. Troubled with pimples, sometimes to the intensity of acne. Needs usual oily skin care plus attention medicated preparations that dry and heal- and professional advice.

Glow as you go~