Skin Types are a combined expression of our genes, or hereditary traits and our environment.  This combination creates three types of skin: normal, oily and dry.  These types of skin can appear in various degrees ranging from a little oily to slightly dry to very dry or incredibly oily.  Sometimes they are a combination of several types.  This usually happens in the T-zone, which is the area across the forehead, down the nose to the chin.

Normal skin types have good tone, hydration and resilience produced by a properly functioning epidermis.  The best example of normal skin can be witnessed on children, from birth up to puberty.

Many factors alter the skin, these include the passage of time, sun exposure, harsh climates, dehydration, and poor skincare.  It may even be influenced by poor nutrition.  Food devoid of vitamins, enzymes and amino acids impact cellular regeneration and growth.

Normal skin requires proper maintenance with morning and evening cleansing plus protection from oxidation caused by free radicals and the sun.  Use of protective moisturizers containing anti-oxidants such as: vitamins E, C, idebenone, or coenzyme Q10.

Oily skin occurs when sebaceous glands over produce sebum.  It may be identified when the skin has a shinny, thick or firm appearance, and may look dirty or uncared for. Often this kind of skin may feel oily to the touch.

Hot and humid climates, improper skincare product, or excessive use of harsh soaps may increase the severity of oily skin.

This skin type can be organized into two groups: oily skin without water deficiency, and  oily with water deficiency.

• Oily skin without water deficiency: Skin has proper hydration, but it looks or feels oily but does not have the sensation of dryness.
• Oily skin with water deficiency: Skin does not have proper hydration, looks or feels oily ad has a sensation of dryness.

Caring for oily skin requires thorough yet gentle cleansing in the morning and evening.  Use oil-free moisturizing gels or lotions to help maintain its suppleness and moisture.   Exfoliators that provide moisture such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or weekly use of enzyme peels are suggested.

Dry skin typically occurs because of underactive sebaceous glands, abnormal exfoliation (hyperkeratosis), environmental factors, and age.  Women post menopause may experience skin dryness.  Dry skin usually feels scaly, rough, or itchy, it can be characterized as very fine, overly delicate, and thin with almost invisible pores.  Dry skin associated with with abnormal exfoliation, sun damage or premature aging may appear thick and flakey.

When caring for this kind of skin type include products that will add emollients or oils to the skin surface and will stimulate the skins ability to naturally produce humectants (water binding ingredients).  Emollients help the skin by encouraging a sealing film and minimizing moisture loss.  They could include high molecular weight ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and dimethicone.  You may also boost your dry skin’s natural water retention and maintain moisture with lactic acids, glycerin, urea, ceramides, and cholesterol.  A nourishing, hydrating mask may also serve as an invaluable wellness tool to assist with your dry skin.  As with any skin type the use of products with anit-oxidants is essential to delay cellular damage.