Skin types

We have talked about the structure of the skin in another article, so we will not dwell on it in detail here.

What

What are the main functions of the skin?

• adapts heat loss to the outside temperature;
• regulates water loss depending on temperature and humidity – “under normal conditions” between 0.5 and 1 liter per day;
• secretes salts (through the sweat glands) and lipid substances (sebum, “lipid mantle of the skin”);
• serves as a barrier against foreign substances and microorganisms, including control of the pH level of the surface;
• builds individual protection against stress caused by UV light;
• protects against mechanical stress;
• transmits pain, temperature, and tactile stimuli through nerves.

The difference in the appearance of skin types can be due to both genetic predisposition and the conditions of the environment in which we live, the diet and the stress to which we are subjected.

What

What skin types are there?

Each person is unique, and this does not only apply to character. There are many systems aimed at characterizing and classifying different skin types, but scientists have not reached a consensus. Broadly speaking, we can divide skin types into five types:

Normal skin has a smooth texture and a pink, flat surface with fine pores. There are no visible spots, oily or scaly areas. Sebum production, moisture content and exfoliation are well balanced.

– not too oily, not too dry; it feels the same in all areas
– there are some slight differences in pigmentation and tones
– there are no visible imperfections and the pores are almost invisible
– looks clean and smooth
– minimal amount of lines or wrinkles
– the skin does not feel dry, tight or greasy even at the end of the day

Oily skin is characterized by an increased amount of sebum on the surface due to the overactivity of the sebaceous glands. The skin is shiny and dense, often with enlarged pores. It is prone to blackheads and other blemishes, occurs more often in men than women, and mostly affects adolescents and younger people.

– has a shiny appearance due to sebum
– large and visible pores
– presence of acne, spots and blackheads

Acne-prone / Reactive skin – With this skin type, sebum production is not well regulated, as a result of which the skin turns out to be a favorable environment for the development of bacterial species such as Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Malassezia furfur. Thus, the microbial balance shifts in favor of the harmful microflora and leads to the appearance of pimples, inflammation and subsequent hyperpigmentation of the affected areas.

– no shine
– presence of reddened and scaly areas
– small pores
– low level of elasticity
– early appearance of light furrows and wrinkles

Combination skin is quite dry in some parts and oily in others. Combination facial skin tends to be dry on the cheeks and around the eyes, and oily in the T-zone (nose, forehead, chin). Dry and oily areas require different care. This skin type is very common.

– the combination between oily and dry skin makes it difficult to maintain
– the areas around the chin, nose and forehead can be very oily, and the rest of the face – too dry.
– large pores and tendency to the appearance of blackheads

Mature skin – As we age, the skin’s sebum production decreases, often leading to increased dryness, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and flaking. The skin may look lifeless and itch. Another problem is hyperpigmentation, especially in individuals with a long history of sun exposure.

“Sensitive skin” is not exactly a skin type, but rather a symptom caused by various factors. People tend to describe their skin as “sensitive” if it often reacts with redness, itching, burning, or dryness to topical skin care products. The causes of this condition can be a hidden skin disease, allergies, contact with irritants in certain products or incorrect use of cosmetic products.

How

How to determine your skin type at home?

In order to assign your skin to the correct category at home and to more accurately choose cosmetic products, we offer you the following procedure:

1. Gently wash and pat dry your face;
2. Wait for two hours;
3. Finally, take a few thin paper towels and press them against your face,
4. Check whether oiliness is observed on the paper or not.

If you don’t have time or think you won’t be able to do it, we have an easy solution. Visit Personal Diagnostics by L‘ali and we will do it for you!

Why

Why is it important to take care of our skin daily?

When

When should we worry about our skin health?

You know your own skin best! A change in appearance or the way you feel is an indicator of some disorder in the body. Most daily changes are due to the different level of hormones during the month/season and the cosmetics used, but if you experience discomfort or redness for more than a few days, seek dermatological help.

Who

This is an editorial prepared especially for you by L‘ali.
All rights reserved!