Know Your Skin Type: The First Step to Healthy Skin

“The first step to having healthy skin is knowing and understanding your skin type,” says Richard Price MD, of Price Skincare Clinic in Ridgeland, MS. “Understanding the problems associated with various skin types helps you know what to watch for and how to take care of your skin to keep it as healthy as possible,”

To help with that, we’ve put together a skin type primer complete with:
• A brief description of each skin type
•. Common problems of each skin type
•. And key ingredients to look for in skincare products for each type.

Which skin type is yours?

Normal Skin
Description: Normal skin has an even tone, small pores and a smooth texture. It’s not too oily or too dry and is elastic and hydrated.

Common Problems: Because normal skin is considered healthy, those with this type seldom have issues with their skin. However, depending on factors such as exposure to weather, hydration and environmental favors, one can experience occasional dryness or oiliness.

Key Product Ingredients: Look for skincare products that contain antioxidants like Vitamin C, lightweight hydration, sunscreen.

Dry Skin
Description: Dry skin lacks moisture, leading to a rough texture, flakiness, and potential for irritation. The pores are often smaller with the skin feeling tight, especially after cleansing.

Common Problems: Those with dry skin are prone to experience fine lines, dullness, irritation, and sensitivity. Dry skin can also become flaky or rough if not properly hydrated.

Key Product Ingredients: When shopping for products for dry skin, look for products that include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, shea butter, squalane.

Oily Skin
Description: Oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum, which leads to a shiny or greasy appearance, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin. Pores are often enlarged.

Common Problems: Those with oily skin are at risk for blackheads, whiteheads, acne, and clogged pores due to the excess oil.

Key Product Ingredients: Oily skin responds best to products containing with salicylic acid, niacinamide, tea tree oil, clay and witch hazel.

Combination Skin
Description: Those with combination skin have a mix of dry and oily areas. The forehead, nose and chin are often oily, while the cheeks and other areas are normal to dry.

Common Problems: Uneven texture, clogged pores in oily areas, and dry patches in others are common challenges. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find products that address both concerns.

Key Product Ingredients: To care for combination skin, treat with products that include niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and balancing formulas.

Sensitive Skin
Description: Sensitive skin is easily irritated by environmental factors or certain products. This skin type often reacts with redness, itching, burning or dryness. It may also be prone to conditions like rosacea or eczema.

Common Problems: Prone to inflammation, redness, allergic reactions, and irritation, sensitive skin is easily affected by harsh chemicals, fragrances, and environmental changes.

Key Product Ingredients: Sensitive skin calls for products featuring aloe vera, chamomile, oat extract, ceramides and azelaic acid.

If you have questions about your skin type, what products to use for it, or would like to schedule your annual skin screen exam, call Price Skincare Clinic at: 601.992.3996