Identify Your Skin Type: A Comprehensive Guide to Healthy Skin

The 5 Skin Types (Baumann Classification Simplified)

Type	Characteristics	Core Needs	Key Ingredients	Avoid
Normal	Balanced sebum, smooth, minimal pores, rare sensitivity	Maintain barrier, preventative antioxidant	Gentle cleanser, light moisturizer, SPF 30+, vitamin C, retinoid (pm)	Harsh scrubs, drying alcohol
Dry	Tight, rough, flaking, fine lines, dull, prone to eczema	Lipid replenishment, barrier repair, hydration	Cream cleanser, ceramide-rich moisturizer, hyaluronic acid, occlusive (squalane), gentle chemical exfoliant (PHA)	Foaming cleansers, high % AHAs, clay masks
Oily	Shiny, enlarged pores, comedones, acne-prone, makeup slides	Sebum regulation, pore clarity, lightweight hydration	Gel cleanser (salicylic acid), niacinamide, oil-free moisturizer, retinoid, clay mask 1×/wk	Heavy creams, occlusive oils, over-washing
Combination	Oily T-zone, dry/normal cheeks, seasonal shifts	Zone-specific care, balance	Balanced cleanser, light moisturizer overall + richer on cheeks, niacinamide T-zone, multi-masking	One-product-fits-all approach
Sensitive	Reactive (sting, burn, red), compromised barrier, often rosacea/eczema	Soothe, strengthen barrier, minimize triggers	Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, ceramides, centella, azelaic acid, mineral SPF	Fragrance, essential oils, physical scrubs, high % actives, alcohol

How to Determine Your Type

1. Cleanse gently; pat dry.
2. Wait 1 hour (no products).
3. Observe: shine (T-zone vs. full face), tightness, pore visibility, comfort.
4. Blotting paper test: press on forehead, nose, cheeks, chin; hold to light.

Dynamic Factors

• Age (↓ sebum after 40), hormones (cycle, pregnancy, menopause), climate, stress, medications (retinoids, diuretics), products.
• Reassess seasonally and after major life changes.

Universal Principles

• Cleanser → Treatment (actives) → Moisturizer → SPF (AM) / Moisturizer → Treatment (PM).
• Patch test new products (jawline × 3 days).
• Introduce one active at a time (2–4 wks).
• Dermatologist for persistent acne, rosacea, eczema, suspicious lesions.

Skin type is a starting point, not a life sentence. Listen to your skin daily.