Skin Types Explained: Oily, Dry, Combination & Sensitive — Identification and Care

Understanding your skin type guides product selection and routine. The four main categories:

1. Oily

• Signs: Shine (especially T-zone), enlarged pores, blackheads/whiteheads, makeup slides off.
• Care: Gel/foam cleanser, lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizer, salicylic acid, niacinamide, clay masks.

2. Dry

• Signs: Tightness, flaking, rough texture, fine lines, dullness, irritation after washing.
• Care: Cream/oil cleanser, rich moisturizer (ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane), avoid alcohol/foaming agents, humidifier.

3. Combination (Most Common)

• Signs: Oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin); normal-to-dry cheeks.
• Care: Balanced cleanser; zone-treat (light gel on T-zone, cream on cheeks); multi-masking.

4. Sensitive

• Signs: Reacts to products/environment: stinging, redness, itching, burning. Barrier impaired.
• Care: Fragrance-free, minimal ingredients, barrier-repair (ceramides, centella, panthenol), patch test everything, mineral SPF only.

Pro Tip

Skin type can change with season, age, hormones, medications. Reassess quarterly. Dehydration ≠ dry type—any type can be dehydrated (water lack vs. oil lack).