- Normal/healthy skin – This skin is soft, moist and plump with no open pores.
- Dry skin – dry, tight, prone to wrinkles, poor skin tone
- Oily/Combination – Oily shine, open pores, coarse texture possible blackheads
- Acne – Oily with blackheads, papules, pustules. Often red and sensitized
- Sensitive – Thin, very fair, delicate, easily turns red from touch or heat.
Skin type is determined at birth. Skin conditions occur throughout our lives as a result of environmental damage, illness, medications, stress and other factors. Skin conditions include dehydration, aging, pigmentation, sensitization, rosacea, and others.
Sensitized skin is skin that has been rendered sensitive from medications or from conditions like rosacea, and it is treated with a sensitive skin regimen.
When you know your skin type and conditions, you can choose the skin care that will work best for you.
- read the labels for specific skin type recommendations
- Remember that better brands contain more active ingredients
- For Dry skin, choose ultra hydrating products, like Dermalogica Essential Cleansing Solution
- There are lots of options for normal skin. One of my favorites is MD Forte Facial Cleanser III. You can use it even if you have a slightly oily T-zone. Lots of great reviews on this cleanser.
- For Oily / Combination skin use products that clean thoroughly without stripping natural oils. I recommend Revision Skincare Alpha Cleanser.
- For mild to moderate acne, I’ve seen good reviews for Murad Clarifying cleanser. Of course, People with severe acne should consult a dermatologist.
- For Sensitive Skin (or sensitized skin), stay with products that are formulated for sensitive skin. My favorite is Dermalogica Ultra Calming cleanser.

