Monday, August 13, 2012

Skin Care Series: Skin Types and Care

Let's Talk Skincare:



Skin Types and Care


What is the T-Zone area? 

T-zone area (forehead, nose and chin)


Disclaimer:
I am an Esthetician; licensed skincare specialist. I am not a dermatologist.  The information contained in the Skin Care Series sections of this blog are personal tips and information I obtained through school and through experience working with persons of different skin types.  These guides and tips are intended for use as a basic skincare guide only. 
Caring for your skin should be just as important as caring for your heart, lungs and other vital organs.  If you are experiencing a serious skin disorder or abnormalities of the skin, you should seek the aid and treatment of a licensed dermatologist immediately. 



Ok.....On to Skin Types and Care....






Normal Skin


Analysis
   
q        *  Smooth, even skin texture
q      * Comfortable feeling
q        * Cheeks may be dry, but nothing excessive
q        * May experience some shine and larger pores on T-zone area
q        * Water and oil content are in balance

Caring for Normal Skin

Cleanse the skin at least once a day with a cleanser formulated for the face, exfoliate 1-2 times per week in place of your daily cleanser, moisturize the skin using a lightweight lotion and use sunscreen to keep the skin healthy and prevent damage. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating healthy and drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.




Dry Skin


Analysis

q       * Skin is tight after washing
q       * Skin looks dry or flaky
q       * Feels rough and uneven to the touch
q       * Skin appears dehydrated
q       * May be sensitive
q       * Small pores
q       * Shows fine lines faster than other skin types

Caring for Dry Skin

Cleanse the skin at least once a day with a rich cleanser formulated for dry skin.  Moisture and hydration are essential needs of persons with dry skin.  A light-weight face oil is a good start, if that is not enough, try layering a rich cream moisturizer over the oil.  Layering different textures can do wonders for dry skin. Apply night cream before going to bed. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating a healthy diet loaded with foods high in water content (fruits, veggies) and drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.  Dry Skin tips: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, caffeine and alcohol as much as possible.





Oily Skin


Analysis

       * Skin is shiny, especially at the T-zone area
q        * Pores may be large and visible
q        * Frequent Breakouts
q        * Few to no signs of aging or fine lines

 
Caring for Oily Skin

Cleanse the skin at least twice a day to avoid dirt accumulation and to keep pores open.  After you’ve cleansed the face, use an alcohol-free toner or astringent to help further remove excess oil.  Use an oil-free moisturizer to keep the skin from over-drying. Oily skin management requires a healthy diet, exercise, proper hydration and maintaining a regular skincare routine to aid in the prevention of breakouts.








Combination Skin

 Analysis

q        * Larger pores on your forehead, nose and chin
q        * Oily T-Zone area
q        * Dry Cheeks
q        * Spot Dehydration

Caring for Combination Skin

Cleanse the skin at least once a day with a mild cleanser formulated for the face; you may follow the skincare “caring” tips for a person with normal skin.  Your regular routine should focus on cleansing, toning and moisturizing the oily areas while applying a dense moisturizer to the dry areas.  Persons with combination skin will benefit mostly by using moisturizing products containing AHA.  Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating healthy and drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.

Sensitive Skin


Analysis

q        * Skin may range from dry to oily
q        * Itchy or Blotchy
q        * Skin is easily irritated by cosmetics, moisturizers and cleansers
q        * Sensitivity and prone to redness

Caring for Sensitive Skin

Use cleansers and moisturizers specifically formulated for sensitive skin.  (mild, non-perfumed products) An alcohol free toner formulated for sensitive skin should be used as a pre-cleaner or after you’ve cleansed your face. 
Cleanse the skin at least once a day with a cleanser formulated for the face, exfoliate 1-2 times per week in place of your daily cleanser, moisturize the skin using a lightweight lotion and use sunscreen to keep the skin healthy and prevent damage. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating healthy and drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.





Life Happens


Don’t be fooled by misleading skin conditions.  Keep in mind that certain lifestyle factors (hormonal changes, stress) can alter the appearance of the skin and cause a false analysis.  In addition to these lifestyle factors, many other things can cause a misleading skin analysis like changes in the environment, your health, diet and certain products or makeup you’re currently using.

Certain medical conditions and medications can cause the skin to become red, dry or flaky.  Overusing any skincare product can cause the skin to become oily, dry or flaky, for example, if a person with dry skin overuses their moisturizer, their skin can appear greasy.  A person with sensitive skin can further irritate their skin and cause redness by using skincare products that are too strong or cheap. 

 Keep these factors in mind when analyzing and choosing products for your skin. 


 





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