You know what they say: Knowledge is power. This is also true when it comes to taking care of your skin! The best way to do that is to know what your skin type is, because all five have different needs and therefore require different approaches and strategies, like what cleanser to use. Read on to figure out which one is yours and learn how to care for it.
Dry skin
You’ll know you have this if you are constantly fighting dry flakes and rough texture and your skin feels tight and uncomfortable. It’s because your skin isn’t producing enough lipids and the condition of your skin can become worse if dry air, cold weather or harsh soaps are involved. Use a gentle hydrating cleanser and then a hydrating serum, like La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Serum; next, apply a thick moisturizer, such as La Roche-Posay Nutritic Intense Riche. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and glycerin. Avoid using hot water to wash your face, and keep a humidifier in your room during the cold winter months to combat the dry air from artificial heating systems.
Oily/acne-prone skin
In contrast, oily skin produces excess sebum, which typically leads to blackheads and whiteheads on the nose, forehead and chin. The oil can also increase the appearance of your pores, and your face might appear shiny and greasy. Though your instinct might be to strip away the oil with strong products, your skin will respond by producing more oil. Choose products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic and ingredients like salicylic acid. After cleansing with a gentle, oil-free face wash, like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Gel, apply an acne treatment and moisturizer in one, such as Effaclar Duo Global Acne Treatment. For adults experiencing acne-prone skin, considering adding in a serum between cleansing and treating, such as our Effaclar Ultra Concentrated Serum, formulated for both signs of aging and acne-prone skin.
Combination skin
This is when you have an oily T-zone but dry or normal cheeks. To avoid breakouts, use a lightweight moisturizer, like La Roche-Posay Hydraphase HA Light Face Cream, or one that addresses acne, like Effaclar Duo Global Acne Treatment. Another option for combination sensitive skin is to try Toleriane Sensitive Fluid. It is an extremely gentle moisturizer that’s safe for even the most sensitive skin types.
Normal skin
If you have this, lucky you! Your skin isn’t too oily or too dry. You don’t often have breakouts or excess dryness and rarely experience sensitivity. Keep your skin healthy and balanced with an antioxidant like vitamin C in products like La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Anti-Aging Serum. And a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate like La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Anti-Aging Cream is your ally.
Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is a condition rather than a type, and it can affect all skin types. Typically, it is skin that reacts to products by stinging or burning and that is prone to redness, flaking and itching. For sensitive skin, a simple and gentle routine is best. You want products that are ultra-calming, like a gentle cleanser and a repairing moisturizer that immediately soothes, like La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Cream. The Toleriane Dermallergo serum is an excellent option for sensitive skin as the recommended serum for day and night.