Skin Type: The Most Important Factor in Your Skincare Routine
If you don't know your skin type, then you can't create an effective skincare regimen. I would've had clear skin a long time ago had I realized this one important fact. I have been living with psoriasis for over 20 years now. I shared most of my story in my last blog post so, if you have time, go back and read it for a little more background. Psoriasis has pretty much controlled my life since age 15 and it has been an ongoing battle to keep my skin clear. Often times, I am able to keep my face clear but my legs are really the biggest issue (insert eye roll emoji).
I was always prescribed steroidal creams by my dermatologists and told that I have various types of psoriasis. So, imagine my surprise when I relocate to Texas and am told by a new dermatologist that my condition looks more like seborrheic dermatitis. "What???? I have never been treated for that before," was my first thought after hearing the statement. However, as I began reading up on the skin condition, I soon realized that the dermatologist was most likely correct. This changed the whole ball game when it came to treating my skin because my body rashes were most indicative of psoriasis but my face was definitely seborrheic dermatitis.
Now, SD is the immune system's reaction to a type of yeast called Malassezia. In laymen's terms, the skin produces a yeast rash when in contact with excessive oils. This would strike the average person as strange since the skin rashes that occur are very dry, flaky patches. Most people would think to put more oil on the flakiness to prevent further dryness. This would be totally contrary to the solution though. Therefore, it is very important to know your skin type and conditions because what may appear to be an easy solution might actually worsen your skin problem. Knowing your skin condition and how it works can be a long drawn out process of extensive research taking you down one rabbit hole after another. Luckily for you, Go Nude Skincare has rid you of that task by doing the research for you.
We have come to the conclusion that first, we must encourage our customers to get to know their skin. If needed, go to the dermatologist and ask plenty of questions. Of course, we are a natural skincare company that literally discourages long term steroidal use due to the long term harmful effects, but a dermatologist visit is still encouraged to receive medical advice on your skin condition, if applicable.Â
Once you are educated about your skin type, then we can begin to develop an effective skincare regimen that will solve your problems naturally. You can't treat oily skin the way you would treat dry skin and you can't treat acne the same way you would treat combination skin. We are constantly researching and developing new skincare products that will tackle all skincare issues one step at a time.
Caring for our skin is a process that must be met with patience and a stress free mindset. Natural alternatives take time to yield results much to the contrary of its synthetically created counterparts. This is something that we as naturalists already know. However, we can speed up the process by taking the time to know our skin better. Only then can we make better informed decisions on the solutions that are needed.
Antionette Crutcher
When it comes to skincare, knowing your skin type is crucial. Your skin type can significantly impact how products react to your skin and, therefore, how effective they are. Without this knowledge, you might waste time and money on products that don't work for you. So, let's delve into why understanding your skin type is essential and how it can help you formulate the perfect skincare routine.
Different skin types include oily, dry, combination, sensitive, and normal. Each type has unique characteristics and needs which require specific attention. For instance, using a product that works wonders for oily skin could exacerbate issues if you have dry skin. Similarly, products for sensitive skin are formulated to be gentle and non-irritating and which might not suffice for more resilient skin types. So, identifying your skin type allows you to choose products that will be most beneficial to you.
Oily skin produces excess sebum, leading to shine and potential breakouts. People with oily skin should look for lightweight, non-comedogenic products that won't clog pores. A good skincare routine for oily skin typically includes gentle cleansers, exfoliants, and oil-free moisturizers to balance oil levels without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.
On the other hand, dry skin lacks enough sebum, causing flakiness and a tight feeling. This skin type needs rich, hydrating products to restore moisture. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are excellent for dry skin as they attract and hold water in the skin. Avoiding harsh cleansers and using hydrating serums and thick moisturizers can greatly benefit dry skin.
Combination skin is a mix of oily and dry areas, often oily in the T-zone and dry elsewhere. This type requires a balancing act and and it's essential to address different face areas with appropriate products. Using a gentle cleanser, applying hydrating serums to dry areas, and controlling oil in the T-zone with mattifying products can help manage combination skin effectively.
For sensitive skin, the focus is on soothing and reducing irritation. This skin type reacts quickly to environmental factors and certain ingredients, so a gentle and minimalistic approach is best. Look for products with calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and oatmeal. Avoid fragrances, parabens, and alcohol to prevent flare-ups. A simple routine with a gentle cleanser, soothing serum, and a lightweight moisturizer can keep sensitive skin calm and balanced.
Normal skin is balanced and not too oily or dry but still needs a proper skincare routine to maintain its health. Products should support its natural balance and protect from external factors. Gentle cleansers, hydrating serums, and sunscreens are ideal for normal skin.
Knowing your skin type also helps you understand which ingredients to look for and avoid. For example, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can be effective for oily and acne-prone skin but might be too harsh for dry or sensitive types. Conversely, oils like coconut oil are great for dry skin but can clog pores in oily skin types. This targeted approach prevents adverse reactions and ensures you get the most out of your skincare products.
Furthermore, seasons can affect your skin type. Your skin might feel oilier in the summer due to increased humidity and and but drier in the winter because of cold air and indoor heating. Being aware of these changes can help you adjust your routine accordingly.
In conclusion, understanding your skin type is the cornerstone of a successful skincare routine. It helps you choose the right products, avoid adverse reactions, and adjust your routine to seasonal changes. By tailoring your skincare to your specific needs, you'll achieve healthier, more radiant skin. So start by identifying your skin type and build a routine that works for you.