Our skin is the wrapper that protects us from the world. It is also a major part of the “face” that we show to the world. Our health and vitality, or lack of it, are displayed in our skin.
The cosmetics industry is a multi-billion dollar one. Although it often gets a bad rap for the way it promotes its products, there is no doubt that their success is largely consumer-driven.

We care about our appearance, and our skin is a big part of that appearance. In caring for our skin, there is certainly an indulgent, rewarding feeling of self-care when we apply products to our skin that we know, or believe, is adding to its health and beauty.

Skin health and beauty starts within. A fortune spent on beauty products will not make up for self-abuse through poor diet and lifestyle choices.

Research has determined that there are four broad skin types. While there are many factors relating to skin health that are common to all, there are also many aspects that are particular to the specific skin type.

This report discusses general skin health and care, and gives guidance on caring for each of the skin types. You’ll learn how to recognize your skin type and how to care for it, to help your skin be the very best it can be .

Do You Know Your Skin Type?

To find out if your skin type is normal, simply blot your face in the morning with a clean tissue. There should be no oil (sebum) on the tissue if your skin is normal and has good circulation.

If any oil is present on most areas, you may have an oily skin type.

If there is no oil on the cheek areas, but oil is present on the nose and forehead (the T-section) then your skin type is a combination of both normal and oily. Combination skin types are more common and are characterized by the “T” zone.

If there is no oil at all, and the indicators are of dry, itchy skin, or scaly skin and noticeable lack of elasticity, then your skin is of course dry.
Your skin type will likely change over time too. When you’re a teenager you may be plagued with oily skin that breaks out periodically in pimples or acne. The older you become, the less able your skin may be able to both produce oil and retain moisture.

Water is an important factor in the care of the skin and it affects the elasticity and comfort of the skin. Oiliness can make the skin softer, but can cause other problems, especially if produced in excess.

You are very lucky if you’re blessed with a normal skin type. You’ll usually notice fewer imperfections and will likely have a radiant and easy to care for complexion.