Guest Post written By Micheala Connolly
Not everyone is fortunate to have the almighty normal skin type. So many dry and oily skin sufferers are usually at their wits end when it comes to establishing a normal skin cleansing regime. If you’re struggling to determine your skin type or simply looking for a few tips on maintaining healthy skin then continue reading on. If you require any further information about general skin matters, then please click here.
Determining your skin type
If you are unsure of your skin type it is advisable to visit a dermatologist. If you’re a bit short on cash and would like to determine your skin type yourself, here’s how you can do it:
- Does your skin feel tight after washing/showering? If you apply a tissue to your face (for a blot test) does it still appear dry? Do you often find that areas around your face flake? Including your nose, cheeks and forehead? If you have answered yes to all of these then it seems likely that you have dry skin. Dry skin is more prone to aging effects.
- Does your skin produce frequent blackheads/whiteheads? Does it look shiny in areas such as the nose, t-zone and chin? If you carry out the blot test does it pick up a lot of moisture? If you have answered yes to all of these then it seems likely that you have oily skin. Oily skin is more prone to contain blemishes.
Tips for Controlling Dry Skin
- Avoid hot showers– hot water dries up the natural oils found in the skin. You will often find that having a hot shower will make your dry skin feel tight and uncomfortable. Warm and short showers are best for those with this skin type.
- Moisturise daily – investing in a quality raw virgin coconut oil or a rich water based moisturiser, designed for those with dry skin, is ideal for maintaining soft and supple skin. It is best to apply the moisturiser only to the areas affected; this usually includes the t-zone (forehead, nose, & chin) and the areas around the eyebrows. Too much moisturiser will only make the skin appear greasy.
- Avoid harsh soaps/cleansers- make sure that you purchase cleansers and soaps that are ideal for sensitive/dry skin. Remember that over scrubbing of the skin makes it much worse, not only does it remove the natural oils found there but it increases irritation. This will likely increase bouts of dry skin.
- Shave properly – it is extremely important that both men and women use clean razors with a sensitive gel bar to avoid skin rashes/dry skin irritation. Furthermore, a shave gel should always be used to add extra moisture to the skin when the pores are opened in the shower.
- Protect the skin – applying an SPF sunscreen will protect the skin from burning and therefore drying out, particularly in the summer months. This is important as dry skin results in premature aging. UV radiation is a huge contributor to skin cancer and causes the skin to appear old and haggard in excess.
Tips for Controlling Oily Skin
- Use a toner – the aim of a toner is to lower the skins PH. In this instance, it should only be the extremely oily skin sufferers who incorporate this into their routine.
- Don’t use too much moisturiser – remember that your oily skin means that you don’t have to moisturise dry skin. Many oily skin people find that they only need to apply a small amount of oil-free moisturiser on problem dry areas for example.
- Use clay masks – use a clay mask once a week to ensure your skin is cleansed properly in a very gentle way. These masks are great for getting rid of excess dirt, skin cells and even more importantly – oil.
- Exfoliate – one of the causes of acne breakouts its excess dirt found within the skin. The purpose of exfoliation is to remove dead skin cells and thoroughly clean the skin. Oily skinned people should take great care when exfoliating, although it is often beneficial, it can also lead to the development of further acne breakouts.
Avoid microdermabrasion – purchasing spa treatments are great for relaxation but I’d say that’s as far as they go! Microdermabrasion will leave your skin feeling soft for the first few days (if you’re lucky) but many women experience acne breakouts shortly after, especially if they have oily skin.
Author Bio
Hi, my name is Micheala and I love writing articles about skin health. I think it’s important that we look after our skin, especially in today’s current climate! All those free radicals and excessive UV rays can’t be good for us. I like to provide advice for both men and women regarding skin conditions, treatments and pay particular attention to natural remedies. For more information please visit my site at: http://www.dermatologist.org.uk/do-you-need-a-dermatologist.html
