Not sure what your skin really needs? Understanding your skin type is the first step to choosing skincare that actually works.
We’ve all tried a highly recommended product and wondered why it didn’t deliver the results we hoped for. More often than not, it isn’t the formula — it’s the fact that the product wasn’t aligned with our skin’s true needs.
Understanding your skin type gives you a solid foundation for building a routine that supports healthy, balanced skin.
Skin Type vs Skin Concern – What’s the Difference?
Your skin type is your baseline. It generally stays consistent and falls into one of five categories: oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or normal.
Your skin concern, however, is what your skin is experiencing right now — and it can change with the seasons, lifestyle, stress, hormones, or age.
For example:
- Oily skin can still be dehydrated
- Dry skin can also be sensitive
- Normal skin can experience seasonal dryness
This is why understanding both your skin type and your current skin concern is key to choosing the right skincare.
How to Know Your Skin Type
Most people fall into one of the following five categories. Here’s how to recognise yours.
OILY SKIN
Oily skin produces excess sebum, which often leads to a noticeable shine across the forehead, nose, and chin.
Common signs:
- Excessive shine
- Visibly enlarged pores
- Frequent blemishes
A common mistake: Using harsh cleansers to “strip” oil can actually encourage the skin to produce even more oil.
DRY SKIN
Dry skin occurs when moisture is lost too quickly. This can be influenced by climate, age, hot water, or unsuitable products.
Common signs:
- Rough or uneven patches
- A tight or uncomfortable feeling
- Flaking or peeling
What often makes it worse: Over‑exfoliation and hot showers can further weaken the skin barrier.
COMBINATION SKIN
Combination skin typically shows oiliness through the T‑zone, with dryness around the cheeks or jawline.
Common signs:
- A mix of oily and dry areas
- Tightness in some places
- Changes with the seasons
This skin type benefits from balanced care rather than treating the whole face the same way.
SENSITIVE SKIN
Sensitive skin tends to react more easily to internal and external triggers.
Common signs:
- Irritation or redness
- Burning or tingling sensations
- Dryness or discomfort
Supporting the skin barrier and keeping routines simple is often key.
NORMAL SKIN
Normal skin is well‑balanced and comfortable, without excessive oiliness or dryness.
Common signs:
- Clear, even appearance
- Minimal sensitivity
- Responds well to gentle products
Even balanced skin can experience temporary concerns due to seasonal or environmental changes.
How to Determine Your Skin Type at Home
Once you’re familiar with the characteristics, these simple at‑home methods can help confirm your skin type.
Observe Your Skin After Cleansing
Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and leave your skin bare for around 30 minutes.
- Tight or dry all over may indicate dry skin
- Shine across most areas may indicate oily skin
- A mix of both suggests combination skin
- Calm and comfortable skin often points to a normal type
The Blot Test
Press a tissue or blotting paper gently onto your forehead, nose, and cheeks.
- Oil across most of the tissue suggests oily skin
- Little to no oil suggests dry skin
- Oil in some areas but not others suggests combination skin
- A slight trace of oil with balance suggests normal skin
Why Your Skin Can Feel Different in Winter
Cold temperatures, indoor heating, and reduced humidity can affect every skin type. Even oily or normal skin may feel tighter or more dehydrated during winter months.
This is completely normal — and it’s why reassessing your skin regularly is so important.
What to Focus on for Your Skin Type
- Dry skin: Hydration, nourishment, and barrier support
- Oily skin: Balance oil without stripping moisture
- Combination skin: Target different areas appropriately
- Sensitive skin: Calm, protect, and strengthen the barrier
- Normal skin: Maintain balance and protect against environmental stress
Your Next Step
Now that you understand your skin type, the next step is identifying what your skin needs right now.
👉 Explore our Face & Body collections By Skin Concern here to discover targeted solutions designed to support your skin through every season and stage.
