Understanding your skin is the first step to achieving a healthy, radiant complexion. With so many treatments and skincare products available today, knowing your skin type can help you make more informed choices. If you've ever wondered, "How do you know what type of skin you have?" this guide is for you.
Why identifying your skin type matters
Many people ask, "What type of skin do I have?" when they first start exploring skincare. Your skin is the body’s largest organ, and its needs can shift with age, environment and overall health. Using products that are not suitable for your skin can lead to irritation, breakouts or increased sensitivity. But when you know the type of skin you have and tailor your routine accordingly, you can support better skin health over time.
The five main skin types
There are generally five recognised skin types: normal, oily, dry, combination and sensitive. Let's take a closer look at each.
1. Normal skin
Normal skin feels balanced. It is neither too oily nor too dry and has a smooth, even texture. Pores are generally small and not easily visible. This type of skin rarely experiences breakouts or flakiness.
2. Oily skin
Oily skin produces excess sebum, particularly in the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin). It often appears shiny and may be more prone to breakouts or blackheads. Enlarged pores and a thicker-feeling skin texture are common.
3. Dry skin
Dry skin can feel tight or rough, especially after cleansing. It may flake or crack and can look dull. People with dry skin may have deeper-looking fine lines due to the lack of natural oil. Skin texture may feel uneven or coarse.
4. Combination skin
Combination skin shows traits of both oily and dry skin. Typically, the T-zone is oily, while the cheeks are dry or normal. This type of skin can be challenging as it requires products that balance both hydration and oil control.
5. Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is more reactive than other types. It may sting, burn or redden easily when using certain skincare or in response to environmental changes. This type of skin often needs gentle products free from fragrance, alcohol and other harsh ingredients.
How to know what type of skin you have
To determine your skin type, start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser and patting it dry. Wait about 30 minutes without applying any products. If your skin feels tight or looks flaky, you likely have dry skin. If it appears shiny, you may have oily skin. A combination of both — oily in some areas and dry in others — suggests combination skin. If your skin stings, itches or turns red easily, you may have sensitive skin.
While this can help you get a better idea of your skin type, it’s not a substitute for professional advice. If you’re dealing with persistent skin concerns or feel unsure about your skin type, a dermatologist can give you a more accurate assessment.
Recommended skincare products by skin type
Your skin type has a big impact on your skin texture — how your complexion feels to the touch. Ideally, it’s soft and even, but factors like ageing and sun damage or breakouts can cause it to feel rough, bumpy or uneven.
To improve texture, it's important to use products that match your skin type:
Oily skin benefits from lightweight, oil-free formulas with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to control shine and reduce breakouts.
Dry skin responds well to rich moisturisers and hydrating serums containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and nourishing oils.
Combination skin often needs a tailored routine that uses mattifying serums in oily zones and hydrating products on drier areas.
Sensitive skin benefits from calming, non-irritating formulas with ingredients like panthenol and allantoin to calm redness and discomfort.
To supplement your routine, professional skin treatments such as microneedling and LED therapy can help smooth and refine textured skin over time.
Take the next step to healthier skin with DermapenWorld
Now that you have a better understanding of the types of skin and how to know what skin type you are, the next step is taking action. Personalised skincare routines and advanced treatments can help you manage concerns related to skin texture or overall skin health.
Want help choosing the right products for your routine? Start with a free skin quiz to determine your unique needs. For treatment options, explore our Dermapen treatments for all skin types. Book a consultation for these treatments today or shop our range of skincare products online.
