Understanding your skin type to choose the right skincare routine

The foundation of a good facial skincare routine isn’t the number of products you use or their brand, it’s about selecting products that truly meet your skin’s needs. You’ve probably already noticed that your skin loves certain products, while others just don’t seem to work at all. This is likely due to what we call your “skin type,” which is part of your skin cells’ unique signature and something you need to learn to work with. Let’s demystify skin types together and explore how to use this knowledge to choose facial skincare products that will work wonders for you!

Why knowing your skin type matters

Many people rely solely on cosmetic marketing trends when choosing their skincare products. While these can certainly be a source of inspiration, it’s essential to always select products that suit your skin’s specific needs. Doing so helps prevent skin reactions that may result from a poor match between an ingredient and your skin type.

Understanding your skin type is key to knowing what it need, and what it doesn’t. Your skin type is, in a way, your skin’s user manual: use it to guide your cosmetic purchases!

Getting familiar with skin types to identify your own

Your skin’s specific needs are generally determined by the “type” of skin you have. Skin types are classified into four main categories, based on visual appearance, how the skin feels to the touch, and the level of sebum it produces.

The different skin types are:

Normal skin

Sebum production is balanced. There is little shine or tightness, pores are not enlarged, and imperfections are generally minimal. The texture and appearance of the various areas of the face are uniform.

Dry skin

The skin lacks lipids, meaning its natural sebum production is low, giving it a more matte appearance. The skin may feel tight and uncomfortable, as though it’s too tight on the face. Flaking may appear in areas where dryness is more pronounced, often on the cheeks.

Oily skin 

Sebum production is higher, resulting in shinier skin. Pores may appear larger and can become clogged, which may lead to blackheads and acne.

Combination skin  

This skin type is a mix of two categories: the cheeks are normal or dry, while the T-zone (chin, nose, and forehead) is oily. There are skincare products specifically designed for combination skin. Alternatively, it’s possible to use products for dry skin and oily skin, but only on the areas of the face they are intended for.

Not sure how to determine your skin type? The best approach is to observe your face 30 minutes after cleansing, without applying any products. Do you notice enlarged pores, flaking, a tight sensation, or shine? These clues will help you understand your skin’s needs, and therefore its type.

Understanding different skin conditions and changing needs

In addition to skin type, which describes your skin’s basic overall state, your skin can also experience different conditions that change with the seasons, age, and hormonal fluctuations. For example, during winter, it’s common for skin to become dehydrated (lacking water), giving it the appearance of dry skin. If you’ve recently started a new medication, your skin may become more sensitive and reactive. Hormonal changes during adolescence or throughout the menstrual cycle can also lead to acne.

All of these skin conditions can appear temporarily, regardless of your underlying skin type. It’s important to distinguish between your skin type and its changing conditions in order to choose the most appropriate facial skincare products.

Getting dermatological advice for an optimal skincare routine

During your next visit to a Familiprix pharmacy, don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice, they can help answer your dermatological questions.

In addition, you can also consult our Guides dermato. Available in selected Familiprix pharmacies in the cosmetics and dermocosmetics section, these specialists have in-depth training and a strong understanding of skincare myths and realities. They can recommend the best products to suit your skin’s needs. Questions about redness, skin aging, or acne? They’re there to support your skin health and assist pharmacists when more persistent skin concerns arise.

Don’t hesitate to turn to these experts to help you build a skincare routine that will leave your skin feeling just as happy as it is radiant!