Be comfortable in your skin
I thought it would be helpful to explore the various skin types. We will only be going "light touch" this time, but exploring this in more detail in future months.
So, let's look at the characteristics of the different types, so you can identify which one you have...
Normal/combination skin
If you have this type of skin you don't generally experience problems. Combination skin usually means an oily T zone with some shine on the nose, forehead and chin, although mostly the nose. You don't tend to react to most products, experience spots, dry patches etc.
However, don't fall into the trap of assuming you don't need to care for your skin just because it doesn't give you any problems! You can't always be guaranteed normal skin, as it can change in future years, so treat it with respect whilst enjoying the joy of having fab skin!
Dry skin
As we mature this is the most common skin type. You can experience all over dryness, or areas of your skin such as cheeks. Skin can feel tight after washing, and even sore. At its most pronounced you can have dry, flaky skin.
To avoid the tightness choose a gentle cleanser and consider going for a milk that you wipe off with cotton wool rather than a rinse off one. Exfoliate with a gentle exfoliant to remove any loose dry skin. Choose products specifically designed for dry skin.
Oily skin
This is characterised by shiny areas and, in some cases, spots. Sometimes it is just about the appearance of the skin, but equally you can experience some soreness and irritation.
Don't be tempted to go for the problem skin ranges designed for teenagers, these will be far too harsh. And also don't assume because you have oily skin you don't need to moisturise - because you definitely do.
Again, choose products designed for your skin type. Oh - and the good news? Oily skins tend to have less lines, so you look younger for longer!
Sensitive skin
You can have another skin type such as dry or oily skin, and still be sensitive, or it may be more normal. Sensitive skin can mean it reacts to a number of different products with anything from feeling hot to the point of almost burning, or very itchy and inflamed. You can also find your skin reacts to things such as very spicy food, extremes of weather and so on.
The challenge is that each person's skin is individual, so ingredients that one person finds don't work for them may be just fine for somebody else. In general, opt for products designed for sensitive skins as they tend to be much more gentle. Be light of touch, and try very hard not to scratch when your skin itches - it just exacerbates the problem.
That covers off the main skin types, but there are also a few others you may recognise:
Rosacea
This is characterised by red areas of skin, particularly cheeks and nose, but can also be forehead and chin. It usually starts off almost like blushing but becomes permanently red over time. You can get tiny broken capillaries, and even small outbreaks - bumps under the skin. Whilst it isn't clear what the cause is, there are definitely things that can make it worse including spicy food, alcohol and caffeine. You will need to try and determine what makes your condition worse.
Like sensitive skin you should be gentle and use similar products. Be sure to use a good SPF at all times to protect your skin from the sun. If this flares up badly, you should visit your GP for additional advice. Some clients have reported good results from laser treatment, but please only visit a reputable salon for this treatment.
Contact Dermatitis
This tends to be a temporary condition that flares up due to certain accelerants - commonly make up, skin care products, shampoo, or chemicals found within certain jobs. Symptoms include very dry, scaly patches that can become inflamed, thickened and crack.
You need to try and identify the cause and then take steps to stop using the product or avoid where possible. Treatment can usually be purchased from the pharmacy and is a thick emollient type cream to re-moisturise the skin. If it becomes infected you must visit the GP for a course of antibiotics.
Acne
Whilst we associate this condition with teenagers who are suffering with hormone imbalances, this can flare up again in more mature women particularly when going through the menopause - another life stage where hormones rage.
Again, like oily skin, do not use harsh skin products, but something suitable for your age and skin type. Avoid extremes of water temperature and use lukewarm water for washing your face. Be sure to remove all of your make up before bed, and use a moisturiser every day. Try to avoid touching your skin all the time.
Clearly, this is a huge subject, and one we will need to explore in more detail. Next year we are going to look at some of these skin types in more detail and I will make more recommendations of how you can best look after your skin.