Are you confusing the two?
We all have a skin type. It is genetically predisposed, but we don’t all have a skin condition. Did you know you can have dry skin (type) and still experience acne (condition). This can get a little confusing but I'm here to help clear this up.
Skin Type
There are 5 major skin types - dry, combination, oily, normal, and sensitive. It is determined by the oil/water balance in the skin and it is determined at birth (sorry, you’re born with it). So what do each of the types look and feel like?
Dry
Tight feel
Very small pores
Rough texture
Occasional flakiness
Dull look
Prone to dehydration and premature aging
Combination
Medium-sized pores in some areas transitioning to smaller pores in other areas
Occasional blemishes
Experiences look and feel of both dry and oily skin types
Oily
Large pores
Shiny look
Greasy feel
Occasional blemishes
Prone to acne
Normal
Occasional blemish
Even skin tone
Supple
Smooth texture
Sensitive
This is both a type and a condition. I will describe it as a type here.
Redness
Reactive
Warm to the touch
Skin types need to be balanced. This means your daily skincare regimen should balance water and oil levels of the skin. Your treatment plan should be monthly facials to purge, nourish, and protect your skin.
Skin Conditions
Conditions of the skin are “problems” that the skin experiences. For example, acne and dehydration are conditions. Here is a list of conditions I see most often in my treatment room:
Dehydration - lack of water
Acne - constant breakouts
Hyperpigmentation - dark spots, uneven complexion
Aging - fine lines and wrinkles
Sensitive - irritated, redness
These are the most common conditions I work with; however, the list could go on forever. Your daily regimen should consist of products designed to balance your skin type and treat the condition (think serums). You will also want a curated treatment plan to address the condition. Your esthetician may recommend weekly, biweekly, or monthly facials and may suggest seeing a dermatologist depending on the severity of the condition. Also, please keep in mind treating conditions takes time. You aren’t going to see results overnight.
I hope you enjoy your holiday this week!
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