Radiant skin is not just mere aesthetics. It mirrors your holistic well-being. Every skin type reacts differently to each skin active, what works like a charm for one person could wreak havoc on another’s skin. Picture your skincare as a custom-made suit; it fits better when tailored to your unique needs. Understanding your skin type is the cornerstone for radiant skin, nourishing it with the right products is like finding that perfect suit. So, let’s delve into the individual needs of various skin types to help you achieve the healthy, radiant skin you’ve always desired.
Normal skin: The All-Star
Aka ‘eudermic skin’, is a well-balanced skin type that tends to have just the right amount of sebum production. Sebum is that oily substance produced by your skin that helps lock in moisture and maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Normal skin is the “Goldilocks” of skin types: not too oily, not too dry. It has:
- Barely visible pores
- A smooth texture.
- Zero or few blemishes.
- Low sensitivity
If you happen to be the envy of many and blessed with normal skin, don’t confuse it with ‘maintenance-free’ skin. Even this seemingly perfect skin type faces the inevitable reality of ageing. What can help?
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen:
No matter your age you need an SPF of at least 30 that protects against UVA and UVB. It’s your armour against the skin-ageing villains like harmful UV rays.
Antioxidants:
Incorporate heroes like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A (retinol), Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Resveratrol, CoQ10 into your regimen. They are your skin’s bodyguards against ageing, they combat the damage inflicted by free radicals and help the skin repair itself and achieve radiant skin.
Alpha Hydroxy acids (AHAs):
Lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, mandelic acid, citric acid and most especially glycolic acid, promote collagen production and are also effective in minimising visible signs of ageing like fine lines, crepey skin and wrinkles.
Best picks: Nivea Super Water Gel SPF 50, Isispharma Geneskin C Premium, Neutrogena Skin Perfecting Liquid Face Exfoliant.
Dry Skin: The Thirsty One
Is a skin type that produces less sebum than normal, is lacking in natural moisturising factors like urea, amino acids and lactic acid (that help to bind in water) and also lacking in Ceramides that help maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Dry skin feels as parched as a desert and is crying out for hydration. It appears as
- Tight, brittle, rough and dull skin
- Scaly or flaky skin with patches
- Possibly itchy skin
- More sensitive to irritation, redness and the risk of infection
Due to the compromised nature of the skin barrier function typical of dry skin, your skin needs would include ingredients and products that help attract moisture, trap moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. Such as
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen:
Again, at least SPF 30 is your go-to. Dry skin is already vulnerable; the last thing it needs is UV damage.
Triple-action Moisturisers:
Containing Humectants e.g., glycerin, hyaluronic acid, urea, lactic acid, that draw water (hydration) into the skin. Emollients e.g., squalene, shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, that add oil to the skin and help prevent moisture loss. Occlusives e.g., petrolatum (Vaseline), lanolin, dimethicone, that create a barrier over the skin and help seal in moisture and hydration.
Barrier builders:
Products with Ceramides will lock in hydration and maintain the integrity of your skin barrier, keeping irritants at bay.
Best picks: Bioderma Photoderm Lait Ultra SPF 50, elta MD Barrier Renewal Complex, Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturiser.
Oily Skin: The Overachiever
This skin type is sebum-central, mainly due to genetics and hormonal imbalances. Oily skin has its perks like fewer wrinkles but also has its downsides such as acne. It has:
- More visible pores
- A shiny or greasy appearance.
Due to the excessive sebum production found in oily skin types and the fact that they are usually acne-prone, oily skin needs would include ingredients and products that help mop up sebum, unclog pores and have antibacterial and/or anti-inflammatory properties. Such as
Matte-Finish Sunscreen:
Go for an oil-free, gel-based sunscreen with Zinc oxide that douses inflammation and has antibacterial properties.
Antioxidants:
Incorporate blemish battlers like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Vitamin A (retinol), Resveratrol, CoQ10, for their added anti-inflammatory magic.
Acid Blend:
AHAs and BHAs (like salicylic acid) can be your best friends. They clean house in your pores and absorb excess sebum.
Lightweight Moisturiser:
Ceramide-rich and non-greasy. Ceramide deficiency in the skin contributes to skin barrier dysfunction which is directly tied to follicular hyper-keratinisation (abnormally rapid shedding of skin cells) that leads to clogged pores.
Best picks: Medix 5.5 10% Glycolic Acid + Lactic Acid Overnight Exfoliating Face Peel, elta MD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46, Cerave Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel, TruSkin Vitamin C Super Serum+.
Combination Skin: The Balancing Act
Basically, your skin playing mix-and-match, oily skin type at the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and normal to dry skin types everywhere else. You’ll notice:
- Shiny appearance in T-zone
- Acne-breakouts in T-zone
- Drier skin on the cheeks
What’s the strategy here? Choose products that multi-task, products used should strike a balance between suitability for oily skin and being suitable to dry skin as well. Such as
Milder AHAs:
Mandelic acid with its larger molecular size is less sensitising and offers gentle exfoliation. Lactic acid because it offers hydrating benefits as well.
Lightweight Moisturiser:
Water-based or gel-based moisturisers can keep your skin quenched without making it greasy.
Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen:
Choose a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen with a semi-matte finish.
Smart Antioxidants:
Opt for gentle antioxidants like Vitamin E, Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Resveratrol, CoQ10 and less irritating forms of Vitamin C like magnesium ascorbyl phosphate.
Best picks: Bioderma Photoderm Aquafluide SPF 50, Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid Liquid Exfoliant, Reviva Labs Skin Smoothing Antioxidant Day Crème, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel.
Sensitive Skin: The Delicate Flower
Your skin takes offence easily due to a fragile skin barrier or an overactive immune system. Showing its displeasure through:
- Inflamed skin (blotchy with redness)
- Itchy skin
- Skin prone to rashes or peeling
How can you keep it calm, with products free from any of the commonly known allergens like fragrance, alcohol, dyes, lanolin, paraben and formaldehyde releasers. These products should also have ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties that support the skin barrier. Such as
Mineral-based Sunscreen:
Opt for hypoallergenic formulas with a lightweight texture.
Antioxidants:
Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Vitamin E and Resveratrol are your go-to for sensitive skin for their anti-inflammatory actions.
Soothing Moisturisers:
Think ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, hyaluronic acid and shea butter.
Your skin is a reflection of your lifestyle. Hence, it’s not just what you apply on your skin that gives radiant skin but also what you consume that counts. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, and don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep.
Best picks: Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer, Olay Renegerist Mineral Sunscreen, Minimalist Niacinamide 10%.
How to Achieve Radiant Skin
Irrespective of your skin type, developing a sound skincare routine is pivotal. This involves a consistent morning and nighttime regimen that incorporates all the critical steps, from cleansing to moisturising. Remember, your skin is as unique as you are. Once you decode its unique needs, you can build a skincare routine that works for you, not against you. Use products that cater specifically to your skin type’s needs. Your skin’s needs could change with the weather, stress levels, and age so be willing to adapt your routine accordingly. Introduce new products gradually and always do a patch test to avoid adverse reactions. While self-care is empowering, consulting a dermatologist or aesthetician can provide you with a more personalised and effective skincare regimen. By following these tips and continually adapting to your skin’s needs, you’re well on your way to experiencing healthy, radiant skin every day. In this ever-evolving journey of skincare, remember to stay informed, stay consistent, and above all, stay kind to your skin.
