What’s My Skin Type? A Complete Guide to Oily, Dry, Combination & Sensitive Skin

Understanding your skin type is the essential first step to building a skincare routine that truly works. Whether you're new to skincare or looking to optimize your regimen, identifying your skin type helps you choose the right products and avoid irritation or imbalance.

Let’s explore the four most common skin types — and how to care for each.

Oily Skin

Characteristics:

• Shiny appearance, especially in the T-zone

• Enlarged pores

• Frequent breakouts and blackheads

Tips for Care:

• Use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers

• Cleanse twice daily with a gentle foaming cleanser

• Look for ingredients like niacinamide and salicylic acid

Dry Skin

Characteristics:

• Tightness and flakiness

• Dull or rough texture

• Increased sensitivity and redness

Tips for Care:

• Opt for rich, emollient creams with ceramides or hyaluronic acid

• Avoid alcohol-based toners

• Use a humidifier during dry seasons

Combination Skin

Characteristics:

• Oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) with dry or normal cheeks

• Occasional breakouts and dryness

Tips for Care:

• Use gel-based products on the T-zone and cream-based on dry areas

• Focus on balancing, not stripping the skin

• Layer lightweight serums that target different needs

Sensitive Skin

Characteristics:

• Prone to redness, stinging, or irritation

• Reacts easily to new products or environmental changes

Tips for Care:

• Patch test new products

• Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas

• Incorporate calming ingredients like Centella Asiatica (Cica), green tea, or aloe

How to Determine Your Skin Type

1. Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry.

2. Wait 1 hour without applying any products.

3. Observe your skin:

   • If it feels tight → likely dry

   • If it's shiny all over → oily

   • If just the T-zone is oily → combination

   • If it feels irritated or red → sensitive

Understanding your skin is the key to achieving a healthy, glowing complexion. Once you know your type, customizing your routine becomes simple — and effective. Explore our curated skincare collections at VeauBeauty for every skin type.