Know your skin type to take better care of it

Knowing your skin type is essential to adopt the right habits and choose suitable skincare. Whatever your gender or skin tone, the first criterion for any beauty product is the skin type it targets.

Dry, normal, oily, or combination? Know your skin type

Correctly identifying your skin type helps you optimize your routine and get better results.

The four main skin types

• Dry skin: reduced sebum production, thin and sensitive skin, tightness after cleansing, “crocodile skin” look.
• Normal skin: soft and smooth, tightened pores, few imperfections.
• Oily skin: persistent shine, uneven texture, enlarged pores, blackheads and blemishes.
• Combination skin: oilier T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) with drier cheeks and temples, visible pores.

In adulthood, your skin type changes little. Learn to respect it and give it care tailored to its needs.

Quick test to know your skin type

Do the “tissue paper” test: cleanse your face, wait 30–60 minutes without moisturizer, then place two strips of tissue (one on the T-zone, one on the cheek/temple). Press for a few seconds and observe:

• No traces of oil: normal to dry skin.
• Oil only on the T-zone strip: combination skin.
• Oil on both strips: oily skin.

This test gives an indication. Only a dermatologist can provide a precise diagnosis.

What to do once you know your skin type?

If you have dry skin

Prioritize rehydration: drink enough water (about 1.5 L/day). Choose gentle, hydrating products. After cleansing (1–2×/day), pat dry. Apply a hydrating treatment morning and night to reduce tightness and protect the skin barrier.

If you have normal skin

Maintain balance with day and night care. Occasionally do a gentle exfoliation to remove impurities and dead cells.

If you have combination skin

Rebalance dry and oily zones: hydrate daily with a lightweight, non-greasy product. Once a week, use a purifying mask on the T-zone and a hydrating mask on the rest of the face.

If you have oily skin

Do not skip hydration: choose a fluid, lightweight moisturizer to hydrate without clogging pores. Avoid ultra-covering foundations and over-matifying powders, which can suffocate skin and increase sebum production.