Know Your Skin Type

SKIN DEEP

We are all blessed with different types of skin. Understanding what your particular skin requires for nourishment and cleansing is half the battle towards a soft, supple, fresh and clear complexion. Particularly now that winter is setting in you may see a difference in your skin’s condition, so find out what will be the best form of defence for your skin this season.

Normal, or not so normal

Normal skin, contrary to its name, is rare! It is balanced in both oil and moisture content and feels soft, smooth and supple without enlarged pores or blemishes. It is even in tone, texture and the pores are a normal size. Fortunately, normal skin is firm and resilient.

Tip: Use a light moisturiser under make up to help retain surface moisture, particularly when exposed to the elements.

Oily by nature

Oily skin tends to look greasy because of the excessive sebum. The skin has enlarged pores and is prone to acne and blackheads. It looks coarser in texture, appears shiny because of the oily sheen and is prone to pimples.

Some of the causes for oily skin can be a hormonal imbalance, bad diet, or use of harsh preparations which strip the oil from the skin.

Tip: Excessive cleansing to try and get rid of the sheen is counter-productive and cleansing more than twice a day actually increases oil production. Only use warm water not hot or cold!

Delicately dry

As opposed to oily skin, dry skin can look flaky from inadequate production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. Dry skin is delicate and fine textured, prone to fine facial lines and wrinkles. It can often feel tight after cleansing.

Dry skin can be caused by alack of moisture or fat and an inability to trap surface moisture. Dry skin will suffer from exposure to strong sun, wind or cold, strong exfoliators, harsh cosmetics and alcohol based products.

Tip: Stimulate the skin with a massage and nourishing facial oil and avoid harsh exfoliators and very hot water.

A tricky combination

Combination skin tends to produce an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) with dry patches (usually cheeks). The areas can become more noticeable and can be aggravated by changes in the weather, diet etc.

Tip: Use two different masks for the skin, one for the dry areas and one for the oily areas.

Soft and sensitive

Sensitive skin is fine in texture and prone to lines and small surface veins. It can suffer redness and irritation when exposed to allergens. It can often be susceptible to eczema and dermatitis.

Tip: Avoid products containing potential allergens such as synthetic fragrances. For extreme sensitivities, even natural essential oils can cause a reaction, so opt for fragrance free products.

A changeable forecast

Your skin changes from day to day, depending on the season, weather, health and your physical and emotional wellbeing. It also alters between day and night so you need to use the right products for the different moods of the skin.

Ultimately everyone’s skin is unique and it is important to know what works for you and what makes your skin feel good, so being aware of what can affect this is one of the most important factors when choosing the right skin care products.

Tips for a healthy winter glow

Cold wind and heating (also very hot showers and baths) will dry out the skin, leaving it flaky, itchy and robbing it of vital moisture. Use a scrub to remove the dead cells, making the skin look fresher, brighter and smoother, and then follow with a nourishing mask and moisturise at night so the skin can heal. Also don’t forget your lip balm.

To protect the skin from thermal shock, the skin needs to retain the water barrier and needs protection to seal in moisture. Use a high quality moisturiser cream rich in Vitamins E & D.

The hair also suffers during the winter months, so it is important to use a nourishing hair treatment to keep your hair silky smooth.

A good way to brighten your face in the dark winter months is to use a light colour bronzer and lightly brush over the whole face or apply as if the sun is shining on your face from above.

At www.lucyrose.biz there is an extensive range of organic and natural skin care products which are listed according to skin type, to help you make the right choice. With over 15 years natural skincare experience the consultants at Lucy Rose are always on hand, via telephone or email, to offer and advice and samples, if you are unsure which products are the best for you.