How to determine your skin type

Your skin type is determined largely by genetics with diet, stress levels, overall health including medications you may take and skin care regimens - all contributing largely to the health of your skin.

Skin has been classified into various skin types based primarily on oil production.

To determine what skin type you have, wash your face, pat it dry and press a tissue gently on different spots on your face. If your skin is oily, the paper will stick, either in entirety or at places where the oil glands are overactive and become translucent. If the paper doesn't stick or pick up any oily spots, your skin is dry to normal. The skin types recognised are:

Type 1 - Oily: Oily skin tends to be shiny with enlarged pores, and is prone to acne.

Type 2 - Combination/normal: This skin type has medium pores, a smooth and even texture, it may tend towards dryness on the cheeks while being oily in the T-zone.

Type 3 - Sensitive: Sensitive skin tends to be fine with a tendency to flush easily. It can be prone to broken capillaries and is frequently allergenic.

Type 4 - Dry: Dry skin feels tight, especially after cleansing, & may have fine wrinkles, flaking & red patches. This kind of skin tends to age early.

Skin is the body's largest organ and like all else should be cared for and maintained. We all yearn for a glowing, flawless complexion, which has to be worked for in most cases. Any skin care regime should and must involve the following basic steps.