Understanding Skin Types

We were all born with certain skin qualities that we tend to put into a classification of skin type. We may have oily skin, combination skin, dry skin, sensitive skin or what we call normal skin. We tend to try to do things to our skin to make it follow the course of what we call normal skin.

It is important to carry out a specific plan for your skin care. Oily and combination skins tend to have breakouts or acne, especially during the teenage years.

Cleansing is the single most important thing you should do for your skin. It should be done twice daily, preferably with a cleanser rather than soap, because soap can, for a short time, dry the skin and cause it to crack and allow bacteria to enter.

Cleansers, such as, Biomedic LHA Cleansing Gel or Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming Cream are especially good for removing the surface debris and also, for unplugging the skin pores of thick oil and dead cells that block the normal flow of oil and sweat from those orifices.

Preventing infection is another very important part of caring for oily and combination skin. It is necessary that you don't damage the skin in the process of rendering care, such as, using a harsh soap or using a coarse substance, like ground pits for exfoliation.

Salicylic acid is important to prevent inflammation around congested pores which can lead to infection if not controlled. Both of the previously mentioned cleansers contain salicylic acid, as does Effaclar AI Targeted Breakout Corrector.  Effaclar AI, a spot treatment, also contains benzoyl peroxide to control inflammation. 

It is sometimes difficult to keep makeup in place, it tends to run down your face, if you have excessively oily skin. Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel was made for that problem; it contains microspores that absorb oil and keep it under control. Your makeup can be applied over it and the problem is solved.

Oily skin can benefit from vitamin A products, such as, Retinol.  Biomedic Retinol cream comes in 3 strengths, 15, 30 and 60 and is a great benefit in keeping the pores free from dead cells and providing a strong antioxidant to keep the skin healthy. A sunburn can be disasterous, because if you already have a breakout the infection can spread to all burned areas, but if you don't have an acne breakout you may precipitate one. Next time we will continue with, part 2 about understanding skin types.

See U next week.