Back to basics - knowing your skin type

Good morning! I'm not sure why, but I feel to blog my thoughts in the early hours of the morning. So here I am, relaxing in my bed, talking to you about your skincare routine. 

I can publish many posts talking about making techniques, how to make your makeup look flawless, how to apply eyeliner but when all is said and done, the main priority for great makeup is the foundation, and I don't mean the cosmetic kind. I am talking about your skin. Makeup is there to enhance one's features and beauty, not to mask one's face completely. Looking after your skin is a great start to looking healthy and well. 

Now I am not one to say you must all have good skin... what is "good" skin? But I do believe that looking after your skin is a must, especially with the colder months drawing near, the weather and climate can significantly alter your skin. 

Let's start off with getting to know your skin type before we jump into skincare routines. 

There are 3 main types of skin:-

1. Normal skin
2. Dry skin
3. Oily skin 

These can be further categorised into the following:-

1. Dry skin - You have a tendency towards flaking, fine wrinkles and red patches. Smaller pores.
2. Normal -  Not oily or dry. Skin is supple.
3. Normal to Oily combination - tends have a slightly oily t-zone and normal skin on cheeks
4. Oily - Shiny, tends to be quite thick. Usually prone to acne and larger pores.

Knowing your skin type plays an important factor in choosing skincare routines. I will post further details about that in the next blog. 

If you are still unsure, here is a skin test you can carry out to determine your type. 

The Skin Test

Begin by washing your face and then pat it dry. Wait a few minutes, and then take a few pieces of rice paper or tissue paper and press them on different areas of the face. If you have oily skin, the paper will stick, become translucent because of the oil. If you have dry skin, the paper will not stick or contain any oily spots. If you have normal to combination skin, then the paper will stick to your t-zone. The t-zone is your forehead, nose and chin area.

Everyone has different skin, there is no fool proof method for great skin. Don't worry about your skin type, there is always something that can be done to tackle your problem areas. 

Stay blessed. Peace!