Determining your skin type: Tip of the Day 11-2-22

Knowing your skin type is key in knowing how to care for it. If you have no idea what your skin type is, you are not alone. But, I'm here to help. Experts say, there are a few ways to assess what kind of skin you have. Once you know your skin type, you'll be able to choose the best products for your skin routine.

The morning to evening test is great, but isn't always practical. For instance, if you workout during the day and wash your face midday, you won't get a true "morning to evening" result. Other factors like harsh weather and other irritants you may become exposed to could also affect your "morning to evening" results. This is why some prefer the "wash test" to determine skin type.

To do the wash test, clean your face with a mild cleanser and don’t apply any product or makeup. Wait 30 minutes and examine how your skin feels. Refer to the chart above for results.

Your dermatologist may be able to photograph your skin to determine your skin type. Dermatologists have access to technology that can assess changes in your skin using UV-like filters.

Bonus tip: Your skin type can change over time. Factors like diet, location, and pregnancy play a role in how your skin behaves. And, dehydration isn't a skin type. All skin types can become dehydrated!