It's a summer day, you're walking along the beach, the sun is shining, and everything feels perfect... until you come across someone carrying a pair of skis, a turtleneck, a jacket, and a massive scarf!  You stop, stare, and think: Something's definitely off here, right?

Now, imagine doing the same with your skincare routine. Wouldn’t it be just as strange to use products that don’t match what your skin actually needs? Every skin type has its own “style,” with unique needs that won’t always align with what works for others. 

So, let’s ask the real questions: What does my skin need? What’s its texture? What is it trying to tell me every time I look in the mirror or touch its surface?

If you’ve ever wondered why certain products don’t seem to work or how to build a routine that truly fits your skin, you’re in the right place—let’s uncover those answers together.

Why are there different skin types?

Your skin type isn’t random—it’s influenced by a mix of internal and external factors, from genetics to the environment. Everyone’s skin has the same basic structure: a protective barrier (the epidermis), oil-producing glands (sebaceous glands), and a mix of water and lipids that keep it hydrated. However, what makes each skin type different is how these components function together.

Key factors that determine skin type:

1. Genetics: Your genes play a major role in how much oil your skin produces, how quickly it renews itself, and how sensitive it is to external triggers.
   
   
2. Sebum production: The amount of oil (sebum) your sebaceous glands produce largely defines whether your skin is oily, dry, or somewhere in between.
   
   
3. Hydration levels: The skin's ability to retain moisture affects its smoothness and resilience. Skin that struggles to hold onto water is more prone to dryness.
   
   
4. Cell turnover: This is how quickly your skin sheds dead cells and replaces them with new ones. A slower turnover can lead to dull or rough textures.
   
   
5. Environmental factors: Climate, pollution, and even lifestyle choices like diet and stress can influence your skin type and how it behaves over time.
   
   

Why categorize skin types?

Categorizing skin types helps simplify skincare by matching products and routines to specific needs. Instead of guessing what might work, understanding your skin type acts as a roadmap, guiding you to solutions tailored to your unique concerns.

The 5 common skin types

1. Oily Skin

This skin type produces excess sebum, leading to a shiny appearance, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). You might also notice large pores and occasional breakouts.

• Texture: Slightly bumpy due to clogged pores or blackheads. Feels greasy to the touch.
  
  
• How to treat:
• Cleanse twice a day with a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil.
• Exfoliate regularly, you can use salicylic acid to unclog pores.
• Use non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizers and sunscreens. The Let it Sun SPF 50+ Sunscreen is perfect for oily skin—it absorbs quickly, leaves no greasy residue, and combines top-tier protection with a beautiful finish. It's your go-to for shielding your skin while keeping it shine-free and fresh all day!
  
  

2. Dry Skin

Dry skin tends to feel tight, rough, or flaky. This type lacks hydration and struggles to retain moisture, often appearing dull or scaly during colder months or in dry climates. 

If you’re looking for special tips on how to care for your skin during seasonal changes, check out our article: How to keep your skin healthy during the cold months

• Texture: Feels rough, with visible flakiness or fine lines.
  
  
• How to treat:
• Moisturize frequently with products containing panthenol or hyaluronic acid. Our B5 Bomb - Pro Vit B5 Moisturizer, was specifically designed to deliver double hydration by combining the power of both ingredients. It offers deep, long-lasting moisture that keeps your skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished—even in the driest conditions.
• Switch to creamy, hydrating cleansers.
• Avoid hot showers that strip your skin of natural oils.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from within.
  
  

#JessBeautyTip: For the ultimate hydration experience, check out our Dehydrated Skin Kit. This all-in-one bundle has been thoughtfully curated to provide your skin with the perfect balance of moisture and care. 

3. Combination Skin

Combination skin is characterized by having both oily and dry areas on the face. The T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) tends to be oilier, with visible pores and occasional shine, while the cheeks and other areas might feel normal or dry. 

This dual nature means that different parts of the face often require tailored care to address their unique needs, such as controlling oil in the T-zone

• Texture: Smooth in some areas, shiny or slightly rough in others.
  
  
• How to treat:
• Use a gentle, balancing cleanser suitable for all skin types.
• Apply mattifying products on the T-zone and hydrating creams on drier areas.
• Opt for a chemical exfoliant like PHAbulous chemical exfoliant. These help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores without the harshness of physical scrubs.
  
  

4. Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin reacts to almost everything—from harsh weather to new skincare products. This type often experiences redness, itchiness, or a burning sensation after exposure to triggers like fragrance, pollution, or temperature changes.

• Texture: Soft but prone to inflammation, which can feel itchy or irritated.
  
  
• How to treat:
• Always patch-test new products before applying them to your face.
• Stick to fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas.
• Simplify your skincare routine—less is more!
• Incorporate soothing ingredients like aloe vera or niacinamide. The Post Workout Gel Mask is perfect for sensitive skin, offering a cooling and hydrating effect after physical activity or exposure to stressors. Combining the calming properties of  aloe barbadensis flower extract and niacinamide, it’s designed to keep your skin hydrated, soothed, and refreshed after a workout—or any time your skin needs a little extra TLC.
  
  

5. Normal Skin

Normal skin is the low-maintenance bestie of the skincare world. It’s balanced, with no excessive dryness or oiliness. This skin type is less prone to sensitivity or breakouts.

• Texture: Smooth and even, with small pores and a healthy glow.
  
  
• How to treat:
• Cleanse twice daily with a gentle cleanser. A great option is the Face Reset Cleanser, formulated to refresh your skin without disrupting its natural balance.
• Apply sunscreen every day to prevent premature aging.
  
  

How to determine your skin type

Your skin is constantly giving you clues about its type—you just need to know where to look. Here, we’ve outlined two methods to help you decode your skin’s unique traits and figure out exactly what kind of care it needs.

1. Visual inspection

Grab a mirror, some natural light, and examine your face:

• Oily skin: Look for shine, especially in the T-zone, and check for enlarged pores.
• Dry skin: Check for flakiness, tightness, or dullness, particularly after cleansing.
• Combination skin: Note if your T-zone is shiny but your cheeks feel dry or normal.
• Sensitive skin: Look for redness, irritation, or inflammation triggered by products or the environment.
• Normal skin: Notice smooth, balanced areas with minimal oil, dryness, or sensitivity.
  
  

2. Professional skin analysis

Still unsure? Visit a dermatologist for a professional evaluation. They’ll analyze your skin under controlled conditions to determine your type and offer personalized recommendations.

Love the skin you're in

Now that you know all this, would you wear gloves and a winter hat to the beach on a scorching summer day? Of course not! Just like your wardrobe, your skincare routine should fit the moment—and your skin’s unique needs. 

But no matter your skin type, there’s one universal rule: always wear sunscreen! Whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or somewhere in between, sunscreen is your BFF.

At the end of the day, it’s you and your skin sharing life together. Treat it kindly, love it fiercely, and take care of it