One look in the mirror and you know what your skin looks like right now. But do you really know how to identify your skin type? And yet, there are clues that allow you to recognise your skin type and gain a better understanding of how it works.
We all get genes from our parents! Each individual has their own characteristics written into their DNA! As far as the skin is concerned, it is also a question of biological heredity. Because we human beings and all of our organs, including the skin, are entirely made up of cells, all of which carry our genetic code. We inherit a colour, a skin type (and hair type) and sometimes skin diseases (often inflammatory ones). Subsequently, lifestyle and beauty products used on the skin will have an impact, at which point we refer to the condition of the skin.
Bear in mind that the skin is a vital organ. It is the protective barrier between the body and the outside world. The skin is a kind of shield against pollution, knocks, bacteria, viruses, cold and heat. It is made up of three layers:
- The epidermis (the most superficial layer) which is in contact with the outside world
- The dermis (just beneath it)
- The hypodermis (the deepest layer)
The skin has its own blood vessels, which create a genuine irrigation system, and nerves, which transmit information between the brain and the skin, in particular sensory information. This information goes in both directions: from the brain to the skin (hmmm, I like a certain someone - cue blushing!), and from the skin to the brain (ouch, that’s hot, I've burned myself – time to whip my hand away).
How do you identify your skin type?
To identify skin type, we factor in what can be observed (such as the colour - pale or red, to a greater or lesser extent). Then we move on to how it feels to the touch (it’s rough, or soft, or bumpy, takes time to regain its initial shape when pressure is applied – all to a greater or lesser extent, etc.). Being able to categorise the skin allows us to gain a better understanding of its nature, its strengths and weaknesses, the factors that are likely to have an impact on its physiology, modify it or transform. That way we can embrace hygiene routines and use beauty products accordingly.
The skin of the face, upon which skin type hinges, also characterises the skin that covers the entire body.
What are the various skin types?
Skin type is a bit like eye colour: it’s something that you cannot change.
You can't change your skin type, but by factoring in its characteristics, you can gain a better understanding of it and anticipate how it might respond to certain things. Picture this: the skin is a large envelope measuring about 1.5 to 2 m2, weighing between three and five kilos for the average person! From the soles of the feet to the scalp, the skin plays the role of a barrier at all times, as well as an incredible communication tool. The skin is neither completely smooth nor completely even. It is made up of folds and of multiple orifices, is sometimes hairless and sometimes covered with hair, nails or hairs.
Knowing your skin type, and treating your skin kindly, is the way to support it better on a day-to-day basis. You can do this by using beauty products that keep it healthy and looking good, into the long term. Not forgetting that caring for your skin equals caring for yourself as a whole, both physically and mentally.
Experts have identified four skin types: normal, dry, combination and oily.
