Understanding the Difference Between Skin Type and Skin Concern
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SKIN TYPE AND SKIN CONCERN
![](https://www.urban-retreat.com/image/catalog/Blogs/Skin-Type-Vs-Skin-Concern-Blog.jpg)
When it comes to skincare, knowing the difference between your skin type and your skin concern is crucial. This understanding will guide you in choosing the right products and using them effectively to achieve healthy, glowing skin. Let's dive into what sets these two concepts apart and how you can identify and address them.
WHAT IS SKIN TYPE?
Your skin type is a classification that describes the natural state of your skin. Typically, it falls into one of five categories:
1. Oily
2. Dry
3. Combination
4. Sensitive
5. Normal
These types are determined by genetics and can change over time due to various factors like age and hormones. For instance, teenagers often experience oily skin and breakouts due to hormonal changes, while post-menopausal individuals may notice drier, flakier skin. Environmental factors also influence your skin type, but a consistent skincare routine can help maintain balance.
HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR SKIN TYPE
To accurately determine your skin type:
1. Cleanse your face as soon as you wake up.
2. Avoid applying any skincare products.
3. Check your skin in the mirror at midday.
Compare your findings with the following categories to identify your skin type:
OILY SKIN
Characteristics: Greasy feel, shiny appearance, oversized pores
Causes: Overactive sebaceous glands producing excess sebum
Concerns: Blackheads, large pores, blemishes
DRY SKIN
Characteristics: Rough, tight, or itchy, dull appearance, red or scaly patches, very small pores
Causes: Insufficient sebum production, poor moisture retention
Concerns: Redness, flaky patches, tightness, increased fine lines
COMBINATION SKIN
Characteristics: Dry cheeks, oily nose, chin, or forehead, varying pore sizes
Causes: Mixed sebaceous activity across different facial areas
Concerns: Blemish-prone T-zone, dry patches on cheeks
NORMAL SKIN
Characteristics: Soft and smooth, clear and blemish-free, small pores
Causes: Balanced oil production and moisture levels
Concerns: Minimal, generally well-maintained with a simple routine
SENSITIVE SKIN
Characteristics: Easily irritated, prone to redness, itchiness, and discomfort
Causes: Reactivity to certain ingredients and environmental factors
Concerns: Redness, irritation, discomfort
WHAT ARE SKIN CONCERNS?
Skin concerns refer to specific issues or conditions affecting your skin at any given time. These concerns are influenced by external factors such as weather, pollution, sun exposure, and ageing. They are unique to each individual and can vary widely. Common skin concerns include:
• Breakouts
• Wrinkles
• Dark Circles
• Hyperpigmentation
• Dry/Flaky Skin
• Sun Damage
• Dehydration
• Large Pores
• Redness
Understanding your skin concerns is key to selecting targeted treatments and achieving desired results.
ADDRESSING YOUR SKIN TYPE AND CONCERN
Once you've identified your skin type and concerns, you can choose the appropriate products and routines. Here are tailored routines for each skin type:
![](https://www.urban-retreat.com/image/catalog/Blogs/Oily-Routine-Blog-Images.jpg)
OILY SKIN ROUTINE
Products: Anti-Imperfections Cleansing Gel, Vesuvio Mineral Mask, Vitality C Smoothing Base, UltraDerm Day Cream - Oily, Eye Contour Gel.
Routine: Focus on controlling sebum production, unclogging pores, and preventing breakouts.
![](https://www.urban-retreat.com/image/catalog/Blogs/Dry-Routine-Blog-Images.jpg)
DRY SKIN ROUTINE
Products: Soothing Cleansing Milk, Vesuvio Mineral Mask, Hyaluronic Serum, Eye Contour Concentrate, UltraDerm Dry.
Routine: Emphasise hydrating and nourishing the skin to improve moisture retention and repair the skin barrier.
![](https://www.urban-retreat.com/image/catalog/Blogs/Combination-Routine-Blog-Images.jpg)
COMBINATION SKIN ROUTINE
Products: Soothing Cleansing Milk, Ado Cleanser, Vesuvio Mineral Mask, Hyaluronic Serum, Eye Contour Gel, UltraDerm Dry.
Routine: Balance the needs of both dry and oily areas, using multi-tasking and targeted treatments.
![](https://www.urban-retreat.com/image/catalog/Blogs/Normal-Routine-Blog-Images.jpg)
NORMAL SKIN ROUTINE
Products: Micellar Cleansing Lotion, Vesuvio Mineral Mask, Vitality C Smoothing Base, Eye Contour Gel, UltraDerm Normal.
Routine: Maintain balance and overall skin health with a straightforward and consistent routine.
![](https://www.urban-retreat.com/image/catalog/Blogs/Sensitive-Routine-Blog-Images.jpg)
SENSITIVE SKIN ROUTINE
Products: Luxury Cleansing Balm, Soothing Cleansing Milk, Vesuvio Mineral Mask, Energising Vitality Lotion (EVL), UltraDerm Normal.
Routine: Use gentle, fragrance-free, and pH-balancing products to minimise irritation and protect the skin barrier.
Recognising the difference between your skin type and skin concerns is essential for effective skincare. By identifying your skin type and addressing specific concerns with targeted products, you can achieve healthier, more balanced skin.