One of the first questions on my client intake form is “What is your skin type?,” it is also the question people skip the most when filling out their form. I noticed this was a trend with guests so I started asking, why? The answer most times, was that they simply didn’t know what their skin type actually was. Then they’d go into describing certain unfavorable things about their skin, in an attempt to offer up a quick guess as to what the type may be . The issue though is that they were usually naming characteristics of skin conditions, not actual skin types! Today I’m going to break down what the difference is between skin types and skin conditions so you have a better understanding.

Why is knowing the difference important?

Being aware of the differences between skin types and skin conditions is ultimatley what’s going to help you build a well rounded skincare routine. You’ll be able to utilize this information to better determine what your unique skin type is, make more mindful product selections as well as identify and treat problem areas more effectively without disrupting your skins protective barrier.

What is a Skin Type?

Essentially, your skins type determines what your daily care routine will be and what products you’ll use to keep it in a healthy state. Skin type is what you are born with and it doesn’t change, for the most part it will always be whatever it currently is. This piece of info is going to be important to remember when we get into skin conditions! There are 4 types of skin

1. Normal

2. Oily

3. Dry

4. Combination

Normal skin types are the least common and mostly found in younger children and babies. I tend to not spend much time focusing on normal skin types because usually when people are looking for skincare advice, its to deal with one of the other 3 types. In certain cases, I also consider sensitive skin to be a “type.” Usually in the case of people who may have a fairly normal skin type but have sensitivity by way of allergy or environmental factors they can’t control; not to be confused with skin that has been sensitized due to use of harsh products which is possible no matter skin type.

What is a Skin Condition?

Skin or “Cutaneous” Conditions, refer to medical conditions that affect the organ system that encloses the body. The skin is the largest organ on the body and its main function is to help protect us from environmental factors. There are several conditions that can affect the skin, some of the most common are

1. Aging

2. Acne

3. Rosacea

4. Eczema

5. *Sensitive

6. Dehydration

7. Pigmentation

8. Redness

9. Comedones

10. Hives

It is important to remember that you can experience different skin conditions at any time no matter your skin type. Some conditions are known to affect certain skin types more than others, but generally speaking things like dehydration or pigmentation can affect anyone.

Next Steps

Improvement in all areas happens when you get intentional about your daily skincare routine, as well as knowing what products and ingredients are best for that skin type. Of course the same goes for treatments used to help improve the condition of the skin at that time.

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