Our skin type is determined by our hydrolipidic film, which differs from one person to another. This hydrolipidic film is a mixture of sebum, enzymes, lipids, and water that forms a protective layer on our skin.

Skin pH also helps identify skin type: the pH of normal skin is 5.5. If the pH is lower, the skin will be considered "dry," if it is higher, the skin will be "oily."

How do I recognize my skin type?

There are 4 main types of skin. They all have their own characteristics:

Normal skin: Skin is naturally soft and supple, with a smooth, even complexion. There are few or no imperfections, and pores are neither enlarged nor clogged.

Dry skin: Dry skin lacks moisture and often feels tight. It produces less sebum than normal skin and therefore does not have enough oil to retain water and protect itself against external aggressions. Dry skin feels rough to the touch and sometimes presents some irritation or redness, or even flaking (small dead skin).

Oily skin: Oily skin is caused by excess sebum production. It appears shiny, feels oily, and has enlarged, clogged pores, leading to acne and blackheads.

Combination Skin: Combination skin is characterized by a variation in skin appearance depending on the area of the face. Typically, oily skin is found in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) with enlarged pores and dry skin on the cheeks. During the summer, combination skin may experience increased sebum production, while in the winter, dryness can become a major problem. That's why it's important to have a routine that changes with the seasons.

What is the condition of my skin?

Skin health is different from skin type. As with skin types, skin conditions all have different characteristics, which are often temporary and dependent on other factors. Here are the 5 skin conditions:

Sensitive skin: Sensitive skin is particularly prone to redness and reacts strongly to external factors such as various climatic and environmental changes. This skin feels tight and stinging when the cosmetics applied are not suitable and presents a high risk of allergies to certain products.

Dehydrated skin: Dehydrated skin lacks suppleness and sometimes has a grainy appearance. It can feel tight at times and show fine lines of dehydration, often around the eyes.

Acne-prone skin: Acne-prone skin is characterized by the presence of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). Pores are usually clogged, and red spots, ranging from cysts to nodules, are found all over the face. The skin may also have pigmentation spots and redness. Acne-prone skin is most common in oily skin, but can also be found in dry skin.

Mature skin: Mature skin is characterized by aging and sagging. It is often dull, dry, and has wrinkles and pigmentation spots. The skin lacks moisture and elasticity.

Dull skin: Dull skin is generally grayish and lacks radiance and luminosity. It may also have dark circles and uneven skin texture.

Certain factors, such as occasional medical treatments, a change of season, pollution, fatigue, diet, stress, cosmetic products or lack of water, can affect the nature of your skin - by drying it out or making it more oily, for example.

It is therefore important to adapt your skincare routine during these changes!

Once you've diagnosed your skin type and condition, all you need to do is find the active ingredients that target these issues!