Articles

Buying Your First Beauty Products: Understanding Different Skin Types

Beauty products do more than just enhance your features - they help you look and feel confident wherever you go. With the array of products available out there, it can be confusing and a bit overwhelming to choose which one is the best for you.

The first step in buying your first set of beauty products is: knowing what your skin type is.

In the field of cosmetics, skin type refers to the balance between hydration, sebaceous secretion, and sensitivity level of the skin. These skin types can be due to genetics, environmental factors, or both.

We all have different and wonderful skin types, with each one having different needs and maintenance. To help you get started, here are the 5 Common Skin Types, and what kind of products suit them most. 

1. Normal Skin

This type can be the easiest to manage. It has a relatively regular texture, with a soft and clear appearance from its well-balanced sebum production and pH levels. People with this skin type mainly need to wash their face regularly to keep their skin supple and glowing.

It is best to note, however, that having normal skin now does not necessarily mean it’s permanently in that state. This type of skin still needs tender love and care from gentle cleansers, sunscreens, moisturizers, and of course, lots of water.

2. Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin are more prone to irritations, swelling, and acne breakouts. It can be said that this skin type is “fragile” and needs to be taken care of more carefully than the normal skin type. If the wrong product is used, it could lead to tightness, itching, and redness. It’s also important to keep the skin healthy to help it maintain its barrier against microorganisms that could penetrate and cause an infection or allergic reaction.

For this skin type, it’s highly recommended to choose products that have been dermatologically proven to be safe for sensitive skin, or a product that doesn't trigger any negative reactions from your skin. For some, it’s a matter of trial and error, but others avoid the risk and go straight for a consultation at a clinic. 

3. Dry Skin

This skin type is mostly caused by external factors such as humidity, temperature, weather, and even pollution. For some people, however, having dry skin is mainly caused by their genetics. This skin type is most prone to cracking, which can then lead to exposure to harmful microorganisms and substances from the environment. Dry skin can also look dull, rough, and with more visible lines.

This type of skin needs lots of moisture to regain its elasticity. You can rehydrate by using milder products, refrain from vigorous scrubbing when exfoliating, and use products that will moisturize your skin.
 

4. Oily Skin

Having oily skin is one of the most common problems amongst Singaporeans. Some of us grew up with it due to genetics, or acquired it when experiencing hormonal imbalances  (maybe from puberty or pregnancy). However, some of us also experience it because of our environment. Because of our island’s humidity most of the year, our skin may over-secrete oil which can cause the production of blackheads, pimples, and acne breakouts. Oily skin’s appearance tends to be porous and overly shiny throughout the day (especially in the heat).

For those with oily skin, it’s important to moisturize regularly to keep the skin hydrated. Doing so will restrict your pores from over-producing oil. It’s also important to avoid thick and heavy cream products, as it will worsen the state of your skin.

5. Combination Skin

People can still be confused about their own skin if they feel they have normal type on some parts (usually the cheek area), and oily type on others (usually the T-zone area). This condition is completely normal, and called “Combination Skin Type”. Coming from its name, a person can usually have two types of skin - which would also mean they would have a slightly different kind of care with their routine and beauty product.

The products used for this should be mild and gentle on the skin. It’s also advisable to use products that have sun protection, and if possible, products that are oil-free. When using the products, observe how the different areas react to see if it’s effective on both skin types.

We all want to feel and look confident, but most of us aren't confident enough when it comes to buying the first set of beauty products. We need products that will work effectively with our skin type, and avoid wasting time, effort and money.

It’s also important to know that your skin type can change over time, depending on your genetics and environment. Miyaco Beauty Bank understands this skin problem, and is dedicated to providing you with affordable and proper skin care products that suit your skin type. Go to our website at www.beautybanksg.com, and shop our LABOS Anti-Acne Series here. We are here to help you feel and look healthy and beautiful with your first set of beauty products from us.