ECOSIBLINGS
GREEN BEAUTY
INSPIRING A GREENER AND HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE
What Skin Type Do I Have?
Each of us has unique skin and it’s not just down to our genes. Factors like environment, hormones, hydration, humidity, stress, and climate all play a role in how our skin behaves.
There are many ways to classify skin, but in this article we’ll focus on cosmetic skin types, so you can better understand what your skin needs and how to care for it naturally. 🌿
Skin types are determined by factors like flakiness, oil production, hydration levels, and sensitivity. Based on those, there are five main skin types:
- Normal
- Dry
- Oily
- Combination
- Sensitive
Let’s explore each one and how to care for it.
What is normal skin like?
Normal skin is well-balanced in both oil (sebum) and moisture.
Key features:
• Small, barely visible pores
• Rarely red or irritated
• Good blood flow and healthy tone
• Few blemishes or breakouts
💡 As we age, even normal skin may become drier.
How to care for it:
• Use products that support the skin’s natural barrier (a.k.a. microbiome)
• Keep your skin hydrated with a gentle moisturiser
• Always wear sun protection good onya for looking after those UV worries! ☀️
What does dry skin look and feel like?
Dry skin produces less sebum than normal skin, which means it lacks the lipids needed to hold onto moisture.
Key features:
• Dull or lifeless appearance
• Tight or uncomfortable feeling
• Flaky patches or mild peeling
• May feel rough or itchy, especially in cold weather
Extremely dry skin can lead to cracks, calluses, scaling, and irritation.
How to care for it:
• Use a gentle soap that protects your skin’s barrier
• Pat skin dry with a soft towel no rubbing
• Apply a hydrating cream to lock in moisture
• Use a humidifier in winter or when A/C dries out the air 💧
What are the signs of oily skin?
Oily skin is marked by an overproduction of sebum, known as seborrhoea.
Key features:
• Enlarged or visible pores
• Shine or greasy feel on the face
• Prone to comedones, blackheads or acne
• Often thick and pale in texture
How to care for it:
• Cleanse morning and night and after sweating
• Choose skincare formulated for oily skin
• Don’t skip the moisturiser! A lightweight, oil-free cream keeps your barrier protected
• Exfoliate weekly with gentle ingredients to remove build-up and bring back your glow ✨
What is combination skin?
Combination skin is exactly what it sounds like a mix of skin types. Usually, the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) is oily, while the cheeks are normal or dry.
Key features:
• Oily T-zone with visible pores or impurities
• Normal to dry cheeks
• May experience both breakouts and flakiness at once
How to care for it:
• Wash your face with a cleanser made for combination skin
• Avoid hot water go for lukewarm or cool to reduce oil production and minimise pores
• Gently exfoliate once a week with non-irritating ingredients
• Look for antioxidants in skincare, and avoid products with high alcohol content
• Use a moisturiser specifically for combination skin 🌸
💡 Natural face masks are a fun and effective way to keep skin clean and balanced.
What makes skin sensitive?
Sensitive skin is easily irritated and reactive. It often happens when the skin’s barrier is compromised, allowing allergens and irritants to cause redness, inflammation, or discomfort.
Key features:
• Flushes or reddens easily
• Gets rashes, bumps or breakouts
• Stings or burns with some beauty products
• Fragrances may trigger irritation
• Reacts to temperature changes or wind
Crikey sensitive skin can be a bit tricky, but with the right care, it can be calm and glowing.
How to care for it:
• Avoid hot water; use cool to lukewarm when cleansing
• Pat dry gently with a towel no scrubbing
• Skip exfoliants unless recommended by a professional
• Moisturise daily with gentle facial hydrators
• Wear hats, UV-protective clothing and sunscreen with broad spectrum coverage 🧴
So… how can you support your skin long-term?
Understanding your skin type is the first step toward building a mindful and effective routine. By tuning into your skin’s natural rhythm, you can give it exactly what it needs to stay strong, calm and nourished.
🌿 Green beauty starts with awareness and small daily rituals that honour your skin’s unique nature.
If you ever experience unusual skin concerns, it’s always a good idea to see a dermatologist who can help rule out any underlying conditions.
