How Do I Know My Skin Type?

Is your skin oily, dry or combination? It's critical to know your unique skin needs so you can purchase and use the correct products. Not sure how to determine your skin type? No problem, we’re going to help you figure it out!

Get to Know the Skin Type Categories

First things first, let’s gain a better understanding of the skin type categories. Generally, you’ll find that there are four different skin types that skincare professionals refer to:

1. Oily skin - refers to skin with excess oil and that oil most commonly throughout the T-zone. The T-zone refers to the forehead, nose and chin on the face. Oily skin tends to look shiny, feel greasy and is blemish or breakout-prone..
2. Dry skin - applies to skin that is generally rough, scaly, flaky, itchy or irritated and often looks and feels dehydrated.
3. Combination skin - refers to skin that can be both oily and dry at the same time. While the forehead chin and nose may appear oily or greasy, the cheeks may feel rough and appear dry or flaky.
4. Sensitive skin - this skin type varies from person to person, however, it is often characterized by redness or flakiness. It’s essential to consult a dermatologist if you experience sensitivity that isn’t visible or uncomfortable.

Now that we know what the categories are, let’s discuss the three at-home methods we recommend for determining which category you fall into.

The Bare-Faced Method

One of the most tried and true methods for determining your skin type is studying your skin when it’s bare, free of dirt, makeup and any other product. This method is referred to as the Bare-Faced Method.

Step 1: Start by washing your face with a mild cleanser.
Step 2: Pat skin dry and avoid applying any skincare products.
Step 3: After 30 minutes, observe your skin. Use the chart below to analyze how your face looks and feels to determine your skin type.

The Blotting Sheet Method

Another way to determine your skin type at home is to press a clean blotting sheet onto various spots of your face. A blotting sheet is an absorbent sheet of paper used for soaking up excess ink when writing or in this case, oil from your skin. This method is referred to as the Blotting Sheet Method.

Step 1: Cleanse your skin of all dirt, oil and makeup by using a gentle cleanser.
Step 2: Rinse face with lukewarm water and dry as usual. Wait an hour to allow your skin to return to its natural state.
Step 3: Next, press a clean blotting sheet to various parts of your face.
Step 4: Hold the blotting sheet up to the light to determine how much oil is visible.

The amount of oil on the sheet will help determine what type of skin you have. Read the chart below to understand what your blotting sheet is telling you about your skin.

Urban Skin Rx® Skin Analysis Quiz

Last but not least, you can take our Skin Analysis Quiz! That’s right, we’ve created a simple quiz that helps you determine your skin type to make things easier for our Glowgetters. All you have to do is answer the series of questions that follow after clicking the link above and we will provide you with a Skin ID and a custom skincare recommendation. Plus, you’ll receive discounts on recommended products once you’ve finished!

After you’ve taken the Skin Analysis Quiz, if you still have questions and wish to speak to a skincare expert, you can chat us by clicking the "chat now" tab below or contact us via phone (980) 221-1200 or email support@urbanskinrx.com to discuss your results further.

PROTIP: If you really want to gain the best insight into your skin type, you should make an appointment with a licensed dermatologist!

For other information, education and resources on maintaining your melanin-rich glow, check back on The Glow-Up Guide often!