Everyone’s skin behaves differently depending on various internal and external factors. By paying attention to your unique needs, you can build a regimen that nurtures your skin’s health and addresses specific concerns.
You may have noticed that what works in one season may not be effective in another. Recognising these subtle changes can be the key to maintaining a glowing complexion year-round.
Identifying Your Skin Type
Knowing whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive will help you tailor your choices and avoid products that may aggravate existing concerns.
To start, cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser and wait for about an hour without applying anything. Then, take note of how your skin feels. If your face feels tight, rough, or flaky, you likely have dry skin. Alternatively, if you notice excess shine, particularly on your forehead, nose, and chin (the T-zone), your skin may be oily.
Combination skin is common and typically means you have oily areas in the T-zone and dry or normal skin elsewhere. Sensitive skin might react to products with redness, itching, or irritation.
Tailoring Your Skincare Routine
It’s time to choose skincare that support your needs. For those with dry skin, look for products that provide deep hydration and nourishment.
Cream-based moisturisers and humectants like glycerin can trap moisture, helping to combat the tight, rough texture that often accompanies dryness. Avoid harsh cleansers that strip away natural oils.
If your skin is oily, focus on lightweight, oil-free products that won’t clog your pores. A foaming or gel cleanser can help control excess oil, while a mattifying moisturiser can reduce shine without making your face feel dry.
Combination skin requires a balance—opt for different products for different areas. For example, use a hydrating cream for the cheeks, but a lighter gel moisturiser for the T-zone. Sensitive skin needs gentle, fragrance-free products that reduce the risk of reactions.
Adapting to Seasonal Changes
Skin doesn’t behave the same throughout the year. In winter, cold air and indoor heating can strip moisture, leaving your face feeling dry and parched.
During this time, boost hydration by switching to thicker creams or oils. Incorporate a hydrating serum under your moisturiser and be sure to wear sunscreen—even in colder months.
Summer presents a different set of challenges. Humidity and increased sun exposure can cause your skin to produce more oil, leading to breakouts and shine. During this time, switch to lighter formulations, such as gel-based moisturisers and mattifying sunscreens.
Ensure that your skincare routine includes SPF every day to protect you from harmful UV rays.
Navigating Skincare Trends
Skincare trends can be tempting, but they aren’t always suited to your needs. It’s easy to get swept up in the latest fad, whether it’s a new ingredient or a highly recommended treatment.
Trends like microneedling or Korean beauty routines often promise fast results, but they’re not always appropriate for every skin type. For example, while retinol can be a game-changer for those with acne or signs of ageing, it may irritate sensitive or dry skin if used too frequently.
Before jumping on the trend train, take the time to learn about each product or treatment and assess whether it aligns with your skin’s requirements.
