Skin Types & Problems

Knowing your skin inside out is important, especially when deciding which products to use. Choosing the wrong product for your skin type can be frustrating, and could worsen any skin concerns you may have.


There are three main Skin Types - Dry, Normal and Oily. Your skin type may change over the course of your life, especially when experiencing hormonal fluctuations (such as during puberty, or menopause), and may occur at weak or strong levels (eg. slightly oily to very oily, slightly dry to very dry).


In addition to your Skin Type, you may experience one or more Skin Conditions, such as dehydration, acne, combination skin, or sensitivity.


Both your general skin type, and any specific skin conditions should be taken into account when choosing your products.




Dry Skin Type


DESCRIPTION: Skin feels tight and taut, especially after cleansing. Without adequate moisturisation, skin tends to flake, and is prone to fine lines and wrinkles. Skin tends to appear delicate and thin, with almost invisible pores. Complexion is fair and prone to sunburn, may also become red or ruddy in cold or harsh weather. Usually drier in winter than in summer.


TIPS: Use a gentle cleanser, and always use a hydrating toner or mist after cleansing, and before moisturising. You may also need to use a mist throughout the day, especially if working in air conditioned or harsh environments. Use a facial oil for extra nourishment. Exfoliate once or twice a week to ensure adequate removal of dead skin cells.


Normal Skin Type


DESCRIPTION: Skin is neither oily or dry, has good hydration and muscle tone, feels soft, smooth & firm. Skin tone is even, blemishes are minor.


TIPS: Stick to a good basic skin care routine, and you will have great skin! Cleanse, tone & moisturise twice daily. Use an exfoliant and mask once or twice a week to ensure thorough cleansing and nourishment.


Oily Skin Type


DESCRIPTION: Skin is oily to the touch, make up does not conceal the oil for long, skin is thick and heavy, pores are large. Hot and humid weather exacerbates oil production, as does the use of harsh skin products containing alcohol or detergents. Skin ages slowly, as oil keeps skin moisturised, and prevents wrinkles.


TIPS: Strictly adhere to a good skin care routine. Keeping the skin clean and free of bacteria, grime and oil is essential, but don't forget that there is a delicate balance to be maintained. Using harsh cleansers and toners will only cause the skin to produce even more oil to compensate. Stick to natural cleansers and alcohol-free toners. Don't exfoliate too often, or too rigorously, as this can aggravate the skin, and spread blemishes. Use a very light moisturiser to protect your skin from the environment.




Some common Skin Conditions are detailed below:


Dehydration


DESCRIPTION: Skin looks dry, dull, scaly and flaky, and crinkles like tissue paper when gently pulled. The skin may appear to have an almost translucent layer, particularly around the nose and forehead. The skin lacks water and oil, may have been overexposed to harsh weather conditions, may be the result of recent illness and medication, or smoking.


TIPS: Similar routines to the Dry Skin Type should be followed, using oils and balms for extra nourishment, and mists throughout the day to keep flakiness to a minimum. Examine your diet, lifestyle, and current product use. Avoid smoking, caffeine, and over-use of soaps and detergents. Increase your water intake and excercise.


Sensitivity


DESCRIPTION: Skin reacts easily with products, can be itchy and burning, red and blotchy, may easily become hot and flushed. This condition can occur in conjuction with any skin type. Person may be prone to allergies.


TIPS: Choose gentle, soothing products, aligned with your skin type. Try to avoid over-stimulating the skin - focus on achieving balance and calm.


Combination


DESCRIPTION: May experience dryness on cheeks and around eyes, and oiliness in the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin). Blemishes may occur in both dry and oily areas, with blackheads or open pores in the T-zone.


TIPS: This is all about balance. Choose products that will calm any blemishes and excess oil production, and tighten pores, but still provide moisture for the skin. When applying facial cream, focus on your dry areas. A lighter moisturiser may be required for oily areas, or refrain from moisturising them at all.


Acne


DESCRIPTION: Acne comes in the form of Acne Vulgaris, Acne Rosacea, and Cystic Acne. Skin will usually be oily (but not always), with clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, etc. You may be experiencing an hormonal imbalance, poor diet lacking in Vitamin A and Zinc, food allergies, stress, or using inappropriate skin care products.


TIPS: The key is to reduce the bacteria on the skin, without aggravating it. Exfoliating may make your skin feel clean, but if you experience lots of blemishes, using an exfoliant too often may spread infection. Focus on deep cleansing, using masks, and compression (see Rasasara Compress Drops). Avoid touching your face at all times, change your pillow cover regularly, keep your hair clean, and don't squeeze (or if you must, cleanse first using warm water, cover your nails with a cloth, and be gentle!). Don't forget to cleanse, tone, and moisturise twice daily - neglecting any part of your skin care routine could result in an unwanted break out. Choose products that are both antibacterial and soothing, to calm any inflammation.




Other skin conditions or disorders include Couperose, Eczema, Psoriasis, etc. Pukka recommends visiting your doctor or a skin specialist if you have any skin disorder concerns.