Knowing your skin type is the first step to an effective skincare routine. Different types need different products and approaches. Here is a clear guide to the four main skin types and how to care for each.
Oily Skin
Oily skin produces more sebum, so the face often looks shiny, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin (the T-zone). Pores may appear larger, and there is a higher tendency for blackheads and acne. Benefits of the right routine: gentle cleansing, oil-control ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid, and lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers help balance sebum without stripping the skin. Sunscreen in a gel or fluid formula avoids adding extra shine.
Dry Skin
Dry skin produces less sebum and may feel tight, flaky, or rough. It can be more prone to redness and sensitivity. Benefits of proper care: rich, nourishing cleansers and moisturizers with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and occlusives (like shea butter or squalane) help restore the barrier and lock in moisture. Avoid harsh foaming cleansers and over-exfoliating, which can make dryness worse.
Combination Skin
Combination skin is oily in the T-zone and normal or dry on the cheeks. You may need different products or application: lighter textures on the T-zone and more hydration on the drier areas. Benefits: a balanced routine—gentle cleanser, hydrating toner, moisturizer that is not too heavy, and sunscreen—keeps both zones comfortable. Some people use a light gel on the T-zone and a richer cream on the cheeks.
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin reacts easily to products, weather, or stress with redness, itching, or stinging. It can overlap with any other type (oily, dry, or combination). Benefits of gentle skincare: fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas with soothing ingredients (ceramides, centella, niacinamide) reduce reactions. Patch test new products and introduce one change at a time. Avoid alcohol, strong acids, and rough physical exfoliation.
Why It Matters
Using products suited to your skin type improves results and reduces irritation. What works for oily skin can be too drying for dry skin, and heavy creams can clog oily or combination skin. Skinify.ai uses AI to analyse your skin and recommend a routine tailored to your type and concerns.