What are the four primary skin types?

The four primary skin types are normal, oily, dry, and combination. Understanding these skin types is essential for estheticians and skincare professionals when analyzing clients' skin and recommending appropriate products and treatments.

Normal skin is characterized by a balanced level of moisture and oil, resulting in a healthy and smooth appearance without excessive dryness or oiliness. Oily skin has an abundance of sebum production, which can lead to shine and a higher likelihood of acne and enlarged pores. Dry skin tends to lack moisture, leading to flakiness, rough texture, and discomfort. Combination skin exhibits characteristics of more than one skin type, usually presenting an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) and dryness in other areas.

Recognizing these main categories allows professionals to tailor their approaches to individual needs effectively. Other choices mentioned include sensitive and irritated skin, which relate to skin conditions rather than primary skin types, and do not encompass the foundational classifications needed for effective skincare analysis and treatment.