skin type or skin condition, what is more important?

Everyone’s skin type is unique to them and sadly, we don’t have much say with the cards we are dealt. I’m sure you’ve heard the usual saying that if you have super visible pores all over your face then your skin type is oily, if your pores are small to non-visible all over then your skin type is dry, and if you fall somewhere between the two then your skin type is combination. The truth is, our skin is extraordinarily complex, much more than the traditional categories everyone talks about, and these classifications are missing a key consideration. 

Despite our skin type, what is often overlooked (and in my opinion is more important) is our skin condition. This refers to the state of your skin in the present moment and indicates an imbalance in how the skin is functioning. For example, acne is a condition caused by an increase in cellular proliferation and sebum production, whereas hyperpigmentation is a condition that can be caused by DNA damage and an improperly functioning melanocyte. Think of the skin as a factory that works as one cohesive unit and skin conditions are individual systems within the factory. If one system isn’t working, the entire factory will not be operating at its optimal function, regardless of what (skin) type of factory it is. When skincare is approached from the idea that all systems should be stimulated to work correctly, the result will be superior. 

So what does this mean when it comes to your routine?

First and foremost, spend some time getting close to your skin and determine what your top skin conditions may be (book a skincare consultation if you need some assistance with this). Some common ones include breakouts, dehydration, hyperpigmentation, dilated capillaries, and loss of elasticity.

Once you determine the condition of your skin, it’s time to start building a product and treatment routine around that. Again, speak to a professional to help get you on the right track and get ready for happy, healthy skin!