What Skincare Do I Need?

Wondering what skincare is right for your skin type? Read on to discover the best moisturisers, cleansers and treatments to suit your skin

Content editor

Ellie Spicer

How to discover your skin type

Knowing whether your skin is oily, dry, sensitive (which is actually a condition, not a type) or combination is essential to choosing the right skincare. A dermatologist or skincare specialist can help you determine your skin type, but it’s also easy to discover at home.

Do this by washing your face with water and allowing it to air dry. If your skin feels tight and uncomfortable, you’ve probably got dry skin. Still a little slick? It’s likely to be oily. Combination skin will feel somewhere in the middle of these two extremes. If you have increased redness, itchiness and discomfort after using certain products you could have sensitive skin. It’s best to speak to a professional if your skin is regularly irritated.

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Skincare for sensitive skin

Skin can be sensitive for a variety of reasons. While what products you use will be a factor, your genetics, environment, diet and age can also increase skin sensitivity. Some people’s skin can also become more sensitive in the winter or summer as temperatures impact the overall condition of your skin.

If you feel your skin is sensitive, start by removing harsh exfoliants and cleansers from your routine. Think about avoiding products with actives such as retinol (vitamin A) and vitamin C; there are exceptions as however Clinique’s Smart Clinical Repair Retinoid Balm and REN’s Glow Daily Vitamin C Gel Cream are both suitable for sensitive skin.

Supporting your skin barrier and maintaining hydration are key to managing sensitive skin, so look to invest in a great day and night cream from a brand such as Pai which is an expert in sensitive skincare.

Skincare for oily skin

Oily skin types often get a bad rep, being associated with teenage hormones or a poor diet. In truth, oily skin is impacted by your genetics and is more common in men than women. Skincare for oily skin focuses on maintaining good skin hydration while managing the production of oil from your sebaceous glands. It will often treat acne and blackheads, as these are common among those with oilier skin. Cleansing is particularly important for oily skin types (Clinique’s Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm with charcoal is a great choice).

Many people with oily skin fall into the trap of thinking they need to avoid anything moisturising, which can lead to the skin producing even more oil to combat dehydration. Moisturisers should be kept light and water-based such as Origin’s A Perfect World Antioxidant Moisturizer. It’s important to not strip skin of oils: Murad’s Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Mask is a great weekly treatment to support your natural skin barrier.

Skincare for dry skin

Dry skin, not to be confused with dehydrated skin, is skin that feels tight, itchy and a little rough to the touch. It is incredibly common and can become more apparent as we age. You may find that your skin becomes drier in the winter with low temperatures outside, heating on inside, and hotter showers or baths. Skincare for dry skin will always focus on soothing irritation and boosting hydration. Start your routine with cleansers such as Emma Hardie’s iconic Moringa Cleansing Balm, before patting over a little of REN’s Perfect Canvas Essence. Fresh Element’s Hydrate Daily Serum can be used day or night, while Clinique’s Moisture Surge is perfect under make-up and delivers up to 72 hours of hydration.

Extra dry patches can be treated with Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream or Weleda’s Skin Food. The ultra-rich formula of both these products can transform skin in a matter of moments, while deep-treating the area with regular use.

Skincare for combination skin

Combination skin is exactly that – a mix of dry and oily areas across your face. You’ll most likely be oily through your T-zone (forehead, down the nose and a little on the chin), and drier on your cheeks, though this can vary. People with combination skin often need to change their skincare routine as the seasons change with a stronger focus on hydration in the winter and oil maintenance in the summer.

The key to skincare for combination skin is balance and you might need to experiment with different products before you achieve this. Try Origin’s Checks & Balances frothy face wash to start your day on a blank canvas. Clinique’s Dramatically Different moisturisers come in a range of formulas – from lotions and creams to gels and jellies – to suit your level of oil. Try REN’s Ready, Steady Glow at night: it’s a gentle exfoliator that brightens and balances your skin, without drying it out.