Did you know that each skin type reacts differently to each ingredient?

Commercial products made for all skin types may not be the best bet for your skin! That's why knowing your unique skin type is so essential for skin care.

Everyone's skin is unique, but there are a few common skin types that can help you determine which one suits your skin best. The three main skin types are commonly referred to as oily, normal/combination, and dry. Here are two easy ways to determine your skin type at home:

• The abstract method

Cleanse your face thoroughly with a mild cleanser and pat it dry. Leave skin bare (and do not apply any additional moisturizers, serums, or treatments). After 30 minutes, examine your cheeks, chin, nose, and forehead for shine. After another 30 minutes, assess whether your skin feels thirsty, especially if you smile or make any other facial expressions. If your skin feels tight, you likely have dry skin. If there is noticeable shine on your nose and forehead, you likely have normal/combination skin. If there is shine on your cheeks in addition to your forehead and nose, you likely have oily skin.

• Blotting paper method

This method is much faster and often an excellent tool for distinguishing between oily and dry skin types. Gently pat a blotting paper over different areas of your face. Hold the paper up to the light to determine the amount of visible oil. If the paper picks up little or no oil, you likely have dry skin. If the blotting paper reveals oil from the T-zone, you have normal/combination skin. Finally, if the blotting paper is saturated with oil, you most likely have oily skin.

• How do I take care of my skin?

Your skin is your body's largest organ, and it will absorb anything you put on it. If you're not careful about the ingredients in your skincare products, you could be using harsh chemicals and allergens on your skin without even realizing it. You could even be experiencing skin problems caused by your skincare routine!

1. Take care of your skin by cleansing and moisturizing it daily and using gentle products.
2. It's okay to sweat occasionally, but leaving sweat on your skin can cause acne and irritation. Wash your face twice a day and whenever you sweat. Washing gets rid of oil, dirt, bacteria, and other harmful substances that accumulate on your skin throughout the day. Wash your face in the morning and evening to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
3. Apply cleanser with your fingertips or a soft washcloth. While exfoliating your skin occasionally can give it a healthy glow, over-exfoliation can cause irritation. Be gentle on your face and wash it with your fingers instead of a sponge or washcloth. When you shower or bathe, use a soft washcloth on your body if you want a little gentle exfoliation.
4. If you have a skin condition like psoriasis, don't use washcloths, loofahs, sponges, or scrub brushes. Stick to gently cleansing your skin with your hands.
5. Rinse the cleanser thoroughly when you're finished. Even a gentle cleanser can irritate your skin if you don't rinse it off after washing! Use warm water and your hands to gently rinse away any residue left on your skin. If you like, you can rinse your face with cool water when you're finished cleansing. The cold temperature will temporarily tighten your skin and close your pores.
6. If you have dry skin, apply a little moisturizer immediately after patting your skin dry, while your skin is still slightly damp.

Don't forget that taking care of your skin and pampering it should be a daily habit, not a reaction to skin problems caused by your neglect!