Acne is a common skin condition that often occurs in teenagers during puberty but can occur at any age including adulthood. Some of the causes of acne include hormonal imbalances, diet, genetics, vitamin deficiency and stress. The real explanation may be a complex mix of many of these factors.

Characteristics

• Feels oily to the touch
• Inflamed skin
• Blackheads
• Whiteheads
• Pustules/cysts

Oily is characterised by visible excessive oil flow. It is important to treat this skin with care as the use of harsh products to reduce the oil may cause problems such as sensitivity or additional oil flow.

Characteristics

• Shiny
• Enlarged pores
• Coarse in texture
• Sallow in colour
• Feels oily to the touch
• Blemishes may be a common occurrence

The most common skin type that is most often characterised by an oilier T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and comfortable cheeks. The degree and areas of oiliness will vary in different skins.

Characteristics

• Oily/shiny in certain areas
• Blemishes may be apparent in oilier areas
• Medium pore size

This skin is dry in some areas and comfortable in others. The level of dryness varies and may change depending on environmental and climatic conditions.

Characteristics

• Generally even skin texture with small pores
• Dry to the touch in certain areas
• May experience occasional flaking in dry areas

This skin lacks moisture and/or oil flow and therefore rapidly loses moisture and dehydrates easily. Shows the visible signs of aging more than other skins.

Characteristics

• Pores are small
• Visible flaking in some areas
• Skin can feel tight especially after incorrect product use
• Tendency to be sensitive at times

Sensitised skin can be hereditary or it may be brought on as result of using incorrect products, illness, medications or due to environmental factors.

Characteristics

• Fine textured skin that is prone to redness
• Easily irritated by products or certain ingredients
• Sensitive to sun exposure, heat, cold
• Prone to dryness and dehydration