This is a question you—or anyone—may have asked at one time or another. Maybe you wondered while looking closely at your skin in the mirror. Perhaps you were shopping for skincare products and didn’t know where to start. Or maybe a skincare professional, enthusiast, or a friend asked you in an effort to help.
Well, let’s get you some answers.
What Is Skin Type?
Your skin type is the type of skin you’re born with. It’s determined by your genetics and inherited through your family. Specifically, it's based on how much oil your follicles produce.
Every skin type benefits from a proper homecare regimen tailored to that type and its current condition.
Below, you'll find descriptions of each skin type along with suggested Sparkling Skincare by Amethyst products. All products are available for shipping. In-store availability depends on the season.
Note: Retinol is typically recommended for those in their mid to late 20s and older. A basic skincare routine usually includes 3–5 steps: cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. The minimum recommended is:
- Day: Cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen
- Night: Cleanser, serum, moisturizer
Normal Skin
Normal skin is well-balanced in oil and water. Follicles are small, so breakouts are rare. The complexion tends to be even, soft to the touch, smooth in texture, and elastic. This skin type is commonly found in people in their 20s and 30s but tends to become drier with age.
Focus: Daily nourishment and protection to prevent premature aging. Sunscreen is essential to prolong elasticity and luminosity.
Homecare Suggestions:
Borage Foaming Cleanser, Oxygen Revitalizing Cleanser, AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, 4D+ Hyaluronic Serum, Retinol Night Crème, Sage & Citrus Moisturizer, Herbal Silk Moisturizer, Rapid 7 Glow Moisturizer, Advanced Protection SPF 30
Oily Skin
Oily skin has moderate to high oil production. Hydration levels may range from good to dehydrated. Follicles often appear larger, and the skin tends to look shiny with common breakouts. The texture may feel thick or uneven due to congestion.
This skin type is often found in individuals with ancestry from hotter climates.
Focus: Regular cleansing, exfoliation (2–3 times per week), and lightweight, water-based products. Daily sunscreen helps prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from sun exposure. Bonus: oily skin tends to age slower due to natural lubrication.
Homecare Suggestions:
Dermaclenz Liquid Cleanser, Vitamin C Cleanser, AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, Herbal Blend Astringent, Blemish Control, 4D+ Hyaluronic Serum, Rapid 7 Dark Spot Corrector, Retinol Night Crème, Glycolic Renewal Gel, Sage & Citrus Moisturizer, Rapid 7 Glow Moisturizer, Advanced Protection SPF 30
Dry Skin
Dry skin has low oil production and minimal hydration. Follicles are tiny—sometimes barely visible. This skin may appear flaky, dull, and thin or rough to the touch. It's more common in people with ancestry from cold, dry climates.
Focus: Use oil-based products while also incorporating hydrating ingredients like toners and serums. Sunscreen is vital to slow signs of aging. Bonus: dry skin often has fewer breakouts due to minimal oil.
Homecare Suggestions:
Chamomile Cleansing Lotion, Oxygen Revitalizing Cleanser, Vitamin C Cleanser, Honey Almond Scrub, Ginseng Mineral Toner, Vital Hydrant Toner, 4D+ Hyaluronic Serum, Retinol Night Crème, Herbal Silk Moisturizer, Rapid 7 Glow Moisturizer, Advanced Protection SPF 30
Combination Skin
Combination skin features both oily and dry areas. Oil production tends to be higher in the T-Zone (forehead, nose, chin), while the cheeks may be dry or flaky. Follicles are more visible in oilier zones.
Focus: Balance is key. Cleanse and exfoliate routinely, use water-based products, and occasionally introduce oil-based ones during colder months. Avoid harsh ingredients and over-exfoliating. Hormones and the environment can easily disrupt this skin type. Daily sunscreen helps manage PIH and signs of aging.
Homecare Suggestions:
Borage Foaming Cleanser, Vitamin C Cleanser, AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser, Herbal Blend Astringent, Vital Hydrant Toner, 4D+ Hyaluronic Serum, Blemish Control, Retinol Night Crème, Glycolic Renewal Gel, Rapid 7 Dark Spot Corrector, Rapid 7 Glow Moisturizer, Advanced Protection SPF 30
Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin is a genetically inherited skin type. It’s important to note that sensitive skin is different from sensitized skin (a temporary condition—we’ll cover that in the next blog).
Sensitive skin may feel thin, appear red frequently, and react easily to heat or harsh products. Common examples include Rosacea and Eczema.
Focus: Stick to gentle formulas and a simple routine. Limit exfoliation to 1–2 times per week, ideally under guidance from a skincare professional or medical provider. Use physical sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) as they are gentler on the skin.
Homecare Suggestions:
Limu Facial Cleanser, Chamomile Cleansing Lotion, Vitamin C Cleanser, Honey Almond Scrub, 4D+ Hyaluronic Serum, Retinol Night Crème, Herbal Silk Moisturizer, Rapid 7 Dark Spot Corrector, Rapid 7 Glow Moisturizer, Advanced Protection SPF 30
And there you have it—the five skin types. I hope this helped you understand your skin a little better today.
Still unsure or have more questions? Message me—I'm here to help!
