What skin type am I? Here's how to find out

Proper skin care begins with a simple question: What is my skin type? Only by knowing your skin type can you choose products that truly work. Especially in Korean skin care—with its variety of serums, toners, masks, and creams—it's important to choose the right formulations.

Here you can learn how to identify your skin type and which K-Beauty skincare is best for you.

The four main skin types at a glance

1. Oily skin

• Typical characteristics: shiny complexion, enlarged pores, easy pimples.
• Skincare tip: light, oil-free moisture, gentle cleansing, mattifying products.
• Suitable: Gel creams, clarifying toners with BHA, soothing masks.

2. Dry skin

• Typical symptoms: feelings of tension, flaking, pale complexion.
• Skincare tip: Build up moisture in layers, strengthen the skin barrier.
• Suitable: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, nourishing oils in serums or creams.

3. Combination skin

• Typical features: oily T-zone, dry cheeks.
• Care tip: Balance is everything – light moisture, targeted clarification.
• Suitable: gentle cleansers, non-comedogenic gel creams, hydrating toners.

4. Sensitive skin

• Typical symptoms: redness, irritation, product irritation.
• Care tip: Low-irritant formulations without fragrances, very soothing.
• Suitable: Aloe Vera, Centella Asiatica (Cica), Green Tea Extract.

Mini test: How to identify your skin type

Here’s how you can easily determine your skin type:

1. Cleanse your face and dry gently.

2. Wait 30 minutes without applying any cream or serum.

3. Observe your skin:

• Oily → shiny, especially in the T-zone.
• Dry → feels tight, slightly flaky.
• Combination skin → T-zone oily, cheeks dry or normal.
• Sensitive → shows redness or itching.

Korean skincare by skin type

Whether you're a beginner or a K-Beauty fan, choosing the right products makes all the difference.

• Oily skin: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, oil-free gel creams.
• Dry skin: Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner, hyaluronic serums.
• Combination skin: light emulsions, non-comedogenic creams.
• Sensitive skin: Purito Centella Unscented Series, Cica Creams.

FAQ: Skin types and skin care

• Does my skin type change throughout the year?
  Yes, seasons and hormones can change the appearance of your skin.
• Can I have combination skin and still be sensitive?
  Yes, skin types and sensitivities can be combined.
• Which skin type ages faster?
  Dry skin often shows wrinkles earlier, oily skin is more likely to show blemishes.
• Do I need a different routine for each skin type?
  The basis is similar (cleansing, moisturizing, protection) – the products differ depending on the skin type.

Conclusion

The answer to the question "What skin type am I?" is crucial for optimally caring for your skin. With Korean products, you'll find a gentle and effective solution for every type – from hydrating essences to soothing cica creams.

This is how you can achieve healthy, balanced and radiant skin step by step.