It can be frustrating to constantly struggle with a skin condition that leaves your face oily and prone to breakouts. You might try products that promise to help but instead further aggravate your skin.

If this is the case for you, you might be using the wrong treatments for your skin type which is causing an imbalance in your skin. It’s important to understand the difference between your skin type and skin conditions so you can implement the best skincare routine possible. Understanding the differences can eliminate your skin concerns and give you the perfect skin you’ve always wanted.

SKIN TYPES VS. SKIN CONDITIONS

Trying to figure out your skin type can be confusing with so many technical words used in the skincare industry. Often, people interchangeably use the terms 'skin type' and 'skin condition.’ Believe it or not, these two terms are completely different. To care for your skin properly, begin by identifying your skin type.

THE 5 SKIN TYPES

Skin type refers to the amount of oil production in your skin. It is determined by genetics and characterized by five main categories: normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive.
The type of skin you have determines how your skin reacts to different products and environmental factors. For example, if you have dry skin, spending a summer day outside might increase fine lines and flakiness, while someone with oily skin would experience excess oil and possible acne breakouts.

Once you know which skin type you have, you can establish an effective skincare routine.

NORMAL SKIN

Normal skin is balanced and has a moderate level of oil production. The skin doesn't feel too dry or oily. People with normal skin typically have small pores and an even complexion. If you have normal skin, you'll experience less sensitivity to products, which makes it easier to treat common skin conditions.

DRY SKIN

Dry skin often lacks oil and moisture, which results in a dull, rough complexion. The skin may feel tight and itchy and may also have visible flaking or redness. People with dry skin usually have fine lines and wrinkles, which makes premature aging a common concern.
If you have dry skin, incorporate a moisturizer that increases skin hydration, like our Vitamin E Cream.

OILY SKIN

Oily skin results from excess sebum, which makes the skin shiny and prone to acne. Those with oily skin commonly experience enlarged pores, blackheads and whiteheads.

There are pros and cons to each skin type. While you might experience more breakouts, oily skin ages slower than other skin types because the oils keep the skin hydrated.

Although oily skin can be frustrating to manage, many products reduce excess oil, such as our Exfoliating Cleanser with Salicylic Acid.

COMBINATION SKIN

Combination skin is a mixture of both oily and dry skin. Typically, the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) is oily while the cheeks are dry.

Combination skin can be tricky to address because different areas require different products. For example, you may need a gentle cleanser for your dry cheeks and a non-comedogenic moisturizer for your oily T-zone to maintain a balanced complexion.

SENSITIVE SKIN

Sensitive skin easily reacts to various irritants found in skincare products or the environment. You may experience redness, itching, dryness and a burning sensation, especially after using certain skincare or makeup products.

Manage sensitive skin by avoiding triggers and using gentle products that promote healing. Consider incorporating products specifically formulated for sensitive skin, like our Protective Skin Serum with Ceramides. This professional skincare product is a lightweight serum formulated to reduce inflammation, heal the skin and reinforce the skin barrier.

HOW TO ASSESS YOUR SKIN TYPE

Here's one way to gauge your skin type at home:

1. Cleanse your face: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser. This step will remove makeup, dirt and excess oil to provide a clean slate for the test.
2. Wait for an hour: After cleansing, leave your skin bare and do not apply any products. Wait for about an hour. This allows your skin to return to its natural state—its true skin type.
3. Examine your skin: After the waiting period, closely inspect your skin. Is there shine and oiliness? Are there flaky, dry patches? Or is there redness and irritation?

Once you determine your skin type, look for skincare products that are formulated for that type. You will find that most GlyMed formulas work for multiple skin types if not all five of them.

5 COMMON SKIN CONDITIONS

In contrast to skin types, skin conditions refer to temporary or chronic issues that affect your skin's health and appearance. People with any skin type can suffer from a skin condition, and it’s especially disheartening if nothing you try seems to work. 
Empower your skin routine by understanding the skin conditions you have so you can treat them effectively.

ACNE

Acne results from clogged pores and excess oil production. It's most common in teenagers, but adults can also experience acne because of hormones, stress or genetics.

There’s always a solution for hard-to-manage breakouts. Use professional skincare products that don’t use fillers or artificial ingredients known for clogging pores as these products will make managing acne much easier. Try a targeted serum that contains benzoyl peroxide to reduce acne-causing bacteria, as seen in our Blemish Control No. 5.

AGING CONCERNS

As we age, our skin goes through changes like decreased collagen production and slower cell turnover. These changes can cause fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.

Combat aging concerns by using products that stimulate healing and protect against environmental aggressors. Our CBD Age Delay Dew is a great option that restores radiance and firmness to your skin.

DRYNESS

Dryness is a skin condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their skin type. Elements such as cold, dry weather, harsh soaps, hot showers and indoor heating can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause patches of flaky skin that are ne
ver fun to spot in the mirror.

If you notice signs of dryness, adjust your skincare routine accordingly and you’ll have balanced, radiant skin in no time. Easily hydrate your skin with our Ultra Hydro Gel, so it feels soft and supple all year round.

HYPERPIGMENTATION

Hyperpigmentation refers to darkened patches of skin that occur from an increase in melanin. You might see a darkened jawline or abnormal specks on your cheeks after a particularly bad breakout or a hot summer in the sun, but there’s a solution in sight. 
Prevent and reduce hyperpigmentation by using sunscreen daily and incorporating products like our Daily Skin Clarifier, which works to control the overproduction of melanin.

ROSACEA

If you’re fair-skinned and often deal with unwelcome redness or visible blood vessels on your face, you most likely have rosacea. By avoiding triggers like sun exposure, stress or spicy food, you can nurture your skin back to health!

Combat rosacea by incorporating spot treatment products that are effective for managing this condition at home. Our Mattifying Sulfur Masque can be beneficial for continued rosacea therapy. Additionally, prioritize daily use of products with adequate sun protection to minimize aggravation and unwanted redness.

CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL FOR ACCURATE SKINCARE CONDITION ADVICE

Understanding your skin is difficult, so it’s okay if you’re struggling! The skincare experts at GlyMed are passionate about helping you heal your skin and are more than willing to curate a skincare routine that goes beyond the surface. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice that will give you your confidence back!

In the meantime, most products will specify which skin concerns they target, making it easier for you to find the right one. Look out for specific ingredients that are beneficial for your condition, such as:

• Acne: Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
• Aging concerns: Hyaluronic acid, peptides and antioxidants.
• Dryness: Hydrating ingredients like ceramides, glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
• Hyperpigmentation: Vitamin C, kojic acid and niacinamide.
• Rosacea: Anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera.

Remember, addressing your skin conditions starts with understanding them. Take care of yourself and your skin will follow suit!

HOW TO TAILOR PRODUCTS TO YOUR SKIN TYPE

Make sure you're using suitable products for your skin type, no matter what conditions you may have. Here are our tips and tricks for knowing what's best:
Normal Skin: You can use a wide range of products. Just choose what works best for your specific skin concerns.

• Dry Skin: Products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides can replenish your skin's moisture barrier.
• Oily Skin: Look for products that contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Avoid harsh ingredients that can strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Combination Skin: Use a gentle cleanser and products with hyaluronic acid to maintain balance in your skin.
• Sensitive Skin: Stick to products that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.

With GlyMed’s comprehensive range of science-backed products and expert consultants by your side, you're not just investing in skincare; you're investing in your confidence and well-being. Get the skin you've always dreamed of by finding the nearest GlyMed Pro for professional products and advice.