Knowing whether your skin is dry, oily, combination, normal or sensitive makes choosing products much easier.
The gist
- Common skin types are normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive.
- A simple check: wash with a gentle cleanser, wait about 30 minutes, then notice how your skin looks and feels.
- Your skin type can change with age, climate, hormones and the products you use.
- Sensitive skin can overlap with any other skin type.
Most product labels mention skin types, but it isn’t always obvious which one you have. A quick check at home can help.
The five common skin types
| Skin type | How it usually looks and feels |
|---|---|
| Normal | Clear, not very sensitive, neither too oily nor too dry |
| Dry | Feels tight, and may look flaky or rough |
| Oily | Looks shiny, with larger-looking pores and more breakouts |
| Combination | Oily in some areas, often the forehead, nose and chin, and dry or normal elsewhere |
| Sensitive | May sting, burn or turn red after using products |
A simple at-home check
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry.
- Don’t apply any products.
- Wait about 30 minutes.
- Notice how your skin looks and feels.
If your skin feels tight, it’s likely dry. If it’s shiny all over, it’s likely oily. Shine only on your forehead, nose and chin points to combination skin. If your skin feels comfortable and looks balanced, you probably have normal skin.
Beauty tip
Check again at a different time of year. Many people find their skin is drier in winter and oilier in summer, and adjust their products with the seasons.
Matching products to your skin
- Dry skin: creamy cleansers and richer moisturizers.
- Oily skin: gel cleansers and lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers.
- Combination skin: a light moisturizer overall, with extra moisture on dry patches.
- Sensitive skin: short ingredient lists and fragrance-free products.
Whatever your type, the core of a simple skincare routine stays the same: cleanse, moisturize and protect.
Worth remembering
Persistent redness, flaking, itching or breakouts may be signs of a skin condition, such as rosacea, eczema or acne, rather than just your skin type. A board-certified dermatologist can help.
A starting point, not a label
Treat your skin type as a starting point rather than a fixed label. Pay attention to how your skin responds, and adjust your routine when things change.
You asked
Can my skin type change?
Yes. Age, hormones, the seasons and even a new medication can change how your skin behaves.
Is dehydrated skin the same as dry skin?
Not exactly. Dry skin tends to make less oil, while any skin type, even oily skin, can feel tight and short of water at times.
Should I see a dermatologist about my skin type?
You don’t need to, but a dermatologist can help if you have ongoing problems such as acne, rashes, persistent redness or very dry, itchy skin.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For skin, hair or nail problems that worry you, or before starting a new treatment if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or have a health condition, talk to a board-certified dermatologist or your doctor.
