Know the Proper Way to Determine Your Skin Type

When it comes to skincare, the first step isn’t buying the newest product or following the latest social media trend, it’s knowing your skin type. Why? Because using the wrong products for your skin can leave you feeling frustrated, oily, or even more dry and irritated than before.

The good news? Determining your skin type is easier than you think. Let’s break it down.

The 5 Common Skin Types

1. Normal Skin

   • Balanced—not too oily, not too dry.

   • Few visible blemishes.

   • Feels comfortable throughout the day.

2. Oily Skin

   • Shiny appearance, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).

   • Larger, more visible pores.

   • Prone to acne and blackheads.

3. Dry Skin

   • Feels tight or rough, especially after cleansing.

   • May show flaking or dullness.

   • Fine lines are more noticeable.

4. Combination Skin

   • Oily in the T-zone, dry or normal on the cheeks.

   • Can be tricky because it needs a balance of care.

5. Sensitive Skin

   1. Reacts easily to products, weather, or stress.

   2. Can burn, sting, or turn red with certain ingredients.

   3. Needs extra gentle care.

Simple Ways to Determine Your Skin Type

1. The Bare-Faced Test

• Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.

• Pat dry and leave your skin product-free for about an hour.

• After one hour, check how your skin feels:

  • Shiny → Oily

  • Tight/dull → Dry

  • Shiny T-zone + dry cheeks → Combination

  • Calm and comfortable → Normal

  • Red or irritated → Sensitive

2. The Blotting Sheet Test

1. Gently press blotting paper on different areas of your face.

2. Hold it up to the light:

   • Lots of oil all over = Oily

   • Little to no oil = Dry

   • Oil only in T-zone = Combination

   • Minimal oil with comfort = Normal

3. The Sensitivity Check

• If your skin often stings, burns, or flushes after new products or sun exposure → Sensitive skin.

Why This Matters

When you know your skin type, you can confidently choose products that work with your skin, not against it. At Cornerstone Deluxe, our formulas are crafted to respect different skin needs, whether that means gentle hydration, oil control, or soothing botanicals for sensitive types.