What Is Normal Skin Type?

The normal skin type is perfectly balanced, meaning it is neither too oily nor too dry. Those with a normal skin type usually have small pores, a smooth and even skin tone, no breakouts, and no red or scaly patches of skin. Normal skin is the easiest to take care of, and only requires a basic skincare regimen to keep it looking its best. An individual with the normal skin type will sometimes find that her skin is more oily or dry than usual, and suddenly has different skincare needs. Such changes can be caused by anything from a change in hormones to a change of seasons.

While dry skin and oily skin have special skincare needs, normal skin type only requires basic and simple skincare. The normal skin type is characterized by small pores and smooth, even skin. Normal skin usually isn’t affected by the things that can plague oily skin, like shininess and blackheads. Unlike dry skin, normal skin won’t feel tight after washing, and won’t have red or scaly patches. The normal skin type usually doesn’t require as much makeup to even out the skin tone, hide flaws, or cover up blemishes.

Someone with a normal skin type should wash her face twice a day, with a cleanser especially made for normal skin. Next, apply an alcohol-free toner, and wait a few minutes for it to dry before using a moisturizer that is neither too light nor too heavy. A moisturizer that is too light can leave the skin feeling dry and tight, while one that is too heavy can make the skin feel greasy and look shiny. After moisturizing, it is important to use a sun block to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful ways. Using a moisturizer or foundation that already contains sun block is an easy way to cut a step out of a skincare regimen and make the process a little faster.

Some who have a normal skin type will find that the skin in the T-Zone — the forehead, nose and chin — will sometimes become unusually oily. This is called combination skin, and the skin in the oily areas needs to be treated differently than the normal skin on the rest of the face. Instead of a toner, one should use an astringent in the T-Zone to remove excess oil and help prevent breakouts. Either forgo using moisturizer in the T-Zone, or use a very light, oil-free moisturizer in that area.