4.2.1. Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, and Sensitive Skin
💡 First Principle: Each skin type has a characteristic balance of sebum production and moisture retention. Correctly identifying the type guides every product selection and treatment decision. Using the wrong products for a skin type — particularly over-stripping oily skin or over-moisturizing oily areas — worsens the condition.
| Skin Type | Characteristics | Typical Treatment Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Balanced sebum, small pores, even tone, minimal issues | Maintain balance; standard products |
| Dry | Low sebum, tight feeling, fine lines visible, flaking possible | Hydrating cleansers, rich moisturizers, avoid alcohol-based products |
| Oily | Excess sebum, enlarged pores, shine, prone to breakouts | Gentle cleansing, lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizers, clay masks |
| Combination | Oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), dry or normal cheeks | Zone-specific products; different treatment for different areas |
| Sensitive | Easily irritated, redness, reactive to many products | Minimal ingredients, fragrance-free, avoid aggressive treatments |
Sensitive skin deserves special attention in esthetics because it requires extra caution with product selection, chemical exfoliants, extractions, and electrical treatments. Many clients self-identify as sensitive — patch testing is especially important for this type.
⚠️ Exam Trap: Combination skin is the most common skin type, and exam questions may present it as two separate areas to treat differently. Do not apply a single treatment protocol uniformly to a combination skin client — the T-zone and the dry areas have different needs.
Reflection Question: A client describes their skin as "sometimes oily and sometimes dry depending on the season." How would you classify this, and what would you want to assess further during the consultation?
