MEN’S SKINCARE 101 – HOW TO FIGURE OUT YOUR SKIN TYPE

You wash your face, apply some moisturiser, maybe even throw in a serum but your skin still breaks out or feels off. Sound familiar? That’s probably because your skincare routine isn’t built for your skin type, so understanding your skin is the first step to building a skincare routine that works. Once you know your skin’s needs, finding the right routine becomes simpler, more effective and far less frustrating. Read on as we break down the different skin types and how to care for each one the right way.

Oily Skin

If your skin often looks shiny just a few hours after cleansing, especially in your T zone (forehead, nose and chin), you likely have oily skin. This skin type produces excess sebum, which can clog pores and lead to blackheads, blemishes and acne.

Oily skin tends to feel greasy to the touch and may show enlarged pores or dark spots caused by clogged pores. It’s important to avoid drying ingredients or overly harsh cleansers, as they can trigger your skin to produce even more oil. A balanced routine that controls oil while protecting your skin barrier is essential.

Ingredients to Look For

Dry Skin

Dry skin often feels tight, rough, or flaky, especially after washing. It may look dull and show signs of redness or irritation. This skin type lacks moisture and struggles to maintain its natural oil balance, leading to discomfort and increased sensitivity.

Avoiding hot showers and alcohol-based products is key, as they can strip away the remaining natural oils and worsen dryness. Dry skin needs nourishing care to restore moisture, soften the skin texture and protect against environmental stress.

Ingredients to Look For

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin reacts quickly to products or environmental changes. Redness, irritation, burning, or itching are all signs of this skin type. Even common ingredients or fragrances can cause discomfort.

If your skin often becomes irritated after shaving or trying new products, you may need a gentler approach. Avoid products with strong fragrances or drying ingredients that can disrupt the skin barrier. The goal is to keep your routine simple and soothing.

Ingredients to Look For

Combination Skin

Combination skin has a mix of characteristics. For instance, you may notice an oily T zone paired with dry or normal skin on the cheeks and jawline. This can make it difficult to find one product that works across your entire face.

Be mindful of using oil-control products only where needed and richer creams where skin feels dry. Overusing the wrong product across the face may either increase breakouts or make some areas feel dry and tight.

Ingredients to Look For

Normal Skin

Normal skin feels comfortable, looks even and doesn't show signs of excess oil or dryness. You may notice minimal oil in your T zone and an overall healthy-looking complexion. However, even though this skin type is balanced, it still needs daily care. Neglecting a proper routine or overloading it with unnecessary activities can upset the natural balance and lead to issues over time.

Best Ingredients to Look For:

The Right Skincare Routine for You

No matter your skin type, the basics are the same: cleanse, moisturise and protect. From there, you can add targeted treatments to address specific concerns like acne, blackheads, or ageing that includes any specific ingredients. A consistent skincare routine can help improve your skin's texture, tone and structure over time. Adjust it based on seasonal changes, product reactions, or skin concerns as they arise.

• Cleanse daily to remove dead skin cells, oil and impurities
  
• Moisturise with a product that suits your skin type
  
• Protect with SPF to prevent damage from UV rays
  
• Exfoliate once or twice a week to help improve appearance
  
• Use the right products to avoid clogging pores or worsening concerns
  
  

Skincare Solutions for All Skin Types from Barbology London

At Barbology London, we believe skincare should be simple, effective and sustainable. That’s why we create high-quality men’s skincare using natural, plant-based ingredients like tea tree, avocado, jojoba and argan oils. All our products are vegan, cruelty-free free and paraben-free and are developed in the UK. Our mission is to make skincare inclusive, ethical and effortless, so you can build a routine that works and feel confident every day, no matter your skin type.