It is commonly understood that there are five fundamental skin types; however an individual's skin type can alter anytime during the lifespan owing to ailments or other reasons. The five basic skin care types include: Oily skin type, combination skin type, sensitive skin type, dry skin type and sun-damaged skin type. The skin type of any individual is highly dependent upon the amount of sebum the oil glands beneath the skin produces. Other important factors that largely influence the skin type of an individual, throughout his/her life include genetic factors, dietary modifications, stress levels, different types of medication and skincare regimen.

Dry skin

Here is some information with regards to the different types of skin among individuals, and to give an idea how to care for the various types of skin:

What is Dry skin?
Dry Skin Type - is the result of abnormally inactive or passive oil glands that do not develop adequate sebum to maintain a natural lubrication on the skin's surface. Dry skin types have a toned-down appearance, is dry to the touch and can also be quite itchy and sensitive. It is necessary to hydrate the skin externally and internally on a regular basis through adequate consumption of water and the use of external applications such as moisturizers and rich moisturizing emollients or preparations.

What is oily skin?
Oily Skin Type is the type of skin that results when the oil glands develop excess sebum. This leads to skin that displays an oily and slippery quality with a shiny appearance. Individuals with oily skin types frequently experience large, obstructed pores. An oily skin type is highly prone to develop acne, (an inflammatory disease involving the sebaceous glands of the skin; characterized by papules or pustules or comedones) when the excess sebum produced by the skin gets trapped inside the skin leading to pus-filled lesions. In spite of these disadvantages, oily skin mostly maintains a youthful look and is far suppler as age progresses, than any other skin types. Oily skin can be improved by undergoing regular steam treatments and herbal masks.

What is normal skin type?
Normal Skin types - have balanced production of sebum by the oil glands that produce the secretion at a moderate rate. The sebum production being within reasonable or average limits results in a normal skin type that is neither too oily nor too dry. Normal skin type appearance seems fresh, moisturized, and vibrant. Normal skin types do not requires much attention as compared to other skin types but can be maintained with the help of frequent purifying, toning and hydrating techniques.