Understanding one's skin type

I have always been grateful for the skin I was given, not because I have perfect skin which I believe no one does but because I haven't had serious skin problems like acne or very dry skin. I had many friends who were affected by acne and I understand it's not easy to live with it comfortably. But I also know that there are several skin care and medical products which can make acne less severe and can reduce it slowly. So if you have acne don't give up but continue searching for the best skin care routine for yourself.

My facial skin can be defined as combination type, although it is much more complicated than that. I tend to have an oily T zone and dry cheecks and sides of the chin. When I said that it's not as simple as placing it in one category I was refering to the fact that notwithstanding my shiny T zone I still can get dry in that zone since my skin is also very sensitive and I am affected negatively by several products and the cold weather.
If I was to describe my face right now I would say it is shiny in T zone and a bit dry in the cheecks. Currently my main skin concerns are large pores and blackheads on my nose and the portion of the cheeks close to the nose. I also have few closed comedones on my forehead which look transparent so they are not really very visible and I also have one pustule every now and then. I just got one this week and I am hoping it quickly heals. I also tend to get some redness on my nose and the portion of the cheecks close to my nose. Finally I have some blemishes on my chin .

If you would like to determine what skin type you have I suggest you to go on the Clinique website and take their skin consultation (you can click on the link below). http://www.clinique.co.uk/diagnostics/skin_consultation_quiz/index.tmpl
You simply have to follow the steps and they will give you a summary of your skin type and main concerns as well as suggest products suitable for you. You can also ask your beautician whenever you go for a facial and if you haven't done one in a while I recommend it. In fact if you intend changing your face skin care products, the best way to start this is by having a facial so that you start using the products on a new clean face. Keep in mnd that is normal to have some blemishes after a facial but they should disappear in few days.

In the following post I will talk about my current skin care routine. Hope you are finding these posts interesting!