What's your skin type? How to care for its unique needs

Knowing your skin type will help you determine the most suitable beauty products and habits to keep you looking young and healthy for longer.

Here are some of the most distinguishable characteristics of the different skin types to help you decide which one describes you best.

Normal skin is neither oily nor dry.

• It's not particularly sensitive and only rarely has blemishes, with pores only slightly visible. Overall, it's a fuss-free, easy-to-care-for, radiant complexion that feels supple and doesn't lose elasticity.
• It requires very little care, as it is naturally clean and healthy and it continues to look good as you age.

Dry skin tends to look dull or rough.

• Lines and wrinkles become visible sooner, since the skin loses its elasticity and tends to crack easily. Red patches and itchiness are common, and skin can become inflamed or peel in extreme weather conditions.
• Hormonal changes, medications and certain cosmetics can intensify the problem, so try to use mild cleansers and a gentle moisturizer.
• Choose beauty products that are specifically designed for dry skin and don't scrub too roughly when cleansing.

Oily skin is usually shiny and may be prone to pimples and blackheads.

• Pores are always visible, and blemishes tend to appear as the weather changes.
• Although most people have oily skin during puberty, stress or intense humidity can also be the culprit. Oily skin requires attentive cleaning and looks best with minimal makeup.
• Avoid heavy products, rich lotions or anything shimmery, and opt instead for a fresher matte look. The good news is that people with oily skin tend to have fewer wrinkles later in life.

Combination skin features dry cheeks and an oily chin, forehead and nose.

• If this describes your skin, use a rich moisturizer on your cheeks and eye area, but treat the rest of the face according to the tips for oily skin above.

Sensitive skin is easily irritated by weather changes and it can feel tight or develop itchy red patches without warning.

• To avoid inflammation, be careful when choosing beauty products.
• Read the packaging carefully, ask for opinions, conduct research online and be prepared to pay slightly more for quality products.
• Remember to always first apply a small amount of the product onto your hand to test for reactions before using it on your face.

No matter your skin type, there are steps that make sense for everyone to follow.

• Use sunscreen daily and avoid the sun whenever possible.
• Quit smoking, eat well, and stay hydrated to keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.
• Avoid alcohol and get adequate rest and exercise, breathe fresh air, clean your face thoroughly every night, and moisturize every morning.

All skin types can be cared for successfully if you follow these steps on a daily basis.