There are so many factors at play when attempting to establish an effective skin care routine. From determining your skin type and condition to deciding which products to purchase, a huge margin for error exists. It’s not as easy as picking one with nice packaging or the one that best suits our budget – we need products that are tailored specifically to our skin’s needs, and that’s easier said than done.
We asked four of Australia’s top skin experts what is the biggest mistake women usually make when determining their skin types. They all agreed that one of the biggest mistakes we make is confusing dehydrated skin with dry skin.
The biggest mistake
Skin care and laser expert for Face Plus Medispa, Samantha Menzies says “without a doubt, the biggest mistake I see is that most women confuse a dehydrated skin with a dry one.” She says that whilst the two skin types appear the same, they require completely different treatments to correct.
Beauty therapist and skin specialist for Mecca Cosmetica, Laura Berger agrees, and adds “a true dry skin is relatively uncommon, while almost every Australian skin is dehydrated, simply because of the climate and the prevalence of air conditioning and heating.”
The resulting damage
Education manager for the International Dermal Institute, Emma Hobson told us that without a proper skin type diagnosis, selecting the wrong products for your skin type is highly likely. Menzies agrees and stresses that there could be more adverse effects if the wrong treatment is pursued as she says “it can lead to adult acne, congestion, redness and broken blood vessels, dull skin and premature wrinkles.”
The expert tip
Determining the difference between the two skin types no longer has to be a gruelling task. Berger sums up the difference simply, stating “a dry skin lacks oil whereas a dehydrated skin lacks water.” She also says the tell tale signs of a dry complexion are small or invisible pores and skin that’s thin, rough and papery to the touch.
The simple solution
In addition to paying attention to how your skin looks, feels and behaves throughout the day, all four skin experts recommended seeking the advice of a professional skin therapist to address specific skin concerns and needs. Ultimately, education specialist for Jurlique, Danielle Williams says investing in having your skin analysed by a professional “will save you time and money in the long run as you won’t go through the process of purchasing unsuitable products for your skin.”
For those with more specific skin imperfections and concerns here’s a guide to determine what your skin is trying to tell you.
This article originally appeared on InStyle
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