Skin problems: better understanding your epidermis
Lucas PINOS
17 min
Summary
Your skin is your most attractive asset. It plays a vital role in your appearance and well-being. But, like everyone else, you can experience minor skin problems – dryness , acne, irritations… it can happen!
But don't panic: it's all a matter of understanding. Knowing what's happening to your skin will allow you to react with the right actions.
The first step? Identify your skin type ! This is the key to taking the right action and achieving a radiant complexion.
Causes of skin problems
Not knowing your skin type
Without knowing your skin type, you can quickly find yourself in a skin mess !
A simple dryness can become a real storm of tightness; a simple shine can turn into a disco ball effect. 🌟
Understanding your skin type helps you choose the perfect skincare product and avoid skin problems. 😵🧩
So be a detective and learn to easily recognize your skin type :
Normal skin: the perfect balance
Normal skin is a perfect balance between sebum and hydration . Neither too dry nor too oily, it is soft, luminous and has a tight skin texture. However, even normal skin requires daily care to maintain this harmony (yes, really!).
Oily skin: ultra acne-prone
Oily skin is characterized by excessive sebum production , causing shine, enlarged pores , and a dull complexion. Contrary to popular belief, it can lack hydration, as excess sebum tries to compensate for this lack. Skincare must therefore regulate it while properly hydrating the skin. Although more prone to imperfections such as blackheads and pimples , oily skin has the advantage of aging more gracefully. A major asset!
Dry skin: moisturize or nourish, that is the question
Dry skin is characterized by insufficient sebum production , leading to a feeling of tightness , redness and flaking . Unlike dehydrated skin, which lacks water, dry skin lacks lipids, which weakens the skin's protective barrier. As we age, this type of skin is more prone to the appearance of fine lines .
Combination skin: the secret to a unique combination
Combination skin combines different skin types in different areas of the face. Typically, the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) is oily, while the cheeks can be normal or dry. This characteristic requires a dual skincare approach : light, mattifying products for the T-zone, and more hydrating products for the drier areas.
How to accurately identify your skin type?
Test the sheet of paper trick
The paper test is a simple method to determine your skin type :
🫧 Clean your face and wait for an hour.
🤧 Gently apply a tissue to your entire face.
👀 Observe the result:
Greasy marks all over the tissue usually indicate oily skin.
Prints only on the T-zone suggest combination skin.
No trace? Your skin is probably normal or dry.
You can also observe your skin to identify specific characteristics. After your shower or throughout the day, ask yourself:
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Does my skin shine all over? Probably oily skin.
Is it tight or flaky? Chances are it's dry.
Does it only shine in the T-zone? It looks like combination skin.
Neither? Normal skin (lucky you!).
Also pay close attention to the size of your pores , the presence of imperfections , and the general texture of your skin.
Differentiating between skin type and condition: why is it important?
Skin type is a more stable factor, defined primarily by your genetics. Your skin can be oily, dry, combination, or normal. However, skin condition can vary depending on the seasons, your lifestyle, the skincare you use, or even internal factors like stress or hormones. It's therefore essential not to confuse these two concepts to adopt a suitable skincare routine! 🧼
Dehydrated skin: when the epidermis lacks water
Dehydrated skin is a skin condition that can affect anyone, regardless of skin type. It occurs when the epidermis lacks water, which can make it dull, rough, and prone to tightness. Unlike dry skin (which lacks lipids), this skin condition only requires hydration.
The signs:
Dull complexion;
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A feeling of tightness , especially after cleaning;
The appearance of fine lines, particularly around the eyes and mouth;
Mild flaking (peeling skin).
The main causes :
A dry or air-conditioned environment;
The use of unsuitable care products (cleansers that are too aggressive);
Insufficient water consumption;
Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection.
Reactive and sensitized skin: a hypersensitivity duo
Reactive skin and sensitized skin share common characteristics, manifesting as hypersensitivity to external and internal factors.
These skin conditions require special attention to avoid discomfort.
The signs:
Sudden redness ;
A feeling of warmth or tingling;
Itching and tightness;
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Irritations and plaques.
The main causes:
Exposure to sudden changes in temperature (wind, cold, heat);
Chronic stress or fatigue;
The use of aggressive or unsuitable cosmetic products;
A polluted environment and unprotected sun exposure.
Dehydrated skin: when the epidermis lacks water
Dehydrated skin is a skin condition that can affect anyone, regardless of skin type. It occurs when the epidermis lacks water, which can make it dull, rough, and prone to tightness. Unlike dry skin (which lacks lipids), this skin condition only requires hydration.
The signs:
Dull complexion;
A feeling of tightness , especially after cleaning;
-
The appearance of fine lines, particularly around the eyes and mouth;
Mild flaking (peeling skin).
The main causes :
A dry or air-conditioned environment;
The use of unsuitable care products (cleansers that are too aggressive);
Insufficient water consumption;
Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection.
Reactive and sensitized skin: a hypersensitivity duo
Reactive skin and sensitized skin share common characteristics, manifesting as hypersensitivity to external and internal factors.
These skin conditions require special attention to avoid discomfort.
The signs:
Sudden redness ;
A feeling of warmth or tingling;
Itching and tightness;
Irritations and plaques.
The main causes:
-
Exposure to sudden changes in temperature (wind, cold, heat);
Chronic stress or fatigue;
The use of aggressive or unsuitable cosmetic products;
A polluted environment and unprotected sun exposure.
Atopic skin: ultra-sensitive skin
Atopic skin is a chronic skin condition characterized by redness, itching, and intense dryness. It often manifests as eczema and requires specific care to soothe irritation.
The signs:
Severe drought;
Itching;
The appearance of red patches, sometimes oozing.
The main causes :
A genetic predisposition;
An allergic reaction;
A dry or polluted environment.
Acne-prone skin: a daily struggle
Acne is a skin condition often linked to overproduction of sebum and clogged pores . It can affect all age groups, although it is more common in adolescents and young adults. Acne-prone skin is generally associated with blemishes, pimples, and blackheads.
The signs:
The presence of pimples (papules, pustules) or cysts;
Blackheads or whiteheads on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin);
Residual marks after the pimples have disappeared.
The main causes:
Excess sebum;
Hormonal changes;
Poor lifestyle and/or stress .
Grainy skin: an uneven texture
Grainy skin is characterized by an uneven surface, often caused by a buildup of dead skin cells or a lack of exfoliation. It can also be linked to a poor skincare routine, the use of unsuitable products, or an unbalanced lifestyle.
The signs:
A rough feeling to the touch;
A dull complexion;
Small irregularities on the surface of the skin.
The main causes:
The accumulation of dead cells;
Lack of exfoliation;
Care not adapted to skin type.
Hyperpigmentation: these spots that become ingrained
Hyperpigmented skin is characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the epidermis, often caused by an overproduction of melanin . This skin condition is usually linked to sun exposure, acne scars, or hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy).
The signs:
Localized brown or dark spots, often on the cheeks, forehead or chin;
A more marked appearance after exposure to the sun.
The main causes:
Exposure to UV rays without sun protection;
Hormonal changes;
Scars left by acne.
Mature skin: the signs of aging
Mature skin is a skin condition that occurs with age. It is marked by a loss of elasticity, firmness, and often sagging skin. Wrinkles and fine lines become more visible, the skin appears thinner, and it may also lose its radiance. This condition is primarily due to the decreased production of collagen and elastin, two proteins essential for skin firmness and structure.
The signs:
The appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, particularly around the eyes, mouth and forehead;
Sagging skin, mainly around the oval of the face;
Duller complexion, thinner and more fragile skin;
A loss of elasticity and firmness.
The main causes:
Natural aging (biological age of the skin);
Exposure to the sun without protection (photo-aging);
The decrease in collagen and elastin production with age;
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Environmental factors such as pollution and oxidative stress.
Using unsuitable products: a real trap for your skin!
Using products that aren't right for your skin type is like pouring oil on a fire: it makes everything worse! 😅
Oily skin can become even shinier with comedogenic products; dry skin can become even more dry with unsuitable formulas – not exactly the “silky” look you’re going for!
And if you have sensitive skin , it's even more delicate: it reacts quickly to unsuitable products, with redness, tingling or tightness. To avoid these skin fiascos , opt for products that match your skin type! 🌟
Hormones and skin: the dynamic duo!
Progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, thyroid hormones… all these star hormones regulate our metabolism, but they also have an impact on our skin !
Hormonal surges, such as those of adolescence, menstrual cycles, or even certain contraceptives can increase sebum production, giving way to acne-prone skin [link?]. Changes related to (pre)menopause can lead to sagging skin and the appearance of wrinkles .
Understanding these fluctuations allows you to better manage their effects to keep your skin in top condition! 💃🧪
Environmental factors: the whims of your little face!
Air pollution and climate variations put your skin to the test , leading to premature aging, oxidative stress, and irritating effects. And each skin type reacts in its own way: oily skin? It's more prone to breakouts and blackheads because of pollutants that clog pores . Conversely, dry skin suffers in the cold, aggravating dehydration and tightness – a real headache! 🌎🌦️
Reactive skin is like delicate princesses: ultra-sensitive, it can become red, itchy and inflamed when faced with pollutants and climate changes.
Each skin type has its strengths and weaknesses, so adjust your care accordingly!
Lifestyle and diet: boost your skin with the right ingredients!
Did you know that what you put on your plate can do wonders or havoc for your skin ? Whether due to a dietary imbalance, digestive or eating disorders, or other issues, dietary deficiencies—lack of vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids—can really wreak havoc on your skin, making it dull, rough, and fragile, and even predisposing it to skin diseases .
By taking care of your diet, you will take care of your skin. 🥑✨
But that's not all: hydration is just as important. Dehydrated skin can become uncomfortable! The good news is that it's a temporary condition that can be remedied with the right steps.
Stress , lack of sleep , and excessive alcohol or tobacco use can seriously turn your face into a battlefield. Stress can cause vasodilation, inflammation, and uncontrollable sebum production, while lack of sleep makes your skin look dull and accentuates dark circles. Alcohol and tobacco dehydrate and accelerate skin aging.
Luckily, we have tips to help you maintain glowing skin despite these challenges! 🌟
The different skin problems
Many people face skin problems : stubborn pimples, unsightly blackheads, irritating red patches, or stubborn brown spots... Don't panic! You're not alone in this adventure. So, how do you navigate these dermatoses and skin problems ?
Acne: your skin can say goodbye to spots!
Ah, acne ! Between blackheads, inflamed red pimples, and deep cysts, it can really disrupt your daily life. Caused by excess sebum, clogged pores, and bacteria, acne is aggravated by hormones, stress, and unsuitable cosmetic products.
But with a few simple steps and targeted tips, you can say goodbye to acne and get your face glowing again. 🌟💥
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): How to keep your skin zen?
Do you have eczema with red, dry rashes and its infernal itching? No problem! Solutions exist to soothe your skin and better manage this skin problem .
Eczema is often triggered or aggravated by allergens, irritants, or environmental factors. Identify these triggers first to better avoid them. And discover all our tips for perfect skin! 🌿💧
Psoriasis: From plaques to glowing skin!
Psoriasis … this autoimmune disease accelerates the renewal of cells in the stratum corneum, creating an accumulation of dead cells.
The result? You end up with red, scaly patches, often adorned with silvery scales. Not only is it unsightly, but it's also uncomfortable and embarrassing on a daily basis.
Rosacea: restore radiance to your face!
Are your cheeks playing an orchestra with redness, small bumps, and blood vessels revealing themselves in the dermis? Rosacea can really disrupt your self-image. But don't let this skin problem disrupt the rhythm of your life!
For practical advice and tips on how to better manage rosacea and regain beautiful skin, click here. 🌟👀
Seborrheic dermatitis: take back control of your skin!
Seborrheic dermatitis appears as red patches with white or yellowish flakes on oilier areas such as the scalp and face.
To keep your skin in tip-top shape, adopt a gentle skincare routine and avoid harsh hair products.
Hives: Say goodbye to itching!
Are you suffering from hives, with those red, swollen, and itchy rashes? Don't panic—there are solutions to relieve these symptoms. Hives are often an allergic reaction to certain foods, medications, or other substances.
The key? Identify and avoid the allergens that trigger these flare-ups. We've also gathered some natural solutions to help reduce your itching! 🌟🔍
Skin allergies: when the skin says stop!
Skin allergies can turn your skin into a playground for itching, rashes, and sometimes even swelling and redness.
These reactions are often triggered by allergens such as certain personal care products, plants, metals, or foods. Identify these culprits and consult an allergist for appropriate treatment.🌿
Skin infections: how to react to redness and pain?
Skin infections , whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, cause redness, swelling, pain, and even discharge or crusting. Impetigo, herpes, and yeast infections are the most common examples.
Consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Maintain strict hygiene around the affected areas and choose appropriate skincare products to soothe and protect your skin. 🦠🔍
Scar: restore your skin tissue to its original radiance!
Do you find your scar a little too visible? Whether it's from acne, surgery, an injury, or a burn, there are solutions to reduce its appearance.
To make your scars less noticeable, don't forget to protect them from the sun with sunscreen. To discover the options available to improve their appearance, check out these links! ✨💪
How to establish a skincare routine adapted to your skin type?
Skincare Routine: A Necessity for All Skin Types and Conditions
Simply applying a day cream isn't enough to pamper your complexion. Here are the 4 key steps for a perfect routine:
- Cleansing: Remove impurities and sebum to prepare your face for treatment. 🧼✨
- Hydration: Nourish it with suitable creams or serums to make it plump and luminous. 🍹💧
- Targeted treatment: specifically treat your skin problems with tailored care. 🎯👋
- Sun protection: Protect it daily with an SPF cream against UV rays and aging. ☀️🛡️
Seasonal adaptation: adjust your skincare routine
The seasons influence your skin as much as the landscape! Here's how to adapt your routine:
Spring: It's spring cleaning time for your face! Exfoliate to eliminate winter toxins and wake up your skin with detox masks. 🌷
Summer: Opt for light, refreshing cleansers with a balanced pH to avoid suffocating your skin, and don't forget sunscreen to avoid sunburn. 🕶️
Fall: Deeply nourish with oils and butters to keep your skin soft and deeply hydrated despite the cold. 🍁
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Winter: To combat dryness, use rich creams and hydrating serums to deeply soothe and protect your skin. Nourishing masks will be your best allies to strengthen the skin barrier. ❄️
Did you know? Skin regenerates better at night!
Yes, at night, while you sleep, your skin works. 😉 The production of new cells increases, replacing dead cells and repairing damage caused by the sun, pollution and stress.
Blood circulation improves, delivering more nutrients and oxygen to cells. DNA repair mechanisms are more active, and skincare products applied before bed penetrate better, making creams and serums more effective.
Say goodbye to your skin problems
By identifying your skin type and your skin problems, you will be able to pamper your skin as it deserves!
With the right care and a healthy lifestyle, your skin will be radiant and glowing. 🌟
