What's Your Skin Personality?

What dictates whether or not you spend ages on a rigorous cleansing regime, or be content with a five-second splash? As children we are influenced by our mothers and as adults we are likely to emulate her routine. Friends can also influence the types of products you use and routine facials will typically inspire you to take a bit more time and care with your skin.

There are 4 personality categories when it comes to the way we look after our skin.

1. The minimalist

You favor a wash-off cleanser, and a moisturizer to make your skin feel more comfortable and less tight. You aren’t over-fussy with brands and like something that does what it says on the tube.

Pros: Someone who’s spending so little time on a skin routine needs the right products to combat oily or dry skin. So if you’re a minimalist by nature, it’s crucial to know your skin type. If you have skincare problems, look for a cleanser aimed to treat them, such as an acne cleanser, glycolic cleanser if skin is rough, or a moisturizing cleanser for dry skin.

Cons: Washing off with water is quick – but can be harsh for your skin. Minimalist typically opt for “quick” foaming cleansers. Avoid cleansers that contain sodium laureth sulphate – a harsh foaming agent that strips skin after a while and can cause sensitivity and premature aging.

If you do one thing: A pared-down skincare routine can work, but every six months change your moisturizer. This will boost cell regeneration, and is the product that makes the most difference to your skin, particularly if you aren’t using exfoliators, masks or rejuvenating serums.

2. The trend-seeker

You expect quick, visible results from your skincare, and always look for a new product that might work better than your last investment. You have several pots of moisturizers, cleansers and masks ready to use for your skin’s changing needs.

Pros: Trend seekers are open to advice and enthusiastic about looking after their skin. They won’t miss out on any part of their routine, whether it be cleansing and/or exfoliating or applying intensive treatments.

Cons: You can increase your risk of contact dermatitis, especially on sensitive skin, if you keep chopping and changing your products. Remember that ingredients need the stated amount of time to work, so you won’t get overnight results.

If you do one thing: Play around with the products that don’t really matter, but stick with the core ones that are necessary to treat your skin concerns. For example, if you are worried about wrinkles, always use a retinoid cream and just change around cleansers and moisturizers.

3. The connoisseur

You take skincare seriously, are well versed in the latest products and know what works for your skin. You don’t mind taking the time to use a multi-step program, or investing in new technology.

Pros: Using a lot of different products, adapted to different skin areas and skin needs will give outstanding results but in terms of tolerance, it is safer to use products from the same brand, as they are tested for compatibility.

Cons: Maintaining this level of commitment can be time-consuming and expensive. It’s easy to get swept up in product promises – it’s really important to realize that unfortunately creams can’t work miracles.

If you do one thing: Make your products even more beneficial by doing a specific facial massage. There is a real synergy between formulas and massage to boost efficiency of active ingredients and stimulating the skin. Don’t forget that diet, exercise and lifestyle have a huge impact on the way your skin looks and behaves.

4. The pragmatist

You’ve found a range of products you love and suit your skin. You stockpile when there’s a special offer on and see no reason to look for anything new.

Pros: You won’t have any issues about reacting to a product. Using your products more frequently than the trend-seeker will mean you’ll see the long-term effects of products used daily

Cons: You could acquire tachyphylaxis when you’ve used something for a long time, meaning your product may stop working or may not produce the beneficial effects it once had. The same happens with deodorant, shampoo and drugs – you have to increase the dosage to see a difference. If you’re sticking with a product you first discovered years ago, there may be some scientific advances that you’re missing out on.

If you do one thing: Analyze your skin at least once a year, or after a major life change such as a move to a new climate, pregnancy, menopause, a new stressful job or new diet. Objectively, we can see a change in skin complexion, blemishes, dark circles, lines or redness. Subjectively, we can feel tightening or stinging sensations, discomfort, dryness or heat. This is when you need to address your skin.

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