Skin Types

Skin conditions like acne are not classified as genetic and are usually indicators of an underlying concern. However, there are four main characteristics of the skin and each of these skin type characteristics have conditions that are more commonly associated with them.

• Oily - Characterized by excessive sebum production, large pores, and shiny appearance. Requires extensive exfoliation and cleansing compared to other types due to its proneness to clogged pores, acne, and blackheads.
• Dry - Tightness, tiny follicles, dehydration, flakiness, and irritation are all symptoms of lack of moisture and oil barrier, which protects it from premature aging.
• Combination - Produces both oily and arid symptoms, sometimes with an oily T-zone and dry cheeks that have a variable pore size, requiring dual skin treatments. Clogged pores, acne, flakiness, and sensitivities can all occur at once.
• Normal - The most balanced of skin types and contains an ideal oil/water balance with normal pore size. The normal type can fluctuate but usually doesn't develop serious dermal problems.

Sensitivity is determined by intolerance to a cosmetic product, which can present itself in a number of ways that cause irritation. Irritations are usually the first indicators of sensitivity after coming in contact with a chemical.

Though sensitivity is not considered a diagnosis, it can become an indicator that a particular ingredient or product is not ideal to use. Forms of irritation may include itchiness, swelling, stinging, dryness, scaling, peeling, bumps, hives, soreness, pain or burning. If any of these symptoms present themselves, a medical consultation is recommended for proper care.

Ethnic skin types typically contain more melanin, a natural substance found in the dermis, contributing to darker skin. Melanin also protects the epidermis from harmful UV rays. Though melanin provides ample sun protection, it can also produce thick, thin, oily and dry symptoms. Depending on the climate, some darker epidermis may be considered stronger or more fragile than others, so it is a good idea to book an appointment with someone who can help relieve common skin ailments. Dr. Clement and Nurse Practitioner Littlefield of The Skin Studios specializes in gentle skin treatments.

• African American - Dark skin found in people of African descent contains varying amounts of melanin, which contribute to variable pigmentation. While African American skin is prone to conditions such as hyperkeratosis, it usually ages slower as a result of ample melanin. However, uneven tone and texture can be a problem, which may be caused by using harsh chemicals, chemical peels, and some exfoliating skin treatments, resulting in scarring.
• Hispanic - People of Hispanic heritage typically have varying skin tones, which contains a considerable amount of oil, requiring extensive treatments for problematic conditions such as acne. Hispanic epidermis that is darker can also be prone to hyperpigmentation and scarring due to abrasive exfoliation and harsh chemicals.
• Asian - Asian skin is typically the most sensitive of all groups. However, it also contains a considerable amount of elasticity. As such, certain skin treatments like alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) can be very abrasive. Because of the fragility of Asian epidermis, one must take caution when treating conditions while preserving the natural pigmentation.
• Indian - Indian skin usually contains a considerable amount of melanin, as well. Indian skin can also be oily, contributing to acne. In addition to other conditions, such as scarring and post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation, this type can also fall victim to scarring if such conditions aren't treated properly.

Men's skin can fall victim to hormonal fluctuations just as much as women. The facial epidermis found in men is typically thicker and breaks out less often than in women. However, men frequently experience the most irritation due to shaving. Other common conditions treated in male aesthetic medicine include:

• Razor Burn - Redness, ingrown hairs, and rash caused by friction between a shaving blade and the face due to insufficient moisture.
• Acne - Infected sebaceous glands
• Rosacea - A condition in which large blood vessels emit a flushed appearance in the cheeks and nose.