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Typologie de peau DE(.).

DE profile, along with further explanations of this skin typology.

Traditionally, we distinguish four major skin categories: dry skin, combination skin, oily skin, and normal skin, defined by the activity of the sebaceous glands responsible for sebum production. However, skin is more complex than commonly believed. At Typology, using a more advanced scientific methodology, we have identified not four but 24 different skin typologies, and the DE(.) profile is one of them. How do we define this skin type? Find more information about the DE(.) skin typology in this article.

Published on December 19, 2022, updated on November 13, 2025, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 6 min of reading

Additional details on the significance of the initials DE(.).

Cutaneous aging : BEGINNER ("Débutant" in French)

Oxidation factors : EXPOSED

Sebum production: BALANCED.

La matrice de peau DE(.).

The DE(.) skin matrix.

Source: Typology.

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The letter "D" denotes the "Beginner" stage of skin aging.

The letter D indicates the onset of the first visible signs of aging, often associated with the natural movements of the face. These marks appear mainly when the skin is engaged by facial expressions: smiling, frowning, or repeated contractions of the muscles around the eyes and mouth. These are the dynamic wrinkles, thin and superficial lines that appear first, especially at the outer corners of the eyes, but also on the forehead or around the lips.

These signs can be detected as early as the late twenties and reflect subtle but early changes in the dermis and epidermis. The production of collagen and elastin begins to decline, resulting in a slight loss of mechanical strength, and cellular turnover slows, gradually affecting the skin’s radiance and texture. This is accompanied by a progressive decrease in sebum production by the sebaceous glands, which can leave the skin mildly dehydrated, thereby accentuating the visibility of fine lines during facial expressions, even before static or deeper wrinkles appear.

The onset of cutaneous aging manifests as a progressive decline in skin suppleness, tonicity, and its ability to retract after each movement.

The letter "E" denotes exposure to oxidative factors.

The "E" indicates that the skin is regularly exposed to external aggressors that promote the formation of free radicals. These unstable molecules are produced by solar radiation, pollution, tobacco, stress, and alcohol, and can damage epidermal and dermal cells even when the signs of aging remain very subtle.

In DE(.), skin, these oxidative factors can increase the visibility of dynamic fine lines by weakening the collagen and elastin fibers already challenged by facial movements. Oxidation also targets lipids and cellular DNA, contributing to progressive dehydration, a loss of radiance, and a rougher texture. Even though these changes are still subtle, they set the stage for more visible aging if no preventive measures are implemented.

For DE(.) skin types, the focus should therefore be on preventing oxidative factors.

The "." indicator for balanced sebum secretion.

The "." indicates that the skin produces sebum in balanced amounts, neither too much nor too little. This natural lipid film plays a crucial role in protecting the skin against dehydration and external stressors while maintaining its suppleness and comfort. For DE(.), still young but already exposed to the first signs of aging, balanced sebum production helps limit wrinkle formation and preserve skin elasticity during facial movements.

This skin type generally exhibits an even skin texture, with few or no imperfections, pores that are barely visible and an even complexion.

What measures should be taken to care for DE skin?

A simple yet targeted skincare routine allows for the specialized care of DE(.) skin. In the morning, begin by applying an antioxidant serum, which helps neutralize the free radicals generated by sun exposure, pollution, or stress. This preventive measure protects skin cells and slows the onset of wrinkles. Next, a lightweight moisturizer helps maintain the hydrolipidic film and provides comfort to the skin. Finally, daily sun protection remains essential, even on cloudy days, to prevent UV-related damage. For the eye contour, a dedicated cream can help hydrate this thin, fragile area and reduce the appearance of early crow's feet.

In the evening, after removing makeup and gently cleansing to eliminate impurities that have built up throughout the day, we recommend applying a retinoid serum. This class of actives is among the most well-documented for smoothing wrinkles. If your skin is sensitive or not yet acclimated to retinoids, it is recommended to start with low concentrations and space out applications to minimize irritation. Finish with a nourishing cream to strengthen hydration and support the skin barrier, and don’t forget your eye contour treatment.

"I absolutely love these formulations and have observed remarkable improvements in my skin! I had never maintained a skincare regimen before, and these products made it straightforward to begin. Their volumes are slightly smaller than I anticipated, but each one retains its efficacy and lasts impressively well!" Angela T. – Typologist DE(.)

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