Difference between skin type and skin condition.

The skin is among the essential organs that make up the body. It is composed of several internal skin layers and an external hydrolipidic film. This latter acts like a barrier that protects the internal tissues from external aggressions. Due to its composition and the rate of elements that characterize it, the hydrolipidic film is the basic element that allows determining the skin type.

Skin type is a skin characteristic that does not change; it is determined by our genetic heritage. There are 4 types of skin:

• Normal/Eudermic Skin: This refers to a balanced and comfortable skin type that is neither too oily nor too dry. The balance between sebum production and hydration does not appear to be compromised. It has a regular skin texture, an even complexion, a smooth and soft texture, and does not have any imperfections.

• Dry Skin : This refers to a type of skin that produces less sebum than normal skin, consequently having an impaired barrier function. Due to this sebum deficiency, the skin may appear tight, rough, and dull on a daily basis. In extreme cases, it can present redness, flaking, and frequent itching sensations.

• Oily Skin : Refers to skin that produces excess sebum, most often in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). The skin surface tends to shine, pores are visible and enlarged, and blemishes (comedones, blackheads, acne...) may appear.

• Combination Skin : This skin type is complex. Indeed, it is characterized by an oily part in the T-zone of the face that may show imperfections, and areas that tend to be normal or even dry on the cheeks.