Characteristics of the VE(+) skin profile.

Cutaneous aging: VISIBLE

Oxidation factors: EXPOSED

Sebum production: ELEVATED (+)

In the VE(+) profile, the letter “V” refers to signs of aging that are already present and easily noticeable on the skin’s surface. These marks result from a series of gradual changes affecting the epidermis, dermis, and supporting structures. Fine lines become visible at rest, expression wrinkles deepen around the eyes, forehead, or lips, and skin tone uniformity decreases. Physiologically, the epidermis slows its cell renewal rate, disrupting corneocyte organization and weakening the barrier function. This loss of cohesion leads to skin that is more reactive and less able to retain the water, a factor that makes fine lines even more pronounced. Meanwhile, melanocytes lose density and functional regularity: some areas produce more pigment, others less, leading to the appearance of brown spots and an uneven complexion.

In the dermis, fibroblast activity, which produces the collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, slows. The collagen network then loses density and alignment, elastin fibers become shorter and less organized, and hyaluronic acid becomes scarce, which diminishes skin suppleness. Finally, cutaneous microcirculation declines with age, reducing nutrient and oxygen delivery to the various layers of the skin. This phenomenon contributes to the duller complexion often observed in this profile, as well as to a less efficient tissue repair.

The visible signs of aging in VE(+) skin are not confined to the surface: they stem from a set of closely linked biological mechanisms that gradually reshape the skin’s structure.

In the VE(+) profile, the letter “E” indicates that the skin is regularly subjected to sources of oxidative stress. This term covers all forms of damage capable of generating an excess of free radicals: UV radiation, urban pollution, tobacco, chronic stress, lack of sleep… These factors are not unique to this profile, but in the case of VE(+) skin, their impact is often more pronounced because they add to an underlying condition already prone to visible aging.

Physiologically, oxidative stress corresponds to an imbalance between the amount of free radicals produced and the skin’s ability to neutralize them through its internal antioxidant systems (vitamin E, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase…).

In excess, free radicals attack membrane lipids, structural proteins (collagen, elastin...) and even cellular DNA, contributing to the appearance of aging signs. Furthermore, when subjected to oxidative stress, keratinocytes, the predominant cells of the epidermis, produce increased inflammatory signals that sustain a state of chronic tissue stress. Oxidative stress also alters melanin distribution. Under UV exposure and free radical attack, melanin synthesis becomes irregular, promoting the appearance of solar lentigines and an uneven complexion, which overlap pigmentary disorders due to intrinsic aging.

Thus, the letter “E” indicates cumulative exposure to oxidative factors that accelerates the overall skin aging process.

The “+” symbol indicates that the skin has a significant sebaceous activity. Sebum, naturally produced by the sebaceous glands located in the dermis, forms with sweat the hydrolipidic film, this thin protective layer that limits water evaporation and forms the first barrier against external aggressions. In VE(+) skin types, this lipid protection is present in sufficient, even excessive, amounts, giving the skin a shinier appearance, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). This sebaceous gland hyperactivity is driven by various mechanisms, but is mainly hormonally controlled. Indeed, skin that produces a lot of sebum often has high circulating androgen levels, notably dihydrotestosterone, and an increased sensitivity to these hormones.

VE(+) skin is not lacking in natural protection. However, this abundance of sebum does not equate to balance. When produced in excess, sebum can accumulate in pores, mix with dead skin cells, and promote a comedogenic environment. This results in uneven skin texture, enlarged pores, and an increased risk of imperfections, even in adulthood. Moreover, this situation can be exacerbated by aging: with age, the pores tend to dilate due to dermal laxity, making the skin’s surface appear less smooth.

The “+” symbol indicates skin that is naturally rich in lipids but prone to imbalances: enlarged pores, excess shine, occasional blemishes, and texture irregularities.

VE(+)-skin requires a regimen that maintains its lipid balance while addressing its two other major vulnerabilities: visible signs of aging and significant exposure to oxidative stress.

In the morning, the skincare routine should provide the skin with freshness and antioxidant protection. A gentle cleansing first removes excess sebum accumulated overnight. Next, antioxidant actives are essential for neutralizing free radicals—particularly prevalent in "E" profiles. The vitamin C, for example, enhances skin tone uniformity and supports collagen synthesis, while the vitamin E limits sebum oxidation, a phenomenon that contributes to congestion and pore dilation. You can then apply a lightweight moisturizer formulated for oily skin, to deliver hydration without weighing the skin down. Finally, the sunscreen is essential: it slows wrinkle formation, reduces oxidative stress, and prevents the darkening of spots linked to UV exposure.

In the evening, it all starts with a cleansing, often in two steps, to effectively remove sunscreen filters, makeup, sebum, and pollution particles. You can then apply a serum containing, for example, retinoids, which are highly beneficial for VE(+) skin types as they accelerate epidermal turnover, stimulate collagen synthesis, and help refine skin texture, making pores less visible. Once or twice a week, don’t forget to exfoliate your skin, to prevent comedone formation and support cellular renewal. Finally, as the last step in your evening routine, apply a lightweight moisturizing emulsion.