What does it mean to have AE(.) skin?

Cutaneous aging: ABSENT

Oxidation factors: EXPOSED

Sebum production: BALANCED (.)

Find here information on the 24 skin profiles defined by Typology.

The letter “A” indicates that no visible signs of aging are yet present on the skin. Three main manifestations typically mark the onset of skin aging: the wrinkles, skin laxity — often associated with volume loss — and decreased density. These changes generally begin in the thirties, when the skin starts to show the first signs of a slowdown in its biological processes.

Indeed, over time, cell renewal slows down, lipid production decreases, and collagen and elastin fibers become increasingly sparse. At the same time, hyaluronic acid synthesis weakens, and dermal fat cells decrease in number, reducing the face’s structural support. Although these changes are unavoidable, their rate of progression depends strongly on internal factors (genetic, hormonal) and external factors (sun exposure, smoking, oxidative stress, diet). By acting on these parameters, it is possible to delay the appearance of signs of aging.

The letter “E” denotes a skin heavily exposed to external aggressors, such as solar radiation, air pollution, tobacco, stress, or alcohol consumption. Added to this are often insufficient photoprotection habits that are not adapted to the phototype or the exposure pattern. These various factors generate free radicals, unstable molecules naturally produced by oxygen-consuming cells but which, in excess, become harmful to the skin.

When the production of free radicals exceeds the body’s natural defense capacities — notably those of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, or glutathione peroxidase — an oxidative stress sets in. This imbalance causes the progressive deterioration of skin structures, both in the epidermis and the dermis. Collagen and elastin fibers become rigid and fragment, hyaluronic acid degrades, membrane lipids oxidize, and even cellular DNA can be damaged. In the most severe cases, chronic sun exposure may also promote precancerous lesions.

The “.” mark indicates a balance in sebum production. This sebum, secreted by the sebaceous glands, is a lipid substance essential for the epidermis: it nourishes the skin, reduces water loss, and contributes to the formation of the hydrolipidic film, this thin protective barrier covering the skin’s surface. Soft and comfortable, AE(.) skin has a smooth texture and shows neither shine nor dry patches. It is naturally well-hydrated, protected, and the imperfections are rare. However, despite this good skin balance, this skin profile also requires care to maintain its health.

Even with balanced sebum production, if the skin is not adequately protected, especially from the sun, and continues to be exposed to extrinsic factors (pollution, stress, smoking...), the AE profile(.) is prone to developing premature signs of aging (wrinkles, pigmentation spots, skin laxity...).

Even when AE(.) skin is balanced, it remains vulnerable in the long term. A skincare regimen focused on antioxidant protection and hydration maintenance can extend its resilience against external factors.

In the morning, it is recommended to apply an antioxidant serum, formulated for instance with vitamin C, to protect the skin from free radicals generated by sun exposure and pollution. After that, you can use a lightweight moisturizer, which helps maintain the hydrolipidic film and prevent dehydration. Finally, a sun protection daily adapted to your phototype is essential even in urban settings or on cloudy days, because UVA rays, present year-round, penetrate deeply into the dermis and contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin.

In the evening, the skin should be makeup-removed and then gently cleansed with mild products to eliminate impurities and pollutant particles accumulated during the day. Applying an antioxidant serum at the end of the day helps limit the persistence of free radicals formed during daytime exposure. This treatment can be complemented by a more emollient moisturizer that promotes barrier recovery and supports the skin’s natural nocturnal regeneration processes.

"I’m not typically in the habit of maintaining a skincare routine, but it has proven to be truly outstanding. […] At first, with all the products you receive, it’s hard to remember the regimen, but you pick it up quickly and it’s easy to follow. After 10 days, I noticed a clear reduction in my dark circles and a more even skin tone." Raed M. – AE Typologist