The way your skin behaves and reacts determines the type of skin you have. Basic skin types include oily, dry, combination, normal and sensitive. The skin on your face is the best guide to classifying your skin type.

An easy way to find out what type of skin you have is to cleanse your face, wait for an hour and then take a tissue and wipe your forehead, nose, cheeks and chin. If the tissue picks up oily residue from all these areas, you have oily skin; if it picks up oil only from the forehead, nose and chin (T-zone), you have combination skin; if it picks up dry, flaky skin, you have dry skin; and if you do not find oil or flakes, you have normal skin. No matter what type of skin you have, cleansing and moisturizing twice a day is an important part of having healthy, attractive skin. Choose products that are designed for your particular skin type for maximum results.

Beyond the basic skin types, you may also have sensitive skin. Although sensitive skin is often dry, any type of skin can be sensitive. Sensitive skin is usually thin, delicate, reacts quickly to hot and cold temperatures, is easily subject to sun and wind burns and is prone to allergic reactions. Cleansers, detergents, cosmetics, alcohol-based external products and temperature changes can make sensitive skin red, dry, itchy, blotchy and even reveal surface veins. The most favorable type of products to use on your skin are fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) with a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more. Before using any product, it is a good idea to test it on the inside of your wrist to see if your skin has any reaction to it. Always choose mild cleansers and use a soft towel on sensitive skin.

Knowing the different skin types, and which one you have, is the first step toward choosing a skin routine that makes you look and feel your very best.