Exactly what skincare to use for 5 different skin types.

Do you know what skin type you have? I do, I’m combination. 

But for years I wasn't sure if it was dry (I was rewatching for super thick creams that didn't work for me), or oily (blotting papers are my best friend).

Since working out I’m actually a combo girl, my whole approach to my complexion changed as I used skincare that worked for my skin type. And guess what? My skin is now balanced, soft and happy.

Luckily, Myer has a massive range of skincare, from all of my most loved, trusted brands. They literally have thousands of options, whether you're dry, oily, combo, ‘normal’, or sensitive. 

You can head in-store to have a touch/play/feel, and get guidance (and samples!) from their helpful staff, or you can shop online in your trackies.

Below I've given some tips and tricks for addressing each skin type (because they can be confusing!), and made some product suggestions that might work for you. 

Dry skin

It sounds counterintuitive, but it’s possible to have dry skin that presents as oily. That’s because the skin can create excess sebum when it’s dehydrated –- sort of like it’s trying to moisturise itself! 

Dehydration lines are small, shallow surface lines, which are technically different to wrinkles. These can exist while you also feel your skin is oily – it’s confusing! Dry or dehydrated skin can sometimes be sensitive too, so there’s... a lot going on.

A serum should be dry skin’s best friend. Rich with powerful ingredients, a good serum will be like a big glass of water to dry skin. A luxe face oil as a final step, over your moisturiser, can be a great way to seal and lock in hydration. These three steps will ensure your dry skin is nourished and moisturised. It’s all about the layers!

TRY THESE:

Clarins Double Serum, $116

Elizabeth Arden Prevage Day Cream, $190

KORA Organics Noni Glow Face Oil, $36

Image: Myer/Mamamia.

Oily skin

A bit like dry skin, oily skin can confuse many people as they assume any moisture or hydration on top will just make things worse. In fact, the opposite is true. Oftentimes oily skin, when left to its own devices, will continue to produce oil, so it’s all about getting the right hydration. 

A gel or gel-cream moisturiser is ideal because it’s lightweight so doesn't feel heavy or greasy, but it does the job of adding lightweight hydration. 

Products that contain the ingredient niacinamide are fantastic because they help regulate oil production, while zinc is also great for oily or breakout-prone complexions. Lastly, oily people often shy away from sunscreen for fear of a greasy result, but that’s a mistake. Every single face and skin type needs sun protection, every single day. A lightweight fluid is the answer. 

TRY THESE:

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% Zinc 1% Treatment, $17

Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator Moisturiser, $70

Alpha-H Clear Skin Face & Body Wash with 2% Salicylic Acid, $64.95

Image: Myer/Mamamia.

Combination skin

Combination skin is a balancing act. I can personally relate, because I have combination skin, so I have the lucky task of treating oil and dryness at the same time.

It’s about finding lightweight products that won't make the ‘shiny’ parts of your complexion into a full-blown oil slick, while still giving enough to the dry parts at the same time. It’s about layers and balance. 

A lightweight multi-use serum is a great option because they are generally formulated to work well with all skin types – ace for those of us who sort of have two. 

A hydrating toner is actually a fantastic way to add moisture in a really lightweight texture that’s not going to be too heavy for the oily bits.

TRY THESE:

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex Serum, $121 

Natio Ageless Replenishing Hydrating Toner, $16.95

Aceology Skin Detox Acessential Pack, $59

Image: Mye/Mamamia.

Sensitive skin

While those with sensitive skin might shy away from thorough cleansing for fear of upsetting their delicate complexion, cells still turn over and often need a hand being whisked away to reveal smoother, softener skin.

Sometimes it’s about frequency when it comes to sensitive skin – it may be that once a week for actual exfoliation is enough for you. Also, the formulas you use every day are so, so important.

Using products that are formulated to be gentle and mild is a no brainer, especially when it comes to something you do daily, like cleansing. 

Then, an antioxidant rich serum made for sensitive skin will help protect, repair and strengthen the barrier, exactly what sensitive skin needs. Lastly, something designed to create a barrier and protect – especially ongoing into the cooler months which can be quite harsh on sensitive skin. 

TRY THESE:

Clinique Clarifying Lotion 1.0 Lotion, $37

SkinCeuticals Serum 10 AOX, $142 

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant, $32

Image: Myer/Mamamia.

Normal skin

'Normal’ skin is the holy grail, and while I'm not too sure how many people fall perfectly into this category, those blessed with ‘perfect skin' still need to switch up their products.

Seasons play a huge part in how our skin behaves. Switching out textures depending on the temperature and humidity is always wise, as is having a little skincare wardrobe for the transeasonal months.

An all-rounder serum is great for you to always have on hand because they tend to layer well no matter the mercury. 

Then, a barrier-strengthening cream will help keep your skin in the ‘normal’ zone and in tiptop shape, regardless of what season it is.

TRY THESE:

Lancôme Advanced Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate Serum, $128 

Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme Youth Power Creme Moisturiser, $97

Clarins Hydrating Toning Lotion, $49

Image: Myer/Mamamia.

Learn how to care for your skin type with the skincare range from Myer.

Feature Image: Myer/Mamamia/Instagram/@leighacampbell