Author: Ljubica Barbulović, MPharm

Beautiful and healthy skin is the dream of many women and men. When it comes to facial care, it is important to understand that there are several factors that can affect its appearance and health. A healthy diet, drinking enough water, sun protection, along with a proper and regular routine, are key factors that contribute to a radiant complexion.

In a sea of cosmetic products, dermocosmetics stand out as the safest choice, combining cosmetic care with dermatological testing. In this text, we will share tips on how to recognize your skin type and choose the right products.

How to recognize and care for your skin type?

1. Normal skin

Normal skin is evenly hydrated, without pronounced problems, enlarged pores, or sensitivity. It has enough moisture and natural oils that give it a healthy, radiant appearance. However, regular care is needed to slow down aging.

 Product recommendations:

2. Dry skin

Dry skin is characterized by a lack of moisture, so it can look tight, chapped, and rough to the touch. It is more prone to irritation and flaking, which can accelerate the appearance of fine wrinkles. Dry skin requires rich hydration and lipid barrier restoration.

 Product recommendations:

3. Oily skin

Oily skin secretes a larger amount of sebum, which leads to facial shine, enlarged pores, and frequent occurrences of acne and blackheads. It is crucial to avoid heavy oils that clog pores (comedogenic ingredients) and focus on thorough cleansing and light hydration.

 Product recommendations:

4. Combination skin

This is the most common type, a combination of an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and dry or normal cheeks. It requires balanced care that will mattify oily areas and hydrate dry ones.

 Product recommendations:

Dermatological favorites for every skin type

Avene Hydrance Riche

For dry skin: Avene Hydrance Riche

A rich hydrating cream that restores water reserves in the skin and provides immediate relief and softness to a dry face.

Noreva Exfoliac

For oily skin: Noreva Exfoliac Gel

A purifying wash gel that effectively removes excess sebum, tightens pores, and prevents new acne breakouts.

Bioderma Sebium H2O

For combination: Bioderma Sebium H2O

Cult micellar water that gently removes makeup and cleanses the face, while regulating the oiliness of the T-zone.

Bioderma Hydrabio

For radiance: Bioderma Hydrabio Gel

A light cream-gel that restores radiance and intensely hydrates normal skin, making it perfectly soft to the touch.

Golden rules and tips for healthy skin

Facial care is a process that requires dedication. Here are the key steps you should not skip:

  • Proper cleansing: Remove impurities, sweat, and dead cells every morning and evening. Avoid washing too often with aggressive soaps.
  • Deep hydration: Water is key. Drink enough fluids and use creams with hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
  • Sun protection: SPF 30 or higher is mandatory all year round to prevent wrinkles, spots, and burns.
  • Healthy habits: Limit alcohol intake which dries out the skin, and avoid smoking which slows down microcirculation and accelerates aging. Enrich your diet with vitamins (fruits and vegetables).
Pharmacist's Advice

A mistake many make is using inadequate preparations. If you have oily skin, you must not "dry" it with alcohol toners because the skin will fight back by secreting even more sebum. If your skin is sensitive, always choose medical dermocosmetics without perfumes and parabens. Be consistent - the results of a real routine are visible only after 3 to 4 weeks of regular use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the easiest way to determine my skin type?
Wash your face with a mild gel, pat dry, and wait 30 minutes without applying any cream. If the skin feels tight, it is dry. If it shines in the T-zone, it is combination. If the whole face shines, it is oily.

2. Does oily skin need to be hydrated?
Absolutely. Skipping moisturizer signals the glands to secrete even more oil. Use light water-based gel creams.

3. What are dermocosmetics and why are they better?
Dermocosmetics are preparations that are clinically and dermatologically tested, adapted to specific skin conditions (acne, rosacea, atopy), and are sold predominantly in pharmacies.

4. Do I need SPF during winter?
Yes. UVA rays that cause aging pass through clouds and windows, so a day cream with a sun protection factor is necessary all year round.

5. How often should I exfoliate my face?
If you have normal or combination skin, 1 to 2 times a week is enough. Sensitive and dry skin should avoid rough mechanical exfoliation.