(BlackDoctor.org) -- Knowing your skin type is the key to beautiful skin.We often wonder why some of us have flawless beautiful skin, whereas others have pimples, spots or acne breakouts. Well, there are a lot of factors that contribute to the look and texture of our skin. Some of them are heredity, environmental or diet. However it is very important to know that the health of the skin also depends on how well you take care of it. Skin can be divided into various types according to its texture. Knowing your skin type is the key factor in selecting customized skin care products that are right for you.

Sensitive skin

Thin or a fine-textured skin. It reacts quickly to both heat and cold; therefore, it sunburns and windburns easily. It is commonly dry, delicate and prone to allergic reactions. Temperature changes, cosmetics, some detergents and beauty products can all cause irritation, leaving the skin red and blotchy, with visible surface veins.

Normal skin

Fine even texture with a supple and smooth surface. Healthy looking texture with smooth finish.When properly cared for lines and wrinkles seldom form on this type of skin until late in life. It has a proper balance between oil and moisture contents and is neither oily nor dry. It looks clear and does not develop spots and blemishes. The pores of the skin are fine and barely visible.

Dry skin

Has a dry parched appearance and has a tendency to flake easily. Small pores and dull looking, is prone to wrinkles and lines. It is due to the inability to retain moisture as well as the insufficient production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. Dry skin often has problems in cold weather and ages faster than normal or oily skin. Constant protection is very important. It needs a moisturizer during the day and a good hydrating cream at night.

Oily skin

This type of skin is caused by the over secretion of sebum making the skin surface oily. The excess oil on the surface of the skin attracts dirt and dust from the environment. Oily skin is also prone to spots, pimples, and blackheads. Shiny appearance; larger pores than other skin types; more prone to blemishes and clogged pores. Wrinkles less readily than other skin types This type of skin needs to be cleansed thoroughly.

Combination skin

Is a combination of both dry and oily skin,  with certain areas of the face oily and the rest dry. Usually the forehead, nose and chin are oily and the cheeks and the areas around the eyes and mouth are dry. The oily central panel is referred to as T - Zone. When properly cared for lines & wrinkles seldom form until late in life.

Five key’s to optimal skin care

1. CLEANSE to remove makeup and impurities.
2. EXFOLIATE to remove dead surface cells that dull the skin.
3. FRESHEN to refine pores as well as tone & tighten the skin.
4. MOISTURIZE to help keep your skin supple and hydrated.
5. PROTECT your skin from the environment.

By Patricia Carol Brooks, BDO Contributing Writer