How to Identify Your Skin Type (According to a Dermatologist)

Not sure if your skin is oily, dry, or somewhere in between?

Choosing the wrong skincare can make breakouts worse, dryness worse, or just leave your skin looking tired.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to identify your skin type, step by step. 

You’ll learn how to spot signs at home, understand what each type needs, and even know when it’s time to see a dermatologist for professional advice. 

With these insights, you’ll be better equipped to choose products that support your skin’s health.

Please note:

Most people don’t neatly fit into just one skin-type box. 

Skin behaviour can vary by season, environment, age, and product use, among other factors.[1]

For instance, your skin might feel dry in winter and more oily in summer, or sensitive after introducing multiple active ingredients. In Central Alberta’s climate with its shifts in temperature and humidity, these fluctuations are especially common. That’s why it pays to view skin type as a guide—not a rigid label—and to adjust your routine as your skin changes over time.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Identify Your Skin Type at Home

Cleanse Your Face and Wait

Start with a clean face. Gently wash with a mild cleanser and pat dry. Wait for 30 minutes before assessing your skin.

The Blotting Sheet Test

Press a clean tissue or blotting paper onto different areas of your face: forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin.

You can buy blotting paper at your local store.

• Grease on the paper = oily areas
• Little to no oil = normal or dry areas

Observe Texture, Shine, and Pores

• Smooth, even skin = normal
• Shiny or enlarged pores = oily
• Flaky or tight skin = dry
• Combination = oily T-zone, dry/normal elsewhere

Track Reactions Over Several Days

Monitor how your skin reacts to environmental changes, skincare products, and seasonal shifts. Central Alberta winters can be drying, while summer sun may increase oiliness.

If you’re still unsure about your skin type, a dermatologist can assess your skin and recommend a routine tailored to your specific needs.

Skincare Tips Based on Skin Type

Choosing Moisturizers, Cleansers, and Sunscreens

Picking the right products starts with knowing your skin type. 

Oily skin benefits from gel-based cleansers and lightweight moisturizers, while dry skin does better with creamy or oil-based cleansers and hydrating serums. 

No matter your type, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential every day to protect against UV damage, especially in Central Alberta, where sun exposure can be intense.

Avoiding Harmful Ingredients

Certain ingredients can worsen skin issues depending on your type:

• Alcohol-heavy products can strip natural oils and worsen dryness.
• Comedogenic oils may trigger breakouts in oily or acne-prone skin.
• Fragrances and harsh acids can irritate sensitive skin, so look for gentle, non-irritating formulas.

Seasonal Considerations

Your skin’s needs change with the seasons:

Winter: Opt for richer creams and serums to combat dryness and protect the skin barrier.Summer: Choose lighter, oil-free hydration and continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent sun damage and excess oil buildup.

FAQs About Skin Types

Conclusion & Next Steps

Identifying your skin type is the foundation of effective skincare. 

By observing your skin, performing at-home tests, and consulting a dermatologist in Red Deer when needed, you can build a personalized skincare routine that protects, nourishes, and enhances your skin’s natural health.

Take the first step today — understand your skin, choose the right products, and enjoy healthy, glowing skin year-round.

References

• [1] CeraVe. (2025, August 11). How To Identify Your Skin Type, According To a Dermatologist. CeraVe. https://www.cerave.com/skin-smarts/skincare-tips-advice/what-skin-type-do-i-have