FAQ

• The blotting paper test: Take a blotting paper and press it gently on different areas of your face, including your forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks. If the blotting paper picks up oil from your skin, you have oily skin. If it doesn’t pick up any oil, you have dry skin. If it picks up oil only from your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), you have combination skin.
• The washcloth test: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry. Then, wait an hour and press a clean washcloth against your face. If the washcloth sticks to your skin or leaves a film, you have dry skin. If the washcloth doesn’t stick and doesn’t leave a film, you have oily skin. If the washcloth sticks in some areas but not others, you have combination skin.
• The visual test: Look at your skin in a well-lit mirror. If your skin looks smooth and has a healthy glow, you have normal skin. If your skin is flaky, rough, or looks dull, you have dry skin. If your skin is shiny, especially in your T-zone, you have oily skin. If your skin is oily in your T-zone but dry in other areas, you have combination skin.

Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, can be caused by a variety of factors, including sun exposure, acne, and certain medications. If you are concerned about dark spots on your skin, there are several steps you can take to help reduce their appearance:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher: Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation and make it harder to treat. Protecting your skin from the sun can help prevent new dark spots from forming.
• Use skincare products that contain skin-lightening ingredients: Ingredients such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, and alpha-hydroxy acids can help to lighten dark spots and even out skin tone.
• Use physical or chemical exfoliants: Exfoliating your skin can help to remove dead skin cells that can contribute to the appearance of dark spots. Look for exfoliants that contain glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acids.

If you have acne-prone skin, it is important to use skin care products that are specifically formulated to target and treat acne. Here are some types of products that may be helpful for acne-prone skin:

• Cleansers: Choose a cleanser that is gentle and non-irritating, and look for one that is formulated to help control oil production and reduce the risk of acne.
• Exfoliants: Look for an exfoliant that contains salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acid, as these ingredients can help to unclog pores and reduce the risk of acne. Avoid physical exfoliants with large grains, as these can be too harsh for acne-prone skin.
• Acne treatments: Look for products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, as these ingredients can help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Moisturizers: Choose a moisturizer that is lightweight and oil-free, and look for one that is formulated to help control oil production and reduce the risk of acne.

The length of time it takes to see results from skin care products can vary depending on a number of factors, including the specific product and its ingredients, the individual’s skin type and concerns, and the frequency and consistency of use. In general, you may begin to see some initial results from using a skin care product within a few days to a week, although more significant improvements in the appearance and health of the skin may take longer to become apparent. For example, you may notice that your skin looks and feels smoother and more hydrated after just a few uses of a moisturizer, but it may take several weeks or even months to see significant improvements in the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, or uneven skin tone.

The frequency of exfoliation depends on your skin type and the type of exfoliant you are using. Here are some general guidelines for exfoliating:

• For those with normal or combination skin: You can exfoliate 2-3 times per week.
• For those with sensitive skin: You should exfoliate no more than once a week, and it is recommended to use a gentle exfoliant such as a chemical exfoliant or a physical exfoliant with very fine grains.
• For those with oily or acne-prone skin: You can exfoliate 2-3 times per week, but be sure to choose an exfoliant that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin.