Understanding your skin type
Most people fit into 5 skin type categories: normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive. Many try, but you can not change your skin type. For instance, I have a lot of clients that when they first came in to see me, had dry, flaky skin. Upon further inspection, I noticed their healthy, oily skin underneath. These clients are unhappy with their skin type and are trying to change it by drying their skin out. The most popular skin I find however, are people with "sensitized" skin. Sensitized is different from sensitive because instead of being born with sensitive skin, they cause their skin to become sensitive, irritating it with harsh, chemical filled cleansers and exfoliants. This is why it is so important to use the right skin care products for you, and don't try to fight your skin type!
If your skin is...
Dry Dry skin can appear dull and flaky. After washing and before moisturizing, it will feel tight. It's very important for this type of skin to stay hydrated, inside and out. Drink plenty of water, eat hydrating fruits and vegetables, use creme cleansers, use exfoliation methods and rich, hydrating serums and moisturizers.
Oily Do you consider yourself having large pores? Do they get clogged frequently? Do you find yourself reaching for the blotting papers on a regular basis? You most likely have oily skin. The good thing about having oily skin is that it slows down two of the biggest physical characteristics associated with aging: fine lines and wrinkles. Keep your oil under control with gel cleansers, clay masks, and either a hydrating serum or gel as moisturizer.
Sensitive Tiny pores, thin skin, redness, and broken capillaries are all signs of sensitive skin. For these people it is most important to stay away from products with fragrance, parabens and sulfates (though I recommend all skin types to avoid these types of ingredients). Use creme or milk cleansers instead of foaming or gels, very gentle, natural exfoliants and masks, and healing moisturizers with ingredients like lavender, chamomile, Calendula, or Arnica. Be sure to do a patch test with any new product before using in case of allergies. Rosacea, Psoriasis, and Eczema prone skins would be in this category.
Combination People with combination skin have an oily T-zone and dryness on the cheeks. Toner is most important for this skin type to balance the PH.
I hope this helps but it's almost best to go to a professional and have your skin assessed in person to know what's best for you. No matter what your skin type is, love the skin you're in!