We Are Not Defined by a Skin Type, But…
As we have already established, skin type is determined by your skin’s oil production, which comes from the sebaceous glands in the form of sebum. Sebum is a substance excreted to provide your skin with its natural barrier.
What is Sebum?
Sebum, a natural emollient that protects the skin, is a semi-liquid mixture containing mainly triglycerides (around 57%), waxes and their monoesters, squalene, and cholesterol and its esters. The sebaceous glands are located near hair follicles, which can be in the main layers of the skin (dermis or epidermis) or even subcutaneous. The sebum they secrete finds its way to the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the skin) through the pores.
Fun Fact: It is a common misconception that the pores of the skin are used to breathe. They don’t. They are openings to get the sebum produced by the glands to the outside (along with sweat and hair follicles). Pores are everywhere except for the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Higher amounts are concentrated on the face, scalp, back, and upper chest area.
Our Body Parts at Certain Periods of Our Lives Are Defined
Sebum production is often exacerbated during puberty when the glands typically enlarge. It can also happen due to hormone cycles, stress, lack of sleep, and other factors. When pores start having difficulties handling their delivery to the outside, they eventually clog, especially when skin is not properly cleansed and dirt and other external elements accumulate on the surface. As a result, the area where this overproduction of sebum occurs becomes oily.
It’s Not as Simple as One Skin Type
It is not as simple as classifying yourself by one skin type or another. Why? Because different areas can have different types at the same time. Depending on many internal or external factors, your skin can be one type or another. Remember, you have pores over most parts of your body.
Different Products for Different Parts of the Body
Instead of recommending one product for a skin type that allegedly defines you, I recommend several depending on where you apply them, even in different parts of your face, back, or chest. Understanding your skin’s unique needs in different areas helps you choose the right products for the best results.