Guide to maintaining healthy skin: skin types and products needed in your daily care routine
Posted by Ivatherm
To have wonderful skin, genetic factors play an important role, but they are not the only ones that matter. Daily actions have a strong impact on skin health.
From the cosmetic products used in the skincare routine to the diet you follow, from exposure to sun rays to the action of environmental factors, there are numerous elements that influence the skin's ability to maintain its elasticity and youthful appearance for as long as possible.
Using cosmetic products adapted to the skin's needs helps the skin fight against harmful factors, whether it's too high or too low temperatures, ultraviolet rays, or pollution.
However, having good skincare products does not guarantee its health. For the products used to be as effective as possible, they must be applied in the correct order. The skincare routine will depend on the skin type, the ingredients and formulas of the products, and the time of day.
Table of Contents
Skin Types
The needs of the skin depend on its type. For optimal care, a good understanding of the skin's characteristics is necessary.
There are four skin types, and the main distinguishing aspects are related to:
hydration level, which influences elasticity;
sebum secretion, which affects smoothness;
degree of sensitivity.
Normal Skin
Unlike other skin types that are the result of a genetic, hormonal, or environmental imbalance, normal skin does not have a specific definition, but it can be said to be healthy and sufficiently hydrated skin. It is the least problematic, being rarely or not at all influenced by external factors.
Normal skin is, in fact, well-balanced skin; it is neither too dry, nor too oily, nor too sensitive, and therefore has very few imperfections. Characterized by barely visible pores, an even tone, and a smooth texture, normal skin is what many consider to be the ideal skin type.
Normal skin does not require special care, but it should not be ignored. The skincare routine must be followed daily.
Dry Skin
Dry skin is characterized by a lack of elasticity. Because it is not sufficiently hydrated, the skin is flaky, stiff, rough, and sometimes irritated. The skin appears dull due to the layer of dead cells, which, most of the time, covers it.
Genes are the main cause of dry skin, but there are many other factors that determine this skin type, including the aging process or hormonal changes, extreme weather (strong wind, cold, heatwave), ultraviolet radiation, hot showers, and excessive exfoliation with products such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
Because harsh and astringent products can exacerbate the symptoms of dry skin, gentle cosmetics and creams with a moisturizing texture are recommended.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is usually the result of excess sebum production. This is attributed more to biological factors than external ones. Hormonal changes can lead to an increase in sebum production.
The most common manifestation of oily skin is acne, which occurs predominantly during adolescence. People with oily skin tend to have enlarged pores, shiny skin, and pigment spots.
Skincare for oily skin focuses on reducing skin shine, caused by excess sebum, and controlling acne.
Combination Skin
Combination skin has characteristics specific to oily, dry, and normal skin. The T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) is usually oilier because there are more sebaceous glands, while the cheek area is either normal or dry.
People with combination skin may have oily and shiny skin in some parts of the face, and rough and dull in others. The presence of blackheads is frequent, and pores appear larger than normal when the skin is too shiny.
For combination skin care, specialists recommend using separate products to meet the two specific needs.
Each of these four skin types can have certain sensitivities.
Sensitive skin is most prone to inflammation. Redness and itching are characteristic for people with sensitive skin, regardless of their skin type. Moreover, people with sensitive skin often experience allergic reactions.
To prevent and treat sensitive skin, it is recommended to avoid exfoliating products and use lotions and moisturizing creams after each wash.
Morning Skin Care Routine
The morning skincare routine focuses on prevention and protection. The skin will be exposed to environmental factors, so the necessary steps include using products that hydrate and provide sun protection.
As a result, the morning skincare routine consists of three important steps:
cleansing;
moisturizing;
sun protection.
Skin cleansing is necessary in the morning, before applying any cosmetic product. At this stage, cleansing gels, cleansing lotions, or cleansing foams, adapted to the skin's needs, are recommended to remove accumulated dirt overnight. In most cases, products used for skin cleansing in the morning can also be used in the evening routine.
Ivatherm recommended products for skin cleansing:
Aquafil Hydra Cleansing Foam gently cleanses all skin types. It is a lotion that transforms into a light foam, removing impurities from the face, eyes, and lips, while protecting the skin's microbiome and hydrating it.
Ivadermaseb Calming Cleansing Gel is ideal for sensitive skin with redness and flaking. It cleanses without drying the skin, regulates flaking, soothes irritation, and decongests seborrheic areas.
Ivapur Purifying Cleansing Gel is recommended for sensitive combination or oily skin. It cleanses the face without drying and regulates sebum secretion.
Skin hydration involves using serums or creams to protect the skin. Typically, serums have a high concentration of certain ingredients. A serum based on antioxidants will protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C and vitamin E are antioxidants used to improve skin texture and firmness.
Ivatherm serums recommended for hydration:
Aquafil Hydra Hydrating Serum is recommended for all types of sensitive and dehydrated skin. With a very fluid, non-sticky texture that penetrates quickly into the skin, providing immediate and long-lasting hydration. The formula is twice as concentrated in next-generation moisturizing ingredients (Aquaphyline®) and is enriched with peptides and hyaluronic acid.
UNA Anti-aging serum with plant stem cells is ideal for all types of mature skin. It has an intense rejuvenating and regenerating effect, visibly reducing the depth and number of wrinkles.
Glykolift Lifting Serum is recommended for all types of mature skin. It significantly reduces wrinkles – by 46% after just 1 month.
Serums or oils have a light consistency and penetrate the skin more easily. Depending on the skin's needs, these may be sufficient for skincare or may be followed by face creams.
One of the rules in skincare is that cosmetic products are applied according to their nature and consistency. The lighter the product, the earlier it should be applied. Serums are easily absorbed, therefore they should always be applied before moisturizing cream. These products are especially useful if the skin shows signs of dryness, flaking, or dehydration.
In this hydration step, the eye area should not be overlooked. The skin in this area is thinner and more sensitive, prone to premature aging, which means the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, or pigment spots. A good eye cream can smooth and strengthen the area, giving it radiance.
Aquafil Hydra Complex Gel cream eye contour is recommended for all types of sensitive skin. It provides global care for the delicate eye area, thanks to the powerful combination of active ingredients with a triple effect: hydrating, anti-dark circles, anti-puffiness.
Protection against ultraviolet rays is the final step in the morning skincare routine. Not only can it reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, but it can also diminish signs of aging by blocking harmful ultraviolet light. Specialists recommend that the products used have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to provide protection against UVB rays, as well as the mention "broad-spectrum protection," which means it provides protection against UVA rays.
Products with sun protection factor should be applied to the skin at least 30 minutes before leaving the house, both in the warm and cold seasons.
The evening routine focuses on repairing damage caused during the day, with the help of products that have a denser consistency. This is also when ingredients that can sensitize the skin to sunlight, such as exfoliants, can be used.
If, in the morning routine, the use of products with sun protection factor completes the correct care ritual, in the evening routine, the cleansing step also includes makeup removal.
Thus, the three steps to follow in the evening skincare routine are:
makeup removal;
cleansing;
moisturizing.
Makeup removal is the first step and must be done regardless of whether makeup products have been used or not. Using sunscreen in the morning requires the skin to be thoroughly cleansed at the end of the day to completely remove accumulated impurities. At this stage, it is recommended to use cleansing milk or micellar water to remove makeup or SPF.
Ivatherm products for makeup removal:
Ivapur Micellar Thermal Water is recommended for sensitive combination or oily skin. It gently cleanses and removes makeup, eliminating impurities and excess sebum, without drying the skin.
After using the makeup remover, skin cleansing follows. At this stage, the same products as in the morning routine - foams, lotions, or cleansing gels - can be used, depending on the skin's needs.
On some evenings, before moisturizing, acids can also be used to support cell regeneration. Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid contribute to keeping the skin even and luminous.
Before the final step, we recommend using hydrating, depigmenting, or anti-aging serums.
Hydration is the last step in the end-of-day skincare routine. Using masks or moisturizing creams helps repair the skin and prepare it for a new day. Hydrating serums and creams help the skin retain moisture and, implicitly, elasticity. Applied at the end of the day, they act throughout the night so that, in the morning, the skin is soft and radiant.
Ivapur Hidra is recommended for sensitive, oily skin, dehydrated after treatments. It intensely and lastingly hydrates fragile skin.
A properly performed care routine supports skin health and helps keep the skin radiant and young for as long as possible. Knowing your skin type and specific needs helps establish a correct skin care process.
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.
Guide to maintaining healthy skin: skin types and products needed in your daily care routine
To have wonderful skin, genetic factors play an important role, but they are not the only ones that matter. Daily actions have a strong impact on skin health.
From the cosmetic products used in the skincare routine to the diet you follow, from exposure to sun rays to the action of environmental factors, there are numerous elements that influence the skin's ability to maintain its elasticity and youthful appearance for as long as possible.
Using cosmetic products adapted to the skin's needs helps the skin fight against harmful factors, whether it's too high or too low temperatures, ultraviolet rays, or pollution.
However, having good skincare products does not guarantee its health. For the products used to be as effective as possible, they must be applied in the correct order. The skincare routine will depend on the skin type, the ingredients and formulas of the products, and the time of day.
Table of Contents
Skin Types
The needs of the skin depend on its type. For optimal care, a good understanding of the skin's characteristics is necessary.
There are four skin types, and the main distinguishing aspects are related to:
Normal Skin
Unlike other skin types that are the result of a genetic, hormonal, or environmental imbalance, normal skin does not have a specific definition, but it can be said to be healthy and sufficiently hydrated skin. It is the least problematic, being rarely or not at all influenced by external factors.
Normal skin is, in fact, well-balanced skin; it is neither too dry, nor too oily, nor too sensitive, and therefore has very few imperfections. Characterized by barely visible pores, an even tone, and a smooth texture, normal skin is what many consider to be the ideal skin type.
Normal skin does not require special care, but it should not be ignored. The skincare routine must be followed daily.
Dry Skin
Dry skin is characterized by a lack of elasticity. Because it is not sufficiently hydrated, the skin is flaky, stiff, rough, and sometimes irritated. The skin appears dull due to the layer of dead cells, which, most of the time, covers it.
Genes are the main cause of dry skin, but there are many other factors that determine this skin type, including the aging process or hormonal changes, extreme weather (strong wind, cold, heatwave), ultraviolet radiation, hot showers, and excessive exfoliation with products such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
Because harsh and astringent products can exacerbate the symptoms of dry skin, gentle cosmetics and creams with a moisturizing texture are recommended.
Oily Skin
Oily skin is usually the result of excess sebum production. This is attributed more to biological factors than external ones. Hormonal changes can lead to an increase in sebum production.
The most common manifestation of oily skin is acne, which occurs predominantly during adolescence. People with oily skin tend to have enlarged pores, shiny skin, and pigment spots.
Skincare for oily skin focuses on reducing skin shine, caused by excess sebum, and controlling acne.
Combination Skin
Combination skin has characteristics specific to oily, dry, and normal skin. The T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) is usually oilier because there are more sebaceous glands, while the cheek area is either normal or dry.
People with combination skin may have oily and shiny skin in some parts of the face, and rough and dull in others. The presence of blackheads is frequent, and pores appear larger than normal when the skin is too shiny.
For combination skin care, specialists recommend using separate products to meet the two specific needs.
Each of these four skin types can have certain sensitivities.
Sensitive skin is most prone to inflammation. Redness and itching are characteristic for people with sensitive skin, regardless of their skin type. Moreover, people with sensitive skin often experience allergic reactions.
Skin sensitivity is most often caused by weakening of the skin's protective barrier or an overactive immune system.
To prevent and treat sensitive skin, it is recommended to avoid exfoliating products and use lotions and moisturizing creams after each wash.
Morning Skin Care Routine
The morning skincare routine focuses on prevention and protection. The skin will be exposed to environmental factors, so the necessary steps include using products that hydrate and provide sun protection.
As a result, the morning skincare routine consists of three important steps:
Skin cleansing is necessary in the morning, before applying any cosmetic product. At this stage, cleansing gels, cleansing lotions, or cleansing foams, adapted to the skin's needs, are recommended to remove accumulated dirt overnight. In most cases, products used for skin cleansing in the morning can also be used in the evening routine.
Skin hydration involves using serums or creams to protect the skin. Typically, serums have a high concentration of certain ingredients. A serum based on antioxidants will protect the skin against damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C and vitamin E are antioxidants used to improve skin texture and firmness.
Serums or oils have a light consistency and penetrate the skin more easily. Depending on the skin's needs, these may be sufficient for skincare or may be followed by face creams.
One of the rules in skincare is that cosmetic products are applied according to their nature and consistency. The lighter the product, the earlier it should be applied. Serums are easily absorbed, therefore they should always be applied before moisturizing cream. These products are especially useful if the skin shows signs of dryness, flaking, or dehydration.
In this hydration step, the eye area should not be overlooked. The skin in this area is thinner and more sensitive, prone to premature aging, which means the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, or pigment spots. A good eye cream can smooth and strengthen the area, giving it radiance.
Protection against ultraviolet rays is the final step in the morning skincare routine. Not only can it reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, but it can also diminish signs of aging by blocking harmful ultraviolet light. Specialists recommend that the products used have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to provide protection against UVB rays, as well as the mention "broad-spectrum protection," which means it provides protection against UVA rays.
Products with sun protection factor should be applied to the skin at least 30 minutes before leaving the house, both in the warm and cold seasons.
Evening Skin Care Routine
The evening routine focuses on repairing damage caused during the day, with the help of products that have a denser consistency. This is also when ingredients that can sensitize the skin to sunlight, such as exfoliants, can be used.
If, in the morning routine, the use of products with sun protection factor completes the correct care ritual, in the evening routine, the cleansing step also includes makeup removal.
Thus, the three steps to follow in the evening skincare routine are:
Makeup removal is the first step and must be done regardless of whether makeup products have been used or not. Using sunscreen in the morning requires the skin to be thoroughly cleansed at the end of the day to completely remove accumulated impurities. At this stage, it is recommended to use cleansing milk or micellar water to remove makeup or SPF.
After using the makeup remover, skin cleansing follows. At this stage, the same products as in the morning routine - foams, lotions, or cleansing gels - can be used, depending on the skin's needs.
On some evenings, before moisturizing, acids can also be used to support cell regeneration. Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid contribute to keeping the skin even and luminous.
Before the final step, we recommend using hydrating, depigmenting, or anti-aging serums.
Hydration is the last step in the end-of-day skincare routine. Using masks or moisturizing creams helps repair the skin and prepare it for a new day. Hydrating serums and creams help the skin retain moisture and, implicitly, elasticity. Applied at the end of the day, they act throughout the night so that, in the morning, the skin is soft and radiant.
A properly performed care routine supports skin health and helps keep the skin radiant and young for as long as possible. Knowing your skin type and specific needs helps establish a correct skin care process.
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.