We’re all individuals — we each have our own specific sets of preferences, issues, and strengths. And the same goes for skin, minus the fact that we don’t really have a choice in the skin we’re born in. It’s important to note that where we live, which season it is, and things like travel and exercise can also affect our epidermis. The notion of identifying and catering to your skin type may sound complicated, but it’s actually quite simple.

It’s beyond essential to care for our skin. It’s the body’s largest organ; the layer that protects us from and is visible to the outside world. It probably comes as no surprise that using the wrong skin products can negatively affect your skin — certain products can cause those with oily skin to break out, while harsher products could damage the delicate visages of those with sensitive skin.

Think of shopping for skincare products as being akin to looking for a romantic partner — the product has to fit your lifestyle and your needs, will majorly affect your day-to-day life, and can hold the power to make you miserable or even more happy and radiant. The pressure is on! But we’re here to take some of the pressure off, and to break things down quite simply.

You’re likely thinking, “what is my skin type?” And wondering which products you should be using to keep things as clear, smooth, and glowy and possible, day in and day out. Read on to learn about how to care for your skin.

Is your skin type normal?

Yes, you most likely have normal skin if your skin is firm, you tend to experience very few breakouts, experimenting with new products doesn’t seem to negatively affect your skin (you don’t get rashes or patches of redness or dryness), traveling doesn’t seem to bother your skin, and the changing of seasons doesn’t have too much of an impact on the way that your skin looks and feels.

If your skin is normal, you’re lucky in that you can use a range of products that could present others with issues. Your best bet? Keep things simple. Cleanse with a gentle, simple product such as our Gentle Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, and then use the Lightweight Daily Face Moisturizer. Because your skin isn’t very needy or problematic, you can pretty freely experiment with different eye creams and face oils. Have fun with different products! Your skin’s requirements are as no-fuss as it gets.

Is your skin type combination?

You most likely have combination skin if parts of your skin are dry, others are oily, you experience occasional blemishes, and, and, and...Well, a bit of everything, depending on the day. Different areas of your face seem to have different personalities, and they can all be a bit moody.

So what can be done to get everyone behaving properly? Stray from pore-clogging ingredients, keep things simple, and don’t forget to moisturize. It’s also essential that you keep your skin clean with a gentle, mild cleanser. Stick to products that are super clean, as synthetics and unnecessary additives will only cause things to get even more complicated.

Is your skin type acne-prone?

Yes, if you experience frequent breakouts.

What can be done? You’ve dealt with a lot when it comes to skin. Keep the experimentation with skincare products to a minimum. Your skin needs tender, loving care and a bit of epidermal therapy. Soothe your eye areas with a cooling, relaxing eye concentrate, and use acne-specific products to treat the problem areas.

Is your skin type oily?

You most likely have oily skin if your skin is perpetually glow-y, dewy, and, well, a bit oily. You may already use a powder to blot the shine, and find that some products seem to “melt” off of the surface of your face. You may even dread summertime and tropical climates, solely because your skin seems to want to compete with the sun for first place in the “brightest and shiniest” competition.

How to take care of it and make it look more matte? For those with oily skin, it’s a game of shine control. Avoid mineral oil, petrolatum, and alcohol — which is easy when you’re selecting from Ghost Democracy. Look for products that are non-comedogenic, as they can easily clog your pores. Note that even though your skin is already oily, you still need to use a good, lightweight moisturizer. It’s counterproductive not to because if you don’t, your pores will actually produce even more oil to try to compensate for the lack of moisture. And of course, keep your skin super clean! Dirt plus oil is an equation for disaster.

Is your skin type dry?

You have dry skin if your skin is often flaky, sensitive, and itchy. When it’s wintertime or if you live in a dry climate, it may even “crack.” Dry skin simply means that your skin doesn’t retain enough moisture.

Worry not! Your dry skin can be softened, moistened, and nourished in a snap with the right products. Try this Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which is a non-irritating, moisture-boosting serum. Apply it daily and you’ll find that it hydrates, firms, and smooths your skin instantly. Cracks, dryness, and flakes be gone! Make sure that you’re also staying hydrated and not eating too much salt, as these will dry your skin further.

Is your skin type sensitive?

You probably have sensitive skin if you flush easily, frequently experience a stinging or burning sensation when you use products, rash easily, get small bumps on your face, and have a few dry, flaky patches of skin. You’ve tried tons of products, and a lot of them seemed to be too intense for your super-delicate skin.

What can be done? Avoid chemicals, parabens, fragrances, added colors, and anything synthetic. The more simple and clean the product, the better. Our entire line is free of everything that could potentially complicate or harm your skin. It’s full of soothing, gentle products that are about as clean as they come. Wash your face with care, and consider sleeping on a silk pillowcase. If you need help with the basics, we recommend our Starter Kit — it’ll have you glowing, sans irritation, in no time.

Is your skin type mature?

Changes in your skin as you get older are normal. You may notice wrinkling, sagging, dark spots, dryness, or a dull, tired-looking complexion.

Care for it with respect — you, and your skin, have certainly earned it. If you haven’t already started, now is the time to get serious with your anti-aging skincare regime. A good serum can also work wonders when it comes to firming and brightening your skin.

So there you have it. Your skin is your protector, and it’s your duty to protect, honor, and care for it depending on its needs. Regardless of what type of skin you have, using some the cleanest, always ethically produced, and purest products that are available on the market will help you to glow, radiate confidence, and look as beautiful as you possibly can.