Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and wait 1 to 2 hours without applying products
Observe how your skin feels during that time
Oily skin: looks shiny, especially on the forehead, nose, and chin
Oily skin: pores may appear larger
Oily skin: may be prone to blackheads and breakouts
Dry skin: feels tight, rough, or flaky
Dry skin: may look dull or have visible dry patches
Dry skin: may feel uncomfortable after washing
Combination skin: oily in the T-zone and dry or normal on the cheeks
Combination skin: may have both shine and dryness in different areas
Normal skin: feels balanced, not too oily or too dry
Normal skin: has few visible pores and minimal sensitivity
Sensitive skin: stings, burns, or turns red easily
Sensitive skin: reacts quickly to products, weather, or friction
Blotting sheet test: press a blotting sheet on different areas of the face
Blotting sheet test: lots of oil on the sheet suggests oily skin
Blotting sheet test: little to no oil suggests dry skin
Blotting sheet test: oil only from the T-zone suggests combination skin
Check how your skin behaves after cleansing and throughout the day
Consider whether your skin changes with weather, stress, or products
If unsure, compare your skin’s oiliness, dryness, and sensitivity across different areas