Determine skin type: How to recognize what your skin needs

Every skin tells its own story—sometimes radiant, sometimes moody. But how can you find out exactly what your skin needs? The answer lies in your skin type. Knowing your skin type makes it easier to choose the right care products and give your skin what it truly needs.

What determines your skin type?

Your skin type is primarily determined by how much sebum (natural skin oil) your skin produces. This sebum influences whether your skin feels dry, oily, or balanced. But be careful: Factors such as stress, hormonal changes, genes, and climate can influence sebum production and thus your skin type.

Interestingly, while sensitive skin is generally considered a separate skin type, it actually describes how reactive your skin is. Sensitivity can therefore occur in addition to other skin types.

Expert opinion by Katja Glatz (Head of Product Development)

"I don't believe in rigid skin types. Our skin is constantly changing – depending on the day, the season, and our stage of life. That's why at APRICOT, I prefer to talk about skin types that come and go, rather than about unchanging skin types. The goal is to understand skin in all its diversity and give it exactly the care it needs at each moment. Ingredients like aloe vera, ectoin, and ceramides are ideal because they are suitable for everyone, provide moisture, and strengthen the skin barrier. After all, well-nourished skin ages more slowly, develops fewer pimples, and is more radiant."

How do I find out my skin type?

In most cases, a close look in the mirror or a simple self-test at home is enough to find out your skin type.

The skin check after cleansing

This simple skin check will help you determine your skin type by observing how your skin reacts after cleansing. Wash your face with a mild cleanser and gently dry it with a soft towel. Wait about 30 minutes and examine your skin closely in the mirror:

• Shines your face strong everywhere? Then you probably have oily skin.
• Is your skin rough, flaky or tight? Then you probably have dry skin.
• Only your T-zone shines (forehead, nose, chin), while your cheeks appear dry? Then you have combination skin.
• Does your skin well hydrated and neither oily nor dry? Then you probably have normal skin.
• Does your skin feel less elastic with fine lines or dryness wrinkles? Then it could be mature skin act.

Skin types at a glance

Oily skin – too much of a good thing?

Oily skin produces excess sebum, which makes your face appear shiny and oily, especially in the T-zone. Large pores, blackheads, and the occasional pimple are often part of this. But there is one positive aspect: Studies show that oily skin ages more slowly and develops wrinkles later.

Care tip: Mattifying, lightweight, and oil-free skincare products are ideal. Katja also recommends special ingredients that regulate sebum production and refine pores.

"Niacinamide reduces sebum production, while salicylic acid cleanses pores. Vitamin C refines the skin's texture, and azelaic acid effectively regulates sebum and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Zinc also supports wound healing, and hyaluronic acid and aloe vera moisturize without weighing the skin down."

Dry skin – When the skin cries out for moisture

With dry skin, your body produces too little sebum. As a result, your skin loses moisture faster and appears dry, brittle, or even flaky. It also has reduced elasticity, making it more susceptible to irritation and visible signs of aging. Skincare plays a crucial role here, too – avoid products that can further dry out your skin.

Care tip: Moisturizing creams with hyaluronic acid or ceramides.

Katja recommends: “Aloe vera, glycerin, and plant oils are also ideal for intensively nourishing the skin and strengthening its protective barrier.”

Combination skin – the balancing act

Combination skin exhibits both dry and oily patches. The oily T-zone is particularly noticeable, while cheeks and other facial areas may be dry. Combination skin is variable and reacts strongly to seasons or hormonal changes.

Care tip: Use different care products for dry and oily skin areas.

Katja explains: “Combination skin needs a skincare product that hydrates dry areas with hyaluronic acid and ectoine while regulating oily areas with niacinamide or salicylic acid.”

Normal skin – the dream of many people

Normal skin is well-balanced, neither too oily nor too dry. It usually appears supple, has fine pores, and has an even texture. This skin type is uncomplicated and rarely exhibits sensitivities or skin problems.

Care tip: Gentle, moisturizing care is usually sufficient.

Katja recommends: "For normal, generally balanced skin, it's all about maintaining this balance and protecting the skin from environmental influences. Suitable ingredients include hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which provide moisture, and aloe vera, which has a soothing effect. Additionally, antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E help protect the skin from environmental damage.“

Sensitive skin – When the skin sounds the alarm

Sensitive skin reacts quickly and intensely to external influences such as skincare products, weather changes, or stress. Redness, itching, or burning are typical symptoms. Sensitive skin can occur in combination with any of the other skin types.

Care tip: Mild, perfume-free products.

Katja recommends: "For sensitive skin, Ectoin, aloe vera, panthenol, and centella asiatica are ideal – they soothe, strengthen the skin barrier, and relieve redness and irritation. Important: Use products without alcohol, fragrances, and dyes, and don't forget sunscreen."

Mature skin – changing needs

Mature skin often exhibits less elasticity and fine lines. It is more prone to dryness and is characterized by slower cell renewal.

Katja recommends: "Mature skin particularly benefits from vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, retinol, peptides, and antioxidants such as vitamin E and coenzyme Q10—these ingredients promote elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and effectively protect the skin from environmental influences."

Can my skin type change?

Yes, your skin type can indeed change – even with the seasons! The biggest factor here is humidity: Dry, heated air in winter can cause your skin to react very differently than humid summer air. But age, hormonal fluctuations (such as pregnancy or menopause), climate changes, and your lifestyle also continuously influence your skin type. Therefore, it's worth regularly checking whether your current skincare routine is still ideal for your skin.

Conclusion: Know your skin, pamper your skin

To answer the questions "What is my skin type?" and "What does my skin need?", it's crucial to know your exact skin type – this is the foundation for healthy, beautiful skin. With simple tests, you can determine your skin type and optimally care for it. Now you can find out your skin type at any time and specifically address its needs! Our quiz makes it easy to find out which products are best suited to your current skin type!