What skin type am I? Self-analysis made easy

To find the right skincare and make-up formula, you need to know your skin type. Your original skin type is genetically determined, i.e. you were born with it. However, the skin's needs change with the season, climate, food, health, stress levels - in short: observing and listening to your skin is the be-all and end-all of proper skincare.

A quick (and painless) way to find out your skin type is to dab your face with a tissue as soon as you wake up:

Dry skin The cosmetic tissue is clean, but the skin feels dry and tight. Dry skin quickly shows fine (dryness) lines and is more susceptible to irritation and signs of ageing.

Oily skin The cosmetic tissue has oily patches where the facial skin is oily, which is often the case in the T-zone (chin, nose, forehead). Oily skin usually appears thick and shiny and easily develops blemishes.

Combination skin The cosmetic tissue only has oily spots on the oily areas of the skin, but is clean on the dry areas. Combination skin needs different care concepts for different areas of the skin.

Sensitive skin Sensitive skin is usually very dry and often tight, and is also easily irritated and reddened. Sensitive skin is the most problematic of the skin types and needs special care.