Skin types and pores

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Let’s Talk About Skin, Baby…
As a  makeup artist and beauty therapist, one of the most common conversations I have with clients is about understanding their skin and more importantly, what it actually needs. From dry patches to oil overload, it’s easy to get confused by all the noise out there. So let’s clear things up (literally and figuratively) with some skin truths you need to know.
Dry Skin vs. Dehydrated Skin
These two are not the same but they often get mixed up!
  • Dry skin lacks oil. It needs rich, nourishing creams and facial oils to replenish what’s missing.
  • Dehydrated skin lacks water. This skin type benefits from ingredients like hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water.
Sensitive Skin: It’s a Condition, Not a Type
Contrary to popular belief, sensitive skin is not a skin type, it’s a condition usually caused by external factors such as:
  • Weather
  • Diet
  • Hormones
  • Incorrect skincare products
Even oily skin can be sensitive, often the result of overusing harsh products in an attempt to “fix” oiliness. If your skin feels irritated or reactive, it may be crying out for gentler care.
Pores: Let’s Get Real
You cannot shrink your pore size… sorry! But you can minimise their appearance.
Here’s how:
  • Exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells that clog pores and cause them to stretch.
  • Apply makeup with a pore-blurring primer, think of it as Spanx for your face.
    Some great options:
    • Budget-friendly: e.l.f. Pore Putty
    • High-end: Danessa Myricks Skin Blurring Balm
Removing dead skin also naturally smooths the texture, making everything else sit better on the skin.
Pollution: The Dirty Little Secret
Pollution particles are up to 20x smaller than the diameter of a pore. Yikes. That’s why proper cleansing is a must, especially at night.
  • Avoid wipes – they just move dirt around.
  • In a hurry? Use micellar water, but ideally:
    • Use cream or gel cleansers with cloths or mitts for a deeper clean.
    • Avoid alcohol-based toners – they strip the skin and leave it tight and thirsty.
Applying expensive serums to uncleansed, unexfoliated skin? They’ll just sit on top or worse, slide off.
Cleanse, Gently and Regularly
Cleansing morning and night is key for removing makeup, sunscreen, and pollution. Failure to do so can lead to breakouts, dullness, and premature ageing.
  • Use lukewarm water – not too hot, not too cold.
  • Pat your face dry (don’t rub!) to protect the delicate skinbarrier.
SPF: Every. Single. Day.
Yes, even when it’s cloudy. Even when it’s raining.
SPF daily is non-negotiable if you care about preserving your skin’s health and youthfulness. Prevent now rather than trying to correct later!
You Are What You Eat (and Drink)
A heavy night out will show up in your skin; puffiness, dullness, and all. And don’t get me started on salty snacks after the pub…
  • Load up on water and veggies, your skin will thank you.
  • Try it for a week and watch the glow return.
Final Word: Get Proper Skincare Advice
Your skincare routine should be tailored to your skin type not someone’s TikTok ad.
As a qualified Suffolk beauty therapist, I see so many clients using the wrong combinations and wondering why nothing’s working. Skincare isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Think of your face like a car. You wouldn’t put diesel in a petrol engine and if you did, you’d regret it. The same goes for skincare.
Need help figuring out what your skin actually needs? Book a consultation with a professional Suffolk makeup artist and beauty therapist (ahem, me!) and let’s create a routine that works for you not against you.