Free tool

Skin type quiz

Answer five quick questions to find your skin type, then get dermatologist-based tips and where to start shopping.

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, pat dry, and put nothing on it. After about 30 minutes, how does it feel?
2. By the middle of the day, how does your skin usually look?
3. How often do you notice enlarged pores, blackheads or pimples?
4. Does your skin feel flaky, itchy or rough?
5. When you try a new skincare product, does your skin sting, burn, itch or turn red?

Your result

Answer the questions to see your skin type, with tips and where to start.

Questions

How do I know my skin type?

A simple check: wash with a gentle cleanser, pat dry and apply nothing. After about 30 minutes, tight or flaky skin suggests dry, shine all over suggests oily, shine only on the forehead, nose and chin suggests combination, and comfortable skin suggests normal.

What are the main skin types?

Dermatologists usually describe five: dry, oily, combination, normal and sensitive. Sensitive skin can go along with any of the others.

Can my skin type change?

Yes. Skin can change with the seasons, age, hormones and the products you use, so it is worth checking again from time to time.

Is this quiz a diagnosis?

No. It is a general guide. If you have a skin condition, persistent redness or irritation, see a board-certified dermatologist.

Sources

  1. Skin care tips dermatologists use (American Academy of Dermatology)
  2. Oily skin: Dermatologists' tips (American Academy of Dermatology)
  3. Dermatologists' top tips for relieving dry skin (American Academy of Dermatology)
  4. How to test skin care products (American Academy of Dermatology)
  5. How to maximize results from anti-aging skin care products (American Academy of Dermatology)
  6. How To Determine Your Skin Type (Cleveland Clinic; reviewed by Lauren Zamborsky, CNP, dermatology)

This tool is general information, not medical advice. Patch-test new products and ask a dermatologist about skin conditions.