What to Avoid Most by Baumann Skin Type®
Even if you think you’re doing everything right to keep your skin smooth, clear and healthy, there could be one or two products in your skincare arsenal that are standing between you and the results you’re looking for. If you know your Baumann Skin Type, detecting which products to avoid and which to stock up on is that much easier, because you and your dermatologist can custom-tailor each and every aspect of your daily routine. If you’re not sure what your Baumann Skin Type is, head on over to www.SkinTypeSolutions.com to find a physician near you who can help you find out!
Once you know your skin type, use the following as a basic guide for which products and ingredients you’ll want to avoid, depending on whether your skin is oily or dry.
Ingredients to Avoid for Oily Skin Types
Generally speaking, most oily skin types don’t need to use a daily moisturizer, as your skin already produces enough of its own oil. This can, however, depend on your “oily” score in the Baumann Skin Type Questionnaire.
As for other common culprits of skin problems for oily types, here are a few notable ones to avoid:
- OSNW skin types should avoid benzoyl peroxide to fight acne, as it can cause burning, stinging and redness. If your Sensitive/Resistant score is lower (between 30 and 34), you may be able to tolerate benzoyl peroxide in combination with an anti-inflammatory moisturizer to help counteract irritation.
- OSNT skin types are prone to rosacea, a common skin condition characterized by red flushing, bumps and visible blood vessels (American Academy of Dermatology). Those with rosacea should avoid using toners because they typically contain drying ingredients that can trigger flare-ups.
- ORPW skin types should steer clear of cream cleansers or cold creams. Gel or foaming cleansers are a better option for your skin.
Ingredients to Avoid for Dry Skin Types
When you have dry skin, your skincare products should replenish moisture and protect the skin barrier to help minimize irritation, flaking and itching. Dry skin types should typically stay away from foaming cleansers, ordinary bar soap and toners, which can strip away the skin’s natural lipids.
- DSPW types should avoid foaming cleansers, as the ingredients responsible for “suds” can have a drying effect on the skin. Instead, cleansing oils, cream cleansers and anti-inflammatory serums and gels are good choices for your skin.
- DSPTs should also stay away from foaming cleansers and products that contain detergents or other irritating ingredients.
- Most DSNW skin types cannot use retinoids, although those with acne-prone skin rather than redness-prone skin may be able to tolerate it.
The Bottom Line
The first step in creating a customized and effective skincare routine is to know which of the 16 Baumann Skin Types you have. Understanding your skin’s characteristics will help you and your dermatologist find the best products to maintain healthy skin, while also avoiding ingredients and products that can cause negative side effects. While there are a few generalizations you may be able to make about your skincare based on whether your skin is oily or dry, there is much more to the larger picture than just this one quality. That’s what makes knowing your Baumann Skin Type so beneficial! Find a physician to help you find a skincare routine to help with your rosacea.
Dr. Leslie Baumann, M.D. and her team at Baumann Cosmetic Dermatology believe in proof, not promises. World-recognized for both cosmetic and general dermatology, our treatment strategies rely exclusively on evidence-based, scientifically verified products and procedures that promote skin health and a natural appearance. We combine effective medical procedures with individualized instruction on proper skincare, nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle in order to maximize the health of the skin and body as a whole while minimizing the effects of aging. For more, visit Dr. Baumann’s blog for daily updates Monday through Friday, or inquire about an appointment through Derm.net.
