Skin Types

Normal skin is moderately acidic, a mixture of sweat and natural sebum excreted from the pores. Skin pH should be around 5.5, but can vary in the range 4.0 - 6.5. This layer of acidity is known as the "acid mantle" an integral part of our natural defence mechanisms. As we are all aware, different people have different types of skin. The 5 main skin types are:

Normal Skin

Normal skin feels neither dry nor oily. Pores are visible and fine, not large. Occasionally has pimples.

Dry Skin

Dry skin has thin papery texture, dry to the touch. Pores are very fine. May experience regular flaking. Pimples unusual. Unable to retain moisture and low levels of sebum (natural oil) production. Requires high levels of production: Moisturiser during the day and a cream at night

Oily Skin

Oily skin has a thick and coarse texture, often feels greasy and looks shiny. Often breaks out with pimples. High levels of sebum production. Needs to be cleansed regularly.

Combination Skin

A combination skin is a mix of dry and oily patches: dryness often on cheeks. The "T zone"(across the forehead and down through the nose to the chin). Quite a common skin type. Each area needs to be treated differently.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is easily irritated, with regular feelings of itchiness, burning, chafing. May be some redness and flakey patches. Occasional pimples

The face has an elaborate network of sensory nerves, which is why the face is often the most easily irritated section of skin. It is also what literally faces the weather every day, and the skin we are most conscious of.

At the Soap Box we have a range of soaps which the manufacturers claim are suitable for sensitive skin or those with other dermatological conditions. Many of our customers repeat-order a specific product once they have found one they suit. Sometimes this involves a bit of trial and error.