Healthy skin should feel hydrated and comfortable, neither oily nor dry.
In more detail, healthy skin, often referred to as "normal skin," possesses a balanced moisture level. This means it doesn't feel tight, flaky, or rough due to dryness, nor does it feel greasy or slick because of excess oil. It simply feels comfortable to the touch.
Here's a breakdown of what healthy skin should not feel like:
- Not Dry: Dry skin often feels tight, itchy, or even flaky. It might appear dull and can be more prone to irritation.
- Not Oily: Oily skin feels slick to the touch and often appears shiny, particularly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). It can be prone to breakouts.
Healthy skin is free from these extremes, feeling instead supple and comfortable. It suggests a balanced production of sebum (the skin's natural oil) and adequate hydration. According to Dr. Ugonabo, the key characteristic of normal skin is the absence of oily or dry patches.
