ISLAMABAD: Taking care of the skin is essential for maintaining overall health and confidence. Skin is the largest organ of the human body which represents our outer look and personality.

This was stated by Dr Mubashir Mushtaq Daha, Registrar Department of Dermatology at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims).

He said that environmental factors like air pollution, smog and varying weather conditions could impact the skin.

`Consulting the dermatologist/skin specialist for any kind of skin concern or treatment will ensure that your skincare plan is tailored according to the need and type of your skin. Professionals recommend the best treatment such as chemical peels, hydra facials or advanced therapies to keep skin looking its best,` he said.

He said that usually people have four types of skin: normal, oily, dry and combination.

`Normal skin is balanced and neither too oily nor too dry. For people with normal skin, maintaining this balance is the key.

`Regular cleansing, moisturising and sun protection are essential. Oily skin produces excess sebum, giving a shiny appearance and a higherlikelihood of acne and clogged pores. Common features include enlarged pores,frequent breakouts and greasy feel.

To manage oily skin, opt for oil-free products and gentle exfoliation to unclog pores. Sun protection is equally important for all types of skin,` he suggested.

`Dry skin lacks moisture and may feel tight or rough. Indicators of dry skin include flaky or scaly texture, fine lines and wrinkles, and redness or irritation. Using hydrating cleansers and rich moisturisers can help restore your skin`s barrier and make it less dry.

`Combination skin is a mix of oily and dry areas, often with an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and dry cheeks. Key traits include varying skin textures, shine in specific areas and occasional breakouts. Balancing combination skin requires targeted care for each area. Its care also changes with the changing weather because it becomes dry in winter and oily in summer seasons.

So you need to adopt the skin care accordingly,` Dr Daha said.