11 Essential Methods to Identify Your Skin Type

2. Blotting Paper Method

The blotting paper method checks how much oil your skin produces in different areas. Gently press a clean blotting sheet on the forehead, nose, chin, and cheeks for a few seconds. Hold the sheet up to the light and look for translucent oil patches. If the paper shows oil from every zone, that usually means oily skin. If oil shows only on the T-zone, that points to combination skin. Little to no oil on the sheet suggests dry or normal skin. This method is quick, inexpensive, and easy to repeat at different times of day. For best results, do the test a couple of hours after your morning routine and again in the evening. Use a new sheet for each zone so you can compare results precisely. Blotting paper can also reveal if a moisturizer or sunscreen leaves a greasy film, which helps avoid products that may clog pores. Remember that high humidity and recent exercise increase oil production, so try the method when you’re in a normal indoor setting. While blotting gives a good snapshot of surface oil, it doesn’t measure deeper hydration or sensitivity. For that, pair blotting with a bare face test or hydration check to form a fuller picture.