Which of the following describes the five basic skin types?

The five basic skin types are correctly identified as normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Understanding these categories is essential in skincare because each type has distinct characteristics that dictate the appropriate products and treatments to use.

Normal skin is characterized by a balanced moisture level, minimal imperfections, and a smooth texture, making it relatively easy to care for. Oily skin produces excess sebum, often leading to a shiny appearance and a higher propensity for acne and enlarged pores. Dry skin lacks sufficient moisture, which can lead to flakiness, irritation, and a feeling of tightness. Combination skin displays characteristics of more than one skin type—typically an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) while the cheeks may be dry or normal. Lastly, sensitive skin is often reactive and may experience redness, irritation, or allergic reactions to certain products or environmental factors.

By accurately identifying each skin type, skincare professionals can better tailor their advice and treatments, leading to improved outcomes for their clients. The other choices do not provide the correct classifications or include misleading descriptors that do not represent the fundamental understanding of skin types in beauty therapy.