Skin Types Explained: Why Normal Is Not the Goal

Send us Fan MailIs there such a thing as normal skin?In this episode, I revisit one of the oldest and most misunderstood concepts in skincare. The idea of skin types as dry, oily, normal, or sensitive has been with us for more than a century. But does it still make sense today?I explain why normal skin is not a scientific reality and why dry or oily skin can still be perfectly healthy. Using modern dermatological knowledge, I break down genetic predispositions, circadian rhythms, microbiome activity, and how skin naturally protects and repairs itself throughout the day and night. I explore when oiliness or dryness is normal, when it becomes a condition, and why aggressive attempts to “fix” shine or tightness often do more harm than good. I also explain why personalized skincare matters far more than chasing an average ideal.This episode lays the groundwork for understanding your skin as it truly is, individual, dynamic, and biologically intelligent.Episode resources:Dr. Leslie Baumann – The Science of Natural BeautyStandard Evaluation of the Patient: The Merz ScaleUnilever says no to 'normal' with new positive beauty visionLearn more from the previous episodes:The Sensitive Skin Epidemic: What Your Skin Is Trying to Tell YouUnderstanding Wrinkles: Types, Causes & What Actually WorksSkin Pigmentation: Causes, Triggers, and Treatments That WorkBeat Jet Lag: Skincare, Sleep & Travel SecretsBeyond Retinol: The New Science of Safer, Smarter SkincareConnect with us:Meder by Dr. Tiina MederMeder Beauty InstagramMeder Beauty FacebookMeder Beauty TikTokMeder Beauty LinkedInMeder Beauty YouTubeListen to the Meder Beauty Podcast on Apple Podcasts