AE(-), DP(.), PE(+), VP(-), AP(.)... these are far from the terms used to define "traditional" skin types: oily skin, normal skin, combination skin, and dry skin. At Typology, we have identified 24 different skin profiles, not just 4, based on a more advanced scientific methodology. But what exactly does the term AP(.) mean?
AP(.), what does it mean?
Summary
Published on August 7, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 4 min of reading
Themes:
What do the initials AP(.) stand for?
Skin ageing ABSENT
Oxidation Factor PROTECTED
Sebum Production BALANCED (.)
The letter "A" for Absence of signs of ageing.
The letter "A" indicates thatno signs of ageing are visible on the skin. Indeed, three main manifestations can affect the appearance of the face, namely wrinkles, a skin sagging (loss of volume) and loss of density. Generally, the first signs of skin ageing appear around the age of 25, reflecting the changes that occur in the different layers of the skin (slowing down of cell renewal, reduction in lipid production, decline in the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, decrease in the size and number of fat cells...). Although ageing is an inevitable process, it is possible to prevent and exert some control over the various factors affecting the speed of ageing, and thus delay the appearance of the signs of ageing.
The letter "P" for Protect against oxidation factors.
The letter "P" signifies that the skin is well protected against the sun's UV rays. Beyond these beneficial effects on mood or vitamin D secretion, excessive sun exposure is the main cause of premature skin ageing and the onset of skin cancers. Indeed, UVA rays can cause dermal changes especially in the elastic tissue, and UVB rays lead to epidermal damage. Activation of free radicals, alteration of the cell membrane, DNA modification... UV rays act differently within skin cells to generate damage, which can alter the cell's function, cause its death or provoke DNA mutations leading in the long term to the formation of cancerous cells. Thus, even though the skin has some defences against UV rays (melanogenesis, endogenous antioxidant system...), it is important to regularly apply a sufficient amount of a sunscreen product that is suitable for one's phototype and sun exposure conditions, to ensure reasonable exposure while limiting risks.
The point "." for Balanced Sebum Secretion.
The "." indicates a balance in sebum production. Naturally produced by the sebaceous glands, the sebum is a fatty substance that helps the skin to protect itself against external aggressions and to fight against dryness by being part of the composition of the hydrolipidic film. Comfortable and soft to the touch, this skin type has a matte appearance without a shiny effect or "crocodile skin", and its skin texture is regular and uniform with pores tightened. It is naturally well hydrated, protected, and blemishes are rare. However, despite this skin balance, it also requires specific care to maintain its abilities and strengthen its regulation mechanisms.
