Which of the following skin types is characterized by an absence of moisture and can lead to flakiness?

The skin type characterized by an absence of moisture and the potential for flakiness is indeed dry skin. Dry skin occurs when the skin lacks sufficient sebum, which is the natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands. This deficiency can lead to rough texture, tightness, and visible dryness, manifesting as flakiness or scaling. Dry skin can be further exacerbated by environmental factors like cold weather, low humidity, and certain skincare products that strip the skin of its natural moisture.

In contrast, oily skin is marked by excess sebum production, leading to a shiny appearance, larger pores, and a propensity for acne. Balanced skin indicates a well-maintained equilibrium between oil and moisture levels, which is neither too dry nor too oily. Combination skin presents characteristics of both dry and oily skin, often with an oily T-zone and drier areas on the cheeks or other parts of the face. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting appropriate skincare products and treatments tailored to each skin type.