I read Dr. Baumann's book and think I am DRPW. I have a problem, though, with products not absorbing. It takes about 1 hour in the morning for my moisturizer to absorb, which means I have to wait to apply makeup or my skin will be too oily. It seems like the moisturizer just sits on the surface. You're probably wondering what kind of moisturizer do I use? I've tried all kinds, even those formulated for oily skin (Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer All Day Moisture Lotion & DDF Matte Finish). I use a slightly foaming cleanser (DHC) and Origins White Tea toner.

If I don't apply anything at all after cleansing, my skin is painfully tight. I live in a somewhat humid climate (Pacific Northwest). I've been to drier climates and my regular products have left my skin too dry. Some mornings I just apply a light serum and then cream foundation (Vincent Longo Water Canvas - water-based, no oil). I still have to apply a powder because my skin is too oily after the cream foundation. I've tried a powder foundation before and that definitely left my skin looking dry and dull.

Most afternoons, my skin is an oil slick as well and I use oil blotting papers or more powder to get it under control. I'm wondering what is going on here. Do I really have dry skin? Combination? Why would my skin be so non-absorbant yet so tight? I appreciate any feedback.