You Might Have Subclinical Skin—Here’s What You Should Know

When we think of the major skin types, our minds go right to the heavy hitters: oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, combination skin; you know the drill. But have you ever sat and thought to yourself, though, “My skin doesn’t really fit?” You’re not alone. If you’ve experienced the frustration that comes with random breakouts, sudden onsets of redness and any other array of inexplicable skin issues, you may have subclinical skin—and yes, there’s a way to treat it.

What Is Subclinical Skin?

This is a question I, too, would have asked myself on first hearing the term “subclincial” skin if it weren’t for a recent panel with No.7 for the brand’s new Derm Solutions line, where I learned all about what subclinical skin means and exactly how to treat it. “Subclinical skin is skin that has not been diagnosed with disease but can have both visual appearance changes such as blocked pores, redness as well as non-visual changes such as increased skin sensitivity and low levels of inflammation under the skin,” explains No7 head of science research Dr. Mike Bell. Essentially, subclinical skin is unpredictable skin—skin that looks, feels (or looks and feels) different day to day, with or without a set trigger. “Often there may be a trigger for this inconsistency, such as psychological stress or poor sleep, but it becomes difficult for your skin to return to its previously more consistent self,” Dr. Bell says, adding that, in some cases, subclinical skin can advance to clinical pathology or diagnosed skin disease.

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What Specific Skin Needs Are Associated with Subclinical Skin?

By nature, subclinical skin is unpredictable and not easy to nail down. However, certain symptoms and warning signs commonly associated with subclinical skin can help guide your healthy skin journey. “There may be frequent changes in levels of hydration and oiliness in subclinical skin, which underlines the need for maintaining a consistent routine of cleansing and moisturizing to manage these inconsistencies,” says Dr. Bell. The expert also points out visible pores and an “increased propensity” for spots and blemishes as other key indicators of a subclinical skin type, as well as frequent or sudden changes in skin tone and level of skin sensitivity.

How to Treat Subclinical Skin

With a skin type as irregular as subclinical skin, it may feel impossible to nail down a routine that provides real, consistent symptom relief. That’s why No7 developed its Derm Solutions line, a collection of products aimed at soothing and healing subclinical skin. “No7 Derm Solutions Cleanser ($28) and Moisturizer ($28) has been dermatologist-approved and expertly formulated for sensitive skin and your specific, subclinical skin type,” says Dr. Bell, who adds that keeping your regimen simple is key to handling subclinical skin. “Stick to products that you know your skin tolerates, and try to keep to the same brand to minimize the number of different ingredients your skin is exposed to,” Dr. Bell says. Whether your subclinical skin skews more oily and blemish-prone or drier and more sensitive, No7’s Derm Solutions line offers a simple, science-backed cleanser and moisturizer duo to help you take control of your symptoms.

As always, consulting with a professional and taking action early is the best way to find relief for skin-related concerns. “If you are aware of any external triggers that exacerbate your skin fluctuations (e.g., environment, poor sleep, diet), try to avoid these triggers if at all possible,” Dr. Bell says. “If you’re concerned that you may have skin disease, seek the advice of a dermatologist as early intervention may prevent progression to disease.