Aging brings changes to the skin, making it more important than ever to adopt healthy care habits. Skin changes like thinning, dryness, and age spots are common age-related conditions. Paying extra attention to your skincare routine and developing habits that promote skin health can do wonders in maintaining that natural glow in your golden years.
1. Protect Skin From the Sun
The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm aging skin, making it essential to shield yourself to avoid sunburn and lower the risk of skin cancer. Here are some helpful sun protection tips:
- Use Sunscreen: Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it generously to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can offer added protection from the sun.
- Seek Shade: Stay indoors or under the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest.
2. Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration plays a significant role in maintaining healthy skin, supporting healthy skin cells, and improving skin elasticity. Dehydrated skin is more prone to dryness and itchiness and can appear dull and blotchy. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Keep a water bottle with you for easy sipping if you struggle to reach this intake. You can also incorporate water-dense foods like cucumbers, watermelons, and oranges into your diet for an extra hydration boost. Staying adequately hydrated supports healthy skin cells and improves overall skin elasticity.
3. Use Gentle Products
Choosing the right skin care products is essential for protecting sensitive senior skin. Opt for products that are gentle and specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Use soap-free cleansers that are less likely to strip away natural oils from your skin. Look for fragrance-free moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin that lock in moisture. Avoid products with strong fragrances, alcohol, or other irritating chemicals. Milder skincare products minimize irritation and keep your skin feeling fresh and comfortable.
4. Manage Common Skin Concerns
Common skin concerns among seniors include dryness, bruising, and age spots. Consider using a humidifier at home to add moisture to the air and prevent dryness, especially during winter. Apply moisturizer right after bathing to seal in moisture. Over-the-counter lightening creams can reduce the appearance of age spots. Bruising easily is common for seniors because thinning skin is less protective of vessels. Most bruising is harmless and will eventually disappear without treatment. However, some medications can also contribute to frequent bruising. Your doctor can determine if your medication or another underlying issue is causing the problem.
5. Talk to a Dermatologist
A dermatologist can provide personalized advice and treatment options to deal with persistent dryness, age spots, or any other skin concern. They can help manage skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea. Dermatologists can also examine your skin for suspicious changes that might indicate the presence of skin cancer. Early detection of any skin problems makes treatment easier and more effective.
Senior Helpers Can Assist With Personal Hygiene and More
If you’re considering additional home support, particularly with personal hygiene and daily care, Senior Helpers Northwest Indiana can help. We offer professional in-home care services tailored to the specific needs of the seniors in our community, from personal and companion care to assistance with routines and more. Contact us today to explore your options in Crown Point, Hammond, Lake County, and East Chicago!