Winter seems to make everything feel crisp and fresh, but unfortunately, it's not always kind to our skin. As we age, our skin becomes more susceptible to the drying, harsh conditions of the colder months. These harsh conditions especially affect older adults whose skin doesn't retain moisture as well as it once did. This blog post provides practical, easy-to-implement skincare tips to keep your skin healthy, comfortable, and radiant throughout the season. With a focus on hydration, choosing suitable moisturizers, protecting your skin from harsh weather, and supporting skin health through diet, you or your caregiver may incorporate these winter skincare practices into your daily routine. These steps will assist in keeping your skin comfortable and help to avoid skin tears and other complications.
The Importance of Hydration
When the winter chill sets in, maintaining hydration is crucial. Though we might not feel as thirsty as in the summer, the lower humidity that comes with winter saps the moisture from our skin, leaving it feeling dry, tight, or itchy. In seniors, the winter air may exacerbate the natural loss of moisture that comes with age. Drinking fluids throughout the day, such as water, herbal teas, or clear broths, is essential for maintaining healthy hydration levels inside and out. Additionally, consider using a humidifier in your living space to add moisture to the air, especially while sleeping.
Choosing the Right Moisturizers
As you bundle up to brace for the winter weather, your skin also needs extra care to stay healthy. Moisturizing is a simple way to bolster your skin's defenses against the harsh winter air. When choosing a moisturizer, look for products specifically designed for dry or sensitive skin, as these tend to offer more nourishing ingredients. Also, opt for creams over lotions, as creams have a thicker consistency that provides a more substantial barrier. Make moisturizing a part of your daily routine, applying it after bathing when your skin is still damp to lock in the moisture.
Protecting Senior Skin From Harsh Winter Weather
The cold, dry air of winter strips away our skin's natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to dryness, cracking, or even skin tears. To protect your skin, dress appropriately for the weather. Wear protective clothing like gloves and scarves to limit your skin's exposure to the cold. Remember to apply sunscreen as well. The sun's harmful UV rays may still cause damage despite the cooler temperatures. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
Maintaining a Healthy Diet for Skin Health
Skincare isn't just about what you put on your skin; it's also about what you put in your body. A balanced diet rich in hydrating fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports your skin from the inside out. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E and Omega-3 fatty acids are known to help maintain skin health and elasticity. Consider incorporating delicious foods like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, citrus fruits, fish, and nuts into your meals for their skin-loving benefits.
Senior Helpers Can Help
Taking care of your skin, especially in winter, is a necessity. Ensuring proper hydration, utilizing nourishing moisturizers, protecting your skin from harsh weather, and maintaining a balanced diet can help our skin stay healthy and prevent potential complications. As you navigate these colder months, remember the importance of proactive skin care.
If you or a loved one needs assistance with daily wellness tasks, including skincare, Senior Helpers Lake Minnetonka and Surrounding Areas wants to help. Don't hesitate to contact us if you reside in Minneapolis, Osseo, Excelsior, Wayzata, Chaska, and beyond. We would love to discuss our services for seniors and their caregivers, such as Wellness Watch and Personal Care.