Skin is one of the main concerns for people when it comes to displaying signs of aging. As people age, skin becomes thinner, which can add to the appearance of wrinkles. Aging skin will naturally lose elasticity and moisture with age. Scratches and bumps will take longer to heal. Sun exposure can even add to ragged dryness, age spots, and in some cases, even skin cancer. The skincare routine used while we were young may no longer help as we get older. However, there are some methods for skincare for seniors that might help.
Common Changes of Aging Skin
As we age, our skin is bound to change. Most of these changes are natural and not a cause for concern. Here are some common skin changes:
- Drier skin
- Thinner skin
- Itchy skin
- More age spots, wrinkles, and creases
- Blotchy skin
- Skin that’s more easily irritated
- Skin that bruises easier
- Less sweaty skin
- Longer healing time for skin damages
Easy Changes to Skin Care Routine
Some changes that can be easily applied to your skincare include:
- Use a creamy, fragrance-free cleanser rather than bar soap
- Use warm water rather than hot water
- Use a soft cloth rather than a brush to clean skin
- Shorten bath or shower time to ten minutes
- Pat dry rather than rub dry skin
- Use a creamy, fragrance-free moisturizer after bathing
Skin-healthy Choices You Can Make
Some skin-healthy choices you can make for aging skin include:
- Protecting skin from the sun with a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Choosing fragrance-free skincare and laundry products
- Drinking more water to stay hydrated
- Keeping indoor humidity between 45% and 60%
- Seeing a dermatologist for skin cancer exams
Foods for Aging Skin
Consider these skin-healthy foods for aging skin:
- Watercress – Internal antiseptic properties with high levels of vitamin A and C
- Red bell peppers – Assists with collagen production; also has antioxidant properties that can protect skin from sun damage, pollution, and environmental toxins
- Papayas – Can help to improve skin elasticity and shed dead skin cells
- Blueberries – Can help protect skin from damage due to sun, stress, and pollution
- Spinach – Can hydrate skin and keep it firm and smooth
- Nuts – Can help repair skin tissue, retain moisture, and protect from UV rays
- Avocados – Can be beneficial to shed dead cells and protect from toxins and UV rays
- Sweet potatoes – Can be helpful in restoring skin elasticity and rejuvenate skin cells
Care for Seniors
Many things change as we age, and we need to be vigilant in keeping up with self-care. At Nevada Adult Day Healthcare Centers, our staff is dedicated to caring for seniors. Allow us to navigate what the senior in your life needs to live a happy, healthy life. Contact us today for more information.
