Rough, itchy skin. Lines and wrinkles. Blotchy skin tone. Age spots. Seniors need only to look in the mirror to see the changes we all associate with “experienced” skin. You could invest a lot of time and money in spa visits and medical procedures to dramatically improve the appearance of aging skin, but there are plenty of things seniors can do at home to achieve healthier, more vibrant skin.
Senior Skin is More Vulnerable
Natural changes that occur over time cause skin to lose strength, firmness, and elasticity. Cell turnover slows. Sun exposure and smoking take their toll. Diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and other chronic health conditions can negatively affect the skin.
In fall and winter, skincare can be even more important for seniors to combat the effects of colder, drier air. A simple daily routine and a few specific products can help you minimize visible signs of aging and restore a more youthful-looking complexion.
Fortunately, it’s never too late to get proactive about putting your best skin forward. And, by the way, skin care is just as important for men as it is for women. Men’s skin differs in some ways, but everybody needs a good routine to look their best.
Everyday essentials, in this order:
“Keep it simple,” advises the Cleveland Clinic. “Stick with a gentle cleanser, vitamin C, retinol, moisturizer, and sunscreen.” However, keeping it simple can feel daunting with seemingly endless products on the market.
It helps to understand the science behind certain ingredients to choose the best products for your skin. Research scientists urge consumers to “be skeptical about products that claim to be antiaging or able to reduce wrinkles. Many of these are considered cosmetics, not drugs.” That means they don’t have to be tested on humans or even approved by the FDA. Some have ingredients that are actually toxic or otherwise dangerous.
Good choices include antioxidants such as vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which help brighten skin, increase collagen production, and reduce the appearance of dark spots. They also help protect against environmental damage. Retinol (also known as vitamin A or the prescription-only version retinoid) boosts cell turnover for natural exfoliation, so skin looks fresher.
Don’t go overboard, though. Too much of a good thing can become damaging, and it wastes money. Choose products that provide the ingredients you need most without duplication. For example, if you are using a vitamin C serum, your moisturizer doesn’t need to contain vitamin C.
Your skin reflects your overall health. You know what that means:
Regularly inspect your skin because skin cancers, especially melanoma, can be deadly. Follow the ABCDE rule, and if even the smallest thing seems amiss, see your doctor right away.
Professional advice can help with your overall skincare decisions, too. After all, everyone’s skin is different. Talking to your healthcare provider or a dermatologist can help you zero in on a regimen and products that are best for your skincare needs.
Get More from Magnolia Manor
Looking for more resources tailored just for seniors? Our website has a variety of information just for you from blog articles, to comprehensive guides, and our free quarterly magazine. You can also learn more about quality senior living at an affordable cost by visting any of our 8 campuses in south Georgia. Schedule a tour online or give us a call any time at 1-855-540-LIFE (5433).