03 Feb How to Care for Aging Skin

After age 60 the skin often begins to experience dryness and irritation, attributed to factors such as increased thinness and increased vulnerability to water loss. Additionally, the influence of medications and medical conditions can also contribute to skin issues. 

Understanding these factors and their impacts can provide insight into the aging process and guide efforts to maintain skin health:

Loss of Elasticity: Collagen and elastin fibers in the skin break down over time, leading to a loss of skin elasticity. This results in sagging and wrinkles.

Thinning of the Skin: The epidermis (outer layer of the skin) tends to thin with age, making the skin more fragile and prone to damage.

Reduced Oil Production: Sebaceous (oil) glands become less active, causing the skin to become drier. This can contribute to itching and the development of fine lines.

Decreased Hydration: The skin’s ability to retain moisture decreases, leading to dryness. This can be exacerbated by environmental factors such as low humidity.

Slower Cell Turnover: The rate of skin cell turnover slows down, leading to a longer time for the skin to regenerate. This can result in a duller complexion and slower healing of wounds.

Decreased Collagen and Elastin Production: The body produces less collagen and elastin as it ages. These proteins are crucial for maintaining skin structure and elasticity.

Development of Age Spots: Sun exposure over the years can lead to the development of age spots or sunspots, particularly on areas exposed to the sun, like the face and hands.

Loss of Subcutaneous Fat: The layer of fat beneath the skin (subcutaneous fat) decreases, leading to a loss of volume in the face. This can contribute to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.

Decreased Blood Circulation: Blood flow to the skin decreases with age, affecting the skin’s ability to receive nutrients and oxygen, which can slow down the healing process.

Formation of Wrinkles: Dynamic wrinkles (caused by facial movements) and static wrinkles (caused by aging and sun exposure) become more pronounced.

Development of Skin Lesions: Benign skin growths such as seborrheic keratosis, skin tags, and lentigines may become more common.

Fortunately, there is positive news: adopting the appropriate skincare regimen can enhance the comfort and appearance of aging skin.

Regular Skin Checks:

• Seniors should perform regular self-examinations of their skin to check for any changes, such as new moles, spots, or lesions.

• Pay attention to any changes in color, size, shape, or texture of existing moles or lesions.

Sun Protection:

• Seniors are often more susceptible to sun damage due to aging skin. It’s crucial to use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

• Regularly check for signs of sun damage, such as age spots, and discuss any concerns with a dermatologist.

Hydration and Moisturizing:

• Aging skin tends to be drier, so it’s essential to stay hydrated by drinking enough water.

• Use a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness and itching.

Gentle Cleansing:

• Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid irritation.

• Be gentle when cleansing to avoid stripping the skin of natural oils.

Diet and Nutrition:

• A balanced diet with adequate vitamins and minerals is essential for overall skin health.

• Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseed, can help maintain skin elasticity.

Medication Management:

• Some medications may have side effects affecting the skin. Ensure your healthcare provider is aware of all medications being taken.

• Report any new rashes or skin issues to your healthcare provider promptly.

Manage Chronic Conditions:

• Conditions like diabetes can impact skin health. Proper management of chronic conditions is essential for maintaining skin integrity.

While aging is a natural process, adopting a good skincare routine, staying hydrated, protecting the skin from the sun, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate some of these effects of aging skin. Consulting with a dermatologist for personalized advice is recommended.