10 Things Seniors Can Do For Healthier Skin

Seniors will experience a lot of physical changes as they age, including some dramatic changes in their skin. As seniors get older their skin will lose a lot of plumpness and elasticity. That means seniors will need to make good skin care a part of their daily life in order to protect their skin. If seniors don’t protect their skin they could be prone to rashes, infections, and in extreme cases even skin cancer. To keep skin healthy seniors should make these 10 skin care essentials a priority:

Moisturize With A Thick Moisturizer

To protect their skin seniors should use a moisturizer designed to protect thin or fragile skin. A thick moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides is recommended by dermatologists for senior skin. Seniors also can use creams designed for babies like diaper cream because it designed to protect delicate skin.

Use A Gentle Soap

Heavy soaps and bodywashes can be very damaging to senior skin. Harsh soaps strip the natural oils from skin and can be very rough on fragile skin. That can cause dryness, rashes, and irritation. The best soaps for seniors are very gentle chemical-free soaps with no added fragrance. Fragrance oils can also irritate skin. Baby soap and shampoos are also good for seniors.

Use Sunscreen Daily

Sunscreen is something seniors should be applying daily, just like a facial moisturizer. Seniors should be putting sunscreen on their face, arms, hands, and any part of them that is visible. Senior home care can help make sure that seniors are protected by the sun. A senior home care provider can carry sunscreen when seniors go out and make sure they apply it each day.

Protect Skin From Cold And Hot Air

When seniors go out in the cold air they should wear layers of clothes to make sure all their skin is protected from harsh dry cold weather. And in the summer seniors should wear long sleeves and long pants made from light natural materials that will allow for good air flow and circulation.

Use A Humidifier In Winter

Indoor heating systems can significantly reduce humidity levels, leading to dry air that can sap moisture from the skin. Seniors should use a humidifier to add moisture to the air, especially in bedrooms, to prevent their skin from becoming excessively dry.

Protect Hands and Feet From Cold

The extremities are often the first to suffer in cold weather. Seniors should wear gloves, mittens, and warm socks to protect their hands and feet from the cold. Applying a thick moisturizer and wearing cotton gloves or socks overnight can help to heal and soften dry, cracked skin.

Choose Skincare Designed For Mature Skin

Seniors should update their skincare regimen and invest in skincare designed for mature skin. Products designed for seniors will help solve many of the common complaints seniors have about the appearance of their skin. Seniors should also choose products containing antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, which will help protect the skin from environmental damage.

Exfoliate Sparingly

Exfoliation of the skin is necessary for good skin health. But doing it too often can destroy fragile skin. Gentle exfoliation with a loofah or light cloth once a week is all that is necessary for most seniors.

Keep Moving

Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which is excellent for the skin. Seniors should engage in activities that promote circulation, such as walking, yoga, or gentle aerobics. This helps deliver nutrients to the skin and promotes a healthy glow.

Get Regular Skin Cancer Screenings

Seniors should have a dermatologist and get regular screenings for skin cancer. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, but if it’s caught early it’s often treatable. Regular skin cancer screenings are essential for seniors.

Reference
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/skin-care/skin-care-and-aging

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior home care in McPherson, KS, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home Central Kansas today. Call 620-603-0685.

Touching Hearts at Home Central Kansas is a Trusted Home Care Agency Barton, Dickinson, Edwards, Ellis, Ellsworth, Great Bend, Hutchinson, Larned, Lyons, Marion, McPherson, Newton, Pawnee, Rice, Reno, Salina, Sedgwick, Stafford, and the surrounding areas.