Skin Care Tips for Seniors
By Ewa Frydel, Owner
We can nurture radiant skin at any age.
As we age, our skin can become thicker, thinner, or more textured. Our skin undergoes many changes and we find ourselves saying goodbye to the baby soft skin of our youth.
That doesn't mean seniors don't deserve to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. We can implement a proper skincare routine no matter what age we are.
Let's explore the benefits of a skincare routine and how seniors can begin ritual tailored for their skin type to help them maintain healthy and radiant skin.
1. Hydration. Water is life. A vital component to healthy skin is making sure your senior stays hydrated. Water can help flush out toxins that damage cells or age us faster. It can also help add a glow and soft supple skin texture. Getting adequate amounts of water each day, and throughout the day, helps improve your senior's elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Gentle Cleansing. Luckily, today there are many plant-based and chemical-free products that help boost skin's appearance. There is no need for harsh chemicals or abrasive products that destroy our skin's texture.
Your senior will need to use products that are gentle on the skin but still do an effective job at cleansing bacteria, dirt, and pollutants that can get trapped in their pores. Opt for pH-balanced cleansers that are specifically formulated for mature skin. Look for vegan and cruelty-free brands that support nutrition for skincare routines.
Seniors should use a gentle massage motion when cleansing rather than a rough face cloth. Lukewarm water or even cold water helps protect the skin, as well, reducing any potential damage that very hot water can give.
3. Moisturize. Along with hydrating with water, your senior will want to hydrate on the outside too. Moisturizers should be labeled as hydrating and some may say "dewy" on the bottle which helps support soft and healthy skin textures.
During the colder months, get a formula that is a bit thicker than your hotter month brands, which can be lighter in consistency. The main focus is to moisturize the dry areas of the body, not just the face, but neck, elbows, knees, or anywhere else our bodies tend to get dry.
4. Sun Protection. Wide-brimmed hats, clean and safe sunscreens, and light long-sleeve clothing can help protect the skin from sun damage. Age spots, wrinkles, leathery textures, and dryness can come on when our skin is exposed to sunlight too long or too often. Be sure to stay protected when the sun is at its hottest.
5. Nourish from Within. Fruits and vegetables can offer extra hydration, but also vitamins that support healthy skin and a radiant glow. Whole food in general can be easy on the digestive system. If your senior is consuming foods that are low in fiber and cause constipation, this can prevent healthy nutrition from getting absorbed, which also blocks nutrients from reaching cells and affects our skin's appearance.
You'll want your senior to avoid or limit alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and processed foods which all can dry out their skin. Some medications can also dry the skin out, so increasing healthy nutrient-dense foods is crucial to maintaining healthy skin.
Good skin takes commitment.
It requires discipline to cleanse properly, avoid harmful foods and beverages, and to adopt a new skincare routine.
Each person will be different. Seniors can contact their Dermatologists and a Nutritionist to find lifestyle habits that support great skin. Experimenting and educating yourself on products is good, too. Be cautious when experimenting.
We advise you to look up reviews on products and speak to a professional about the risks that may occur. However, reading labels and looking products up is very important. Not all companies tell the truth about their "promises''.
You'll want to make your own educated decision before adding anything to your skincare routine.
For more information on skin care tips for seniors, contact us.
We're here to help!
Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about tips for elderly skin care and are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice.
