As you get older, your skin will change. It typically loses elasticity, gains wrinkles, and becomes more sensitive than in previous years. Although it might seem like less skin care is the answer, aging skin is all the more reason to provide better care to your body. Otherwise, you’ll leave your skin vulnerable to infections and dryness.
Ready to learn more about some of the best skincare tips for seniors? You’re in the right place. Even though older adults have skin that has undergone more wear and tear over the years, that doesn’t mean skincare isn’t still necessary. Let’s dive into ten of the best tips for seniors who want to keep up with the care of their skin.
1. Drink Ample Water
One of the best things you can do for your skin is to drink water. According to multiple studies, water helps restore fluids to the skin that are lost through metabolic processes, sweating, breathing, and the removal of waste. Drinking water will keep moisture inside your skin, helping it look younger.
Drinking water will help reduce the severity of wrinkles on your skin, flush toxins from the body, and hydrate. Not only is it beneficial for your skin, but it’s also ideal for older adults to remain hydrated throughout the day for health reasons.
2. Put On Sunscreen
Another thing to do is to put on sunscreen, especially in the morning before you start your day and go outside. A healthy layer of sunscreen will protect your skin from sunburns, skin cancer, wrinkles, and potential discoloration that can come from the sun.
Studies show that sunscreen is an effective choice in filtering out dangerous UV rays that will harm the skin and cause cancer in the rest of your body. There are many products available, but it’s best to go with a natural product like the Blue Lizard sunscreen.
Related: 3 Essential Skin Care Routines for Seniors
3. Wash Gently
The older you get, the thinner your skin is and the less oil it produces. Thus, it tends to be more delicate. Wash once a day with a mild product and gentle hands for ideal results.
Also, warm water is a better option for washing your face instead of scalding or freezing options. This temperature will be kind to your skin and provide a far more comfortable washing experience.
4. Use Moisturizer Every Day
Always moisturize your skin at the beginning and end of the day. Part of retaining moisture in your skin is drinking plenty of water, but the other half is applying a moisturizer or cream before going out for the day and going to sleep at night.
Using products after baths and at the beginning and end of the day will help prevent rashes and itchiness. Products like Cetaphil moisturizer are excellent, unscented choices.
5. Use a Simple and Consistent Routine
The easiest routines to keep are ones that are simple and consistent. When you wash, try to use as few products as possible and apply them at the same time in the morning and evening.
The simpler you are, the more consistent you can be. The more consistent you can be, the better your skin will be able to far as you age.
6. Use Mild Products
Another recommendation is to use mild products. Unfortunately, some of the most promoted products on the market for skincare are filled with chemicals, scents, and fillers that do more harm to the skin than good. If you want the best for your body, use mild products that are unscented if possible.
Popular brands that produce gentle skincare products include CeraVe, Cetaphil, Dove, and more. Many online resources will be able to tell you about the cleanliness of a product before you spend money on it.
7. Try Bathing Every Other Day
Although it might seem strange, bathing every other day will be beneficial for aging skin. Sitting in water for a long time every day has the potential to damage the skin barrier and leave you more vulnerable to issues.
This tactic might not be possible for everyone. However, it’s a strong recommendation if you want to keep your skin refreshed, clean, and safe.
8. Limit Caffeine
There is limited information on whether or not caffeine impacts the skin. However, for the sake of general health, it’s recommended to keep your intake down to around two smaller cups a day.
It might be a good idea to keep up with various caffeine studies in the science world. In time, the general opinion on caffeine for your skin might change.
9. Eat Well
Another of the best skin care tips for seniors is to eat as healthy as possible. Ideally, the food you eat should have vitamins, nutrients, and more. A balanced plate should have vegetables, whole grains, healthy protein, fruit, water, and healthy oils.
Good eating will keep your skin strong and protect it from outside sources as you age. Foods like salmon and leafy greens are excellent additions to your body.
Related: Healthy Eating Hacks for Seniors
10. Don’t Smoke
Most people aren’t aware that smoking does more than damage your lungs. According to one study, smoking will age your skin and provide a leathery appearance because it reduces the blood flow, allowing aging to happen prematurely.
Smoking isn’t beneficial for any part of your body. In your later years, it’s best to kick this habit as soon as possible.
Final Thought on Skincare Tips
It’s a good idea to care for your skin as you age to keep it safe and protect your body. All these tips will benefit you, from washing your skin gently to avoiding smoking in your later years. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to treat your skin well.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine your comfort level in caring for your skin. The water you drink and the products you use are up to you – but our tips will help you keep your aging skin in excellent condition as you enter your golden years of life.
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