The skin damage that appears in older people reflects cumulative cellular damage caused by factors such as exposure to sunlight, toxins, certain drugs, smog and stress. Strong sunlight encourages the generation of free radicals--unstable molecules inside the cells of the body--which require antioxidants for restabilization. The aging process, however, reduces the body's ability to produce antioxidants. Collagen, the skin protein responsible for elasticity, is especially susceptible to free radical damage.
Vulnerability
As your skin ages, it becomes thinner, the cells lose water and the protective layer of fat underneath disappears. The nerve endings' ability to sense pressure, temperature and vibration may be reduced. All of these factors make skin more vulnerable to disease and injury. Aging skin repairs itself up to four times more slowly than young skin, which makes it more vulnerable to infection. Diseases and conditions associated with age, including heart disease, lowered immunity and blood vessel deterioration can contribute to skin diseases.
Skin Cancer
Cumulative exposure to the sun increases your chances of developing skin cancer as you age. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It rarely spreads and usually can be removed via surgery. Squamous cell carcinoma is less common but more aggressive. It usually can be treated with surgery, but you have a greater chance of spread or recurrence if the tumor is larger than 2 cm, is deeply embedded in the tissues or is located on your lip or ear. Melanoma is the most aggressive and dangerous form of skin cancer and may spread via the lymphatic system. If detected early, surgical removal may prove effective, but if it has spread, chemotherapy may be necessary, and some melanomas cannot be cured.
Shingles
Shingles-–a painful rash caused by resurgence of the chicken pox virus—is most common in older people or those with damaged immune systems. You may experience burning, itching, tenderness or a numb sensation on one side of your body before the onset of the rash. The rash begins with reddening of the skin accompanied by groups of blisters, which form scabs after a week to 10 days. The rash may spread to the eye or ear and cause vision or hearing dysfunction. The rash usually heals in approximately four weeks.
Stasis Dermatitis
Blood vessels deteriorate as you age. This increases pressure inside the veins, which may lead to inflammation and reduced blood supply to the skin. Stasis dermatitis may develop in the lower legs. It starts as a series of small, itchy purple dots where blood has leaked out of the damaged blood vessels. As the condition worsens, the skin may turn reddish-brown and develop a shiny appearance, and it may feel tight. Fluid-related swelling in the legs sometimes accompanies this condition. If you sustain injury in the affected area, it may not heal properly due to poor circulation.
Protection
Reducing your exposure to UV radiation is an important first step to protecting your skin as it ages. Topical application of antioxidants may help protect the skin, particularly when used in conjunction with sunscreen. Regular skin examinations by a dermatologist are important because early detection of skin cancer increases the chances of complete recovery. Cigarette smoke, poor diet, harsh chemicals, excess alcohol and insufficient sleep contribute to skin aging. Avoiding these will decrease your risk of age-related skin diseases.
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