In a youth-obsessed culture, aging gracefully can seem challenging. By practicing a healthy skin care regime, you can ensure your skin stays healthy and glowing as you age. Armed with the knowledge to protect your skin from common ailments linked with aging, you can also give your skin and health a chance at a vibrant future.
Step 1
Protect your skin from the sun. Ultra violet rays from the sun cause many skin problems associated with aging -- including skin cancer, age spots, wrinkles and dryness. Keep your skin shielded by wearing at least 30 SPF sun block, avoiding tanning and covering up in the sun with hats and protective clothing.
Step 2
Moisturize your face and body with facial lotion and body lotion. According to the National Institute on Aging, many people suffer from dry skin as they age, which can cause itching. See your dermatologist for the best lotions to moisturize your specific skin type -- and also to make sure your dryness is not a symptom of a more serious problem.
Step 3
Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Dry skin can be caused by not drinking enough liquids. Dehydration can also impede on basic body functions and trigger other health problems.
Step 4
Quit smoking. Smoking dries out skin and causes wrinkles -- so if you're a smoker, start a program to quit. If you need help, see your doctor for the latest aids and tips.
Step 5
Practice stress reduction techniques. Stress can trigger dry skin, itchiness and rashes, leaving your skin in an uncomfortable state. Combat stress by finding a relaxation practice that works for you -- try yoga, meditation, deep breathing, writing in a journal, arts and crafts or exercise to reduce your stress levels.
Step 6
See a dermatologist regularly. Schedule yearly check-ups to make sure you don't have any new or developing skin formations that could be cancer or other serious conditions. If you notice any unusual-shaped moles, bumps or irregular spots on your skin -- or if you experience any pain or discomfort anywhere on your skin -- see your doctor immediately.
Tips and Warnings
- Eat a nutritious diet to keep your skin nourished and healthy. If you don't meet the daily requirements for vitamins, take a multivitamin designed for seniors. Antioxidant vitamins help your skin stay healthy and fight the effects of aging on the skin. Exercise regularly to facilitate good circulation, which keeps nutrients pumping into your skin cells. See your doctor for an exercise plan that suits your age and health condition.
- Skin tags, flesh-colored bumps of skin, are common in aging skin. Although they're harmless, skin tags can be uncomfortable if they rub against clothing or folds of skin. See your dermatologist for removal if a skin tag bothers you.
Things You'll Need
- Sunscreen with at least 30 SPF
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Moisturizing facial lotion
- Moisturizing body lotion
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