Aging skin is something we all have to deal with at some point in time, and when that time comes, it helps if you know how to care for your aging skin so that acceleration of the aging process does not occur and serious skin problems do not manifest. Proper skin care involves effectively cleansing your skin, as well as protecting your skin from the sun and keeping a watchful eye for skin disorders that can turn out to be serious if not addressed.
Step 1
Always make sure that you care for aging skin with a gentle hand. When cleansing your skin use a light touch, and gently apply moisturizer afterwards to combat dryness. Wash the face only once a day, before going to bed at night, and never use hot water on skin as hot water will dry skin out and damage your skin. Shower less frequently, and use a mild moisturizing soap. Exfoliate the skin on your face and body once a week, using an exfoliant designed for sensitive skin. Do not use the product you use on your body on your face. Use an exfoliant that is made for the skin on your face. Follow all instructions printed on any products you use.
Step 2
Help prevent further aging of your skin by avoiding the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun by covering your skin with full length clothes, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses that offer full protection from the sun. Put sunscreen on your skin that has a sun protection factor (SPF) that is higher than 15 and is a broad spectrum sunscreen. If after applying your sunscreen it gets washed off due to bathing or perspiring, reapply it after a couple of hours.
Step 3
Check your skin at least every 30 days for abnormalities that can turn cancerous. Be suspicious of moles or birthmarks that are not symmetrical, have uneven edges, are a combination of colors or have changed in color. Also be concerned if moles or birthmarks seem to be growing in size, changing shape, or are sore, itchy and bleed. Have skin conditions such as these examined by a dermatologist without delay. Ask your doctor to remove any age spots or skin tags if you have them and want them eliminated, keeping in mind age spots and skin tags are not usually harmful.
Step 4
Find a licensed esthetician and have a facial once a month. Facial massage is usually included in a facial and can improve the appearance of aging skin. Massage of the face helps to stimulate oil production, resulting in increased moisture and better looking skin. Skin will also look better after facial massage as circulation is improved. Muscles are also toned and relaxed when facial massage is performed.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a humidifier if you have dry skin.
Things You'll Need
- Mild moisturizing soap or cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Mild body scrub
- Mild exfoliant for your face
- An SPF that is higher than 15
References
- Nia.nih.gov: Age Page: Skin care and aging
- Milady's Standard Textbook for Professional Estheticians, Joel Gerson, 1999
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