Shelly has had some serious issues recently. Her left calf has been so itchy that she can’t even fall asleep. It’s especially severe when she forgets to shower for a few days. Shelly has consulted her family doctor and the doctor told her that it’s because of aging. Shelly has never thought that getting old would change her skin, given that she used to have oily skin and pimples were her “best friend” when she was young. Now she realizes that it’s time to change her skincare routine as an aging adult.

As the largest organ in our body, our skin does change drastically, just like other parts of our body when aging progresses – it becomes thinner, rougher, and loses its shine. These changes are not only from an aesthetic point of view, but your skin generally becomes much more susceptible to diseases, which could cause more problems to your health. There are a few common skin problems you may face if you are over 60, which we will outline below

Common Skin Concerns in Older Adults

• Dryness and Itchiness   

Seniors generally have issues with dryness and itchiness, especially the skin on the lower legs, elbows, and lower arms. The skin around these areas usually feels rough and scaly. There are many things that cause dry skin:

• Not enough liquid intake

• Excessive sunbathing

• Being in a dry environment

• Smoking

• Stress

• Losing function in sweat and oil glands

• Diabetes

• Kidney problems

• Skin Infections

Bacterial infections are more likely to occur on dry skin since people with dry skin have more fissures and fractures, giving bacteria more chances to enter and cause surface infections. Elderly persons in crowded places, such as long-term care homes, are particularly vulnerable to the infestation’s proliferation.

• Wrinkles

This one goes without saying; our skin is doomed to have wrinkles as it ages. Sunlight and other environmental factors, such as pollution, can cause the skin to lose its elasticity, and the skin itself droops because of gravity. Smoking and other bad habits can accelerate this process as well.

There are a lot of claims on how to get rid of wrinkles, and you can see them everywhere in the media. Unfortunately, most of them don’t work. There are methods that work, but they can be harmful or even painful, and must be performed by a doctor.

• Age Spots and Skin Tags

Age spots, also as known as “liver spots”, are caused by chronic exposure to sunlight. Face, arms, back, and even feet are popular locations for these larger-than-freckled brown spots.

Skin tags are pieces of flesh-colored skin with a raised surface. It is common in older adults, especially in females. The eyelids, neck, and body folds, including the armpit, chest, and groin, are the most common places to find them.

Skin tags and age spots are usually benign, unless they become irritated. Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about age spots or skin tags.

• Bruises

As we become older, our skin gets thinner, and our veins and bones are more visible, making them more vulnerable to injury.

Senile purpura, or bruises caused by ruptured blood vessels, is a common complication with aged skin, and forearms are the most prevalent place to them. In addition, aging causes the skin to take a longer time to heal after injury. It could be also either be a sign of a deficit in vitamins or a blood problem.

• Skin Cancer

Seniors who have had more sun exposure earlier in their life may develop skin cancer. As we age, we are more likely to develop basal and squamous cell carcinomas, which are the most dangerous facial skin problems. They usually begin as tiny lumps and grow in size over time. So, if you notice any increasing skin growths or a sore that won’t heal, see your doctor.

How to Take Care of Your Skin as You Age

• Cleanse

Cleansing your skin twice daily is a critical step for everyone, no matter what age you are. Cleansing the right way can also help relieve dry skin. Avoid hot baths, frequent showering or bathing, and excessive skin scrubbing. Choose cleanser that removes the oil, makeup, and pollution without stripping your skin of moisture.  Instead of using harsh soaps and alcohol-based products, there are many mild cleansers to use instead:

• CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

• Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser

• Moisturize

Using a moisturizer is especially vital for people with dry skin. Consider double-duty formula moisturizers that can “draw in water” and “seal the water in”. Some seniors prefer using oil; just remember to apply serums beforehand. If you are living in a dry environment, using a humidifier is also useful in adding moisture to the room.

• CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

• Vichy Aqualia Thermal Rich Cream Moisturizer (Rich)

• Protect

  Remember how we talked about how important it is for us to protect our skin from sunburn? Look for a sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 or higher. It’s best to choose sunscreens with a “broad spectrum” on the label. Apply the sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you head outside and reapply at least every 2 hours. To see a list of recommended sunscreens, see our blog post on “Safe and Fun Summer Activities for Seniors”!

   

  References:

  https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/428/skin%20_problems_in_the_elderlyi_nsc#2

  https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/skin-care-and-aging