Now that the weather is changing seniors need to change their skin care routine. It’s very important for seniors to take good care of their skin. Seniors have a higher risk of developing skin cancer than younger people. Because senior skin isn’t as elastic as younger skin it’s easier for seniors to get small cuts and scrapes that can get infected and cause illness. Basic skincare doesn’t change with the seasons. Seniors need to take regular showers and cleanse their skin with gentle soap regularly. If your senior parent is having trouble showering because they have balance problems, or because they are afraid that they might fall in the shower, personal care at home is a great option for them.
Seniors who have personal care at home get specialized support with all hygiene tasks and with things like getting dressed and transferring in and out of bed safely.
Stay Hydrated
As temperatures rise, seniors need to drink more water to stay hydrated. Hydration is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing dryness. Encourage your senior parent to drink water throughout the day and help them add more hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables into their diet.
Apply Sunscreen Daily
The sun is finally coming out after a long winter, and seniors should apply sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or higher) every day to protect their skin. Seniors should look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA and UVB rays that won’t clog pores. Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours throughout the day, especially if seniors are going to be outside.
Change Moisturizers
Seniors should adapt their skin care routine to include a lighter moisturizer for spring. That will prevent clogged pores and excess oil production. The best skin care products for seniors are oil-free or gel-based moisturizers that provide hydration without feeling heavy on the skin. Seniors should apply moisturizer after cleansing morning and night to lock in moisture and keep the skin soft and supple.
Exfoliate Gently
Seniors can get healthy, glowing skin by incorporating gentle exfoliation into their skincare routine. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, allowing fresh, new skin to emerge. The key is to use gentle exfoliants that won’t irritate sensitive senior skin. Cream cleansers with gentle exfoliants are perfect for seniors.
Protect Against Allergens
Spring allergies can exacerbate skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. Encourage seniors to minimize exposure to allergens by keeping windows closed, using air purifiers indoors, and avoiding outdoor activities during high pollen times. If necessary, consult a dermatologist for allergy-friendly skincare recommendations.
See The Dermatologist
Spring is the perfect time for seniors to visit the dermatologist and get a checkup as well as a skin cancer screening. The dermatologist can check any moles, skin tags, or other growths to make sure they aren’t serious while also making sure seniors have healthy skin. And the dermatologist can be a great source of recommendations for senior-safe skin care products and sunscreen.