A Senior’s Guide to Healthy Skin - Say No to Dry Skin

Your skin changes as you grow older. It grows thinner, drier, and less elastic. However, there are many simple things you can do to keep your skin looking and feeling as healthy as possible.

If you’re wondering why your skin is less supple than it used to be, there are many possible causes. That includes certain medical conditions and natural physical changes, like your glands slowing down. Lifestyle plays a part too, especially if you sunbathe or smoke cigarettes.

Learn how to care for your aging skin. And the very first thing that we’d like to deal with is caring for dry skin. Xeroderma and xerosis are the medical terms for dry skin. Dry skin can make you uncomfortable and self-conscious and may cause infections if left untreated.

Try these tips to keep more moisture in your skin:

1. Avoid hot water.

Long hot baths dry out your skin. Try soaking briefly in warm water instead. Wear rubber gloves while hand washing dishes.

2. Dry off gently.

Older skin requires a light touch. Pat yourself dry with a soft towel and leave your skin a little damp. Use your fingers to wash instead of stiff brushes or sponges.

3. Moisturize frequently.

Apply moisturizer at least once a day, especially after bathing. If your current brands are inadequate, ask your doctor for recommendations. You may need a different formula, or you may want to use larger amounts.

4. Stay hydrated.

Drink water throughout the day. Your sense of thirst declines with age, so it may benefit you to create other reminders to help you stay on track.

5. Humidify your home.

Indoor heating and air conditioning dry the air. Run a humidifier to bring the relative humidity back to 30 to 50 percent.

6. Avoid scratching.

Try to keep your hands off of irritated skin to avoid infections. If you’re itchy, use cold compresses or shop for ointments at your local drug store.