Top Skin Care Tips as You Age

5.4 million cases of skin cancer are reported annually. Skin cancer is by far the most common of all cancers. However, Melanoma is the most dangerous but only accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers. It accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths. Melanoma risk increases as you get older with the average diagnosis being age 63 according to the American Cancer Society.

While skin cancer does affect people of all age groups, it is predominant in those aged above 65, according to a report by The National Center for Biotechnology Information. This is because as one grows older, their skin naturally changes. It heals slowly, develops age spots and becomes thinner, drier and wrinkled. Skincare products previously used might prove inadequate. This is however not to mean senior citizens cannot enjoy good looking skin. The secret to having supple smooth skin in your later years is simply making certain adjustments to your skincare routine.  

Eat the Right Food

A healthy diet plays a significant role in the appearance of your skin. Research by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed who consumed vitamin C had fewer wrinkles and dryness in their skin. Foods that contain hyaluronic acid (HA) also come highly recommended. This is because HA has been scientifically proven to hydrate the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, making it appear healthier, younger, and more supple. Sources of HA include potatoes, sweet potatoes, leafy vegetables, bone broth, lean proteins, especially from animals, soy products, and fruits that are packed with Vitamin C. Other foods that improve your skin appearance include melons, walnuts, salmon, berries and avocados.

Improve Your Daily Routine

Many times, you will find the elderly avoid taking showers. This is because they tire quickly, get cold faster, and lose their sense of balance as they age. Nevertheless, cleaning the skin is an essential part of any skincare routine. Seniors should bathe once or twice a week for not more than 10 minutes, according to Medical News Today. It would be best if you bathed with warm and not hot water because hot water strips the skin of natural oils essential in keeping it moisturized. Replace bar soaps with fragrance-free, mild and creamy cleansers or emollients. During your shower, apply healing masks on your face. These help to minimize the appearance of wrinkles. Ensure you leave some water on the skin after drying yourself with a towel to provide extra moisture. Your skin will thank you for it. Apply moisturizer in less than 3 minutes after your shower and during the day.   

Protect Yourself from The Sun

UV rays significantly damage the skin. Too much exposure to the sun has damaging effects on the skins of seniors, which do not heal as fast. It can cause dryness, age spots, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. You should, therefore, protect yourself from UV rays if you plan on going out. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 after moisturizing. Wear shades to protect your eyes. Lastly, go for clothes that protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking inhibits blood flow to vessels that cover the utmost part of the skin, making it look pale. It also reduces the nutrients and oxygen penetrating the skin hence reducing the elasticity and strength of the skin, which naturally already suffers when you age. These effects lead to the development of wrinkles and increase the possibility of getting skin cancer. Avoiding smoking prevents the onset of the effects mentioned above.

It is perfectly normal for you to notices changes in your skin as you get older. It just means you have to go the extra mile when it comes to your skincare routine to get that vibrant looking skin. Skincare routine aside, it is advisable for the elderly to visit dermatologists regularly. This is because of the chances of getting skin diseases such as skin cancer increase as one gets older. Regular screening can help curb such conditions before they become problematic.