The great news is, summer means it’s prime time to go outside and enjoy some nice warm weather. Soak in some Vitamin D and enjoy some ice-cold drinks on the patio. But we can’t forget, as we age, our skin needs more care and attention than it once did!
Protecting your skin starts when you wake up in the morning. It’s so important to have a regular skin care regiment especially as you get older—your skin needs a little more TLC and you deserve to do that for yourself. Look good, feel good!
7 Senior Skin Care Tips
Morning Senior Skin Care Routine:
Step One: Cleanse
Cleaning off the oils that accumulate overnight and throughout the day are equally important. So be sure you’re washing twice daily (once in the morning and once in the evening).
It’s also a good idea to avoid harsh exfoliating cleansers (which can irritate sensitive skin), especially ones with “granular” substances like micro-beads. Instead choose a moisture-rich, creamy cleanser that will be gentle on your skin while still cleaning it thoroughly.
Step Two: Protect
Gone are the days of baby oil and iodine tanning on the beach (really, please don’t ever do that!). It’s now clear that skin, when not cared for ahead of time, can be dangerously damaged by strong UV rays from the sun.
It’s extremely important to be consistent about using broad-spectrum sunscreen every time you go out (at minimum use SPF 30). This will help fend off burns and potential cancerous affects from the sun.
Still, keep an eye out for pimples that don’t heal or bumps that easily bleed. These are signs that you should go see your doctor or dermatologist who will be able to give you steps and products to care for the damaged areas.
Step Three: Moisturize
Barrier creams and heavy-duty moisturizers are essential parts of keeping your skin looking healthy. Your skin is a stretchable barrier around your body, so making sure that it’s pliable and strong is a key factor in maintaining its health. The AARP suggests that seniors consider using moisturizers that contain humectants (an ingredient that helps to reduce the loss of moisture) and sealers (ingredients that help to prevent the product from evaporating).
Additional Senior Skin Care Tips:
After your morning routine is set you can also take some simple steps throughout the day to make sure you’re protecting yourself further.
Drink Water Throughout the Day
Staying hydrated has a wide range of benefits within your body. Did you know it was also good for your skin? A healthy supply of water will help you and your skin stay hydrated and it will also help to flush out toxins in your system that can cause skin problems throughout the day.
The Right Clothing
In the summer it’s great to get out and enjoy the sun on your patio or terrace when the temperature is right. But preparing yourself to go outside is just as important as all the creams and moisturizers! Consider wearing a wide brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the harmful UV rays (with the bonus of looking stylish). Also make sure you have a pair of quality UV protection sunglasses as the skin around your eyes can be especially sensitive as you get older.
Limit Time in the Sun
It’s alright to go out during the day, but be careful during the sun’s peak hours. During the summer try to avoid being outside for extended periods during the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. And don’t be fooled by cloudy skies, you may not feel the rays beating down on you but the clouds let through the harmful UV rays that can cause severe sunburn.
Be Aware
When you’re out enjoying yourself on a sunny afternoon with friends or family it’s easy to get caught up in your vibrant activities. But during the summer months be sure to pay attention to how you feel.
If you start to feel like the sun is beating down on you move yourself or ask someone to help you move into the shade for a bit. If you start to feel dizzy, confused, or have a headache make sure you drink some water and get inside. These can be signs of sun stroke which can be especially dangerous for seniors.
Look and Live Vibrantly!