Common Skin Problems as You Age and How to Address Them
As we get older, our skin undergoes natural changes that can lead to various skin conditions. Being proactive and using the right skincare products can help minimize these age-related skin problems. Here are some of the most common skin issues that occur with aging and tips on how to treat them.
Dryness and Dehydration
One of the most common effects of aging is that the skin becomes drier. The skin’s natural oils start to deplete over time, often leaving the skin feeling tight and flaky. Dryness can lead to irritation, and itchiness, and exacerbate other skin conditions like eczema.
To combat dryness, use gentle cleansers without sulfates and consider adding a hydrating toner to your routine. You can find the best face toner at a store a little easier if you are aware of what type of skin you have. Look for moisturizers with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Humidifiers can add moisture to the air to prevent excessive dryness. Avoid very hot showers and limit baths, which can strip the skin of oils.
Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Fine lines and wrinkles are caused by decreased collagen production as we age. Sun exposure also plays a major role. Expression lines or wrinkles form over areas where we make repetitive facial expressions.
Using retinol correction serums can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Retinol encourages collagen production and cellular turnover. Always wear an SPF 30 sunscreen during the day to protect against further sun damage. For expression lines, look for products with peptides that relax the muscles. Non-invasive treatments like chemical peels and laser resurfacing can also retexturize the skin.
Age Spots and Discoloration
Age spots, also called liver spots, are irregular patches of pigmentation that appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, arms, and neck. They form due to excess melanin production triggered by UV light exposure. Skin also becomes thinner and more translucent with age, making veins more visible.
Exfoliating dead skin cells and using creams with vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinol help fade discoloration over time. Chemical peels remove the top layers of skin to reveal fresher and more even-toned skin. Always wear sunscreen when going outside to prevent new dark spots from developing. Laser treatments and cryotherapy (freezing spots with liquid nitrogen) can remove stubborn pigmentation.
Loss of Elasticity
As we get older, skin loses its elasticity or ability to snap back after being stretched. This leads to sagging skin and jowls along the jawline and neck. Loss of elasticity occurs due to decreased collagen and elastin fibers in the skin from aging and sun damage.
Use products with peptides and antioxidants, which can stimulate collagen production. Vitamin C serums also help boost collagen. Facial massages improve blood circulation and may temporarily firm up the skin. For significant sagging, non-surgical skin tightening treatments use ultrasound to lift and tighten the skin. In severe cases, a facelift may be recommended.
Increased Sensitivity
Mature skin tends to be more sensitive than younger skin. The skin’s barrier function weakens with age, making it more vulnerable to irritants. Added sensitivity leads to conditions like rosacea. Skin may feel tingly, itchy, or irritated more frequently.
Opt for gentle cleansers without fragrances or dyes. Avoid harsh scrubs and exfoliants. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe, green tea, oatmeal, and chamomile in moisturizers. Wear sunscreen when going outside. Reduce time in hot tubs or saunas, which can trigger flushing. Laser and light treatments help treat visible redness and inflammation.
With diligent skincare and protective measures, you can keep your skin looking healthy and radiant as you get older.