Winter Skin Care Tips for Seniors
Although we may not always feel comfortable in our skin, it’s one of the significant systems our bodies depend on. Skincare is essential at any age, but seniors may struggle more with maintaining their skin and dealing with various skin-related conditions. Age can reduce skin elasticity, inhibit proper healing, dehydrate skin cells, and increase infection susceptibility. However, good skin care can boost self-esteem, better manage chronic skin conditions, and enhance overall well-being.
Winter Skin Care Tips for Seniors
Understanding the importance of skin care during the winter is one thing, but implementing changes in your routine is another. Here are practical skincare suggestions inspired by the American Academy of Dermatology Association's insights to safeguard seniors' skin.
1. Protect With Sunscreen
As cold as it might be outside, the newly fallen snow is the perfect reflector for the sun’s rays. Therefore, it’s a good idea to establish or continue a strict sunscreen routine, even in the winter. Broad-spectrum sunscreen works best.
2. Take Warm Baths or Showers
Hot water can quickly dry out the skin and remove essential oils necessary for hydration. Lukewarm baths or showers can give seniors that clean feeling without removing natural oils from the skin’s surface. A fluffy cotton towel can help the skin lock in moisture without feeling rough.
3. Dress in Layers
Layering clothing can help seniors stay warm and protect their skin at the same time. Reduced circulation and elasticity in the skin barrier make aged skin more susceptible to damage. Shielding skin from the elements can help maintain its health and provide warmth at the same time.
4. Stay Hydrated
Topical solutions can help address skin concerns, but some of the best solutions require addressing what’s below the surface. Hydration is critical to healthy skin, regardless of age. Your skin will likely suffer if you’re not getting enough water in your day.
5. Choose Fragrance-Free
Finding the best lotion to nourish your skin can be difficult, especially if you’re allergic to scents or specific ingredients. Fragrance-free lotions are often the best when it comes to lack of irritation. Seniors may also want to look for natural ingredients to supplement their skincare routine.
6. Invest in a Humidifier
Humidifiers increase the water content in the surrounding air, which can help supplement the skin’s ability to retain moisture. Running the heat during the winter can dry out your skin, but humidifiers combat this dryness. Some humidifiers also have built-in white noise machines, so you can run them at night to help you sleep.
7. Moisturize Often
Applying moisturizer directly after a shower can help lock in nutrients that nourish the skin. Pay attention to elbows, knees, feet, and hands. Experiment with different lotions to determine which is best for your skin.
8. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity during the winter can be challenging, but increased movement can help stimulate circulation. If outdoor exercises are out of the question, consider indoor workouts using a chair. Yoga can also assist seniors in meeting their exercise goals and reduce stress while staying out of the cold.
Love Your Skin With Visiting Angels White Plains
Skincare integrates with the home care services Visiting Angels White Plains caregivers provide to local seniors daily. Our staff supports seniors in staying hydrated, attending to personal care needs such as bathing, and improving quality of life, big and small. If you’d like to learn more about how Visiting Angels can help your senior loved one, contact us for a free consultation. Our caregivers can support you and your elderly loved one with a customized care plan to embrace the years ahead.