Summer sun is beginning the annual process of yielding to winter cold and wind.
As fast as the cold winds blow, we often find our senior’s aging skin drying out if action isn’t taken to protect it.
It isn’t just the cold outside air that can cause problems for our seniors’ skin, but the air inside their homes.
Dry, warm air affects their skin, making it drier and more fragile leading to cracking, bleeding and pain.
How can we help them deal with it?
Nourishing the Skin
Nourishing the skin is important and the moisturizer you pick should be one that contains appropriate ingredients to help repair damaged skin.
Various lotions your senior may be using will provide moisture, others will provide nutrients to help repair fragile skin, and some are made to reduce lines and wrinkles.
It is important to understand the difference between hydration and moisture and then use the correct product for senior skin.
Dehydrated skin needs to have moisture and dry skin needs oils.
One example of a cream we have tried with good results nourishing skin is Phytoplex Nourishing Skin Cream. It restores the skin’s natural moisture balance, has barrier properties without mineral oil or other petrochemicals, is breathable and absorbs readily into the skin. (Note: we received a sample to try, with no compensation; the product opinion is wholly our own)
Skin moisturizers and creams that have vitamins and minerals and essential oils can help soothe and nourish the skin. Humectants will draw water from the air into the skin. A barrier that blocks further moisture loss may be helpful to your senior.
Tips for Healthy Aging Skin
Here are some tips to keep skin healthy in the winter months:
- If your senior’s home air feels dry, try using a humidifier to keep the moisture level constant.
- Don’t use hot water on face and feet, as it tends to sap the natural moisture from one’s skin.
- Apply lotion and moisturizers to areas such as face, hands and feet frequently, especially after washing and while skin is still damp, for best absorption.
- Pat, don’t rub, the skin when washing, drying or applying creams
- Drink plenty of water, even when your senior doesn’t feel thirsty. Don’t wait for lips to get dry.
Additional Resources
Feeling comfortable in your own skin and staying healthy in the coming months is important for older adults like your senior loved one.
Here are some additional resources to help you help them keep their skin healthy.