Many seniors think that as they age, they don’t need as much care and attention to protect their skin from harmful UV rays. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five adults will develop skin cancer by the time they turn 70. The longer you live, the more likely you are to develop skin cancer.

Protecting yourself with the best lotion for older skin is a great way to ensure your skin stays healthy. Not only can these products decrease the risk of UV rays exposure, but they can also provide your skin with added benefits.

This blog will discuss why senior skincare should be important to your healthcare routine. We’ll also talk about what types of lotions you should look for to provide you with the most advantages.

Understanding Sun Exposure Risks for Older Skin

Our skin begins to lose water and fat content as we age, causing it to thin. Unfortunately, thin skin makes it easier for UV rays to penetrate through.

An older body also has more difficulty naturally repairing damaged DNA, increasing the chance of abnormal cell growth. This can result in mutations, which may form into skin cancer. Other ways the aging process affects our skin include:

Declining immune system may cause DNA mutations to cause cancer
More susceptible to cancers from DNA damage in the future
Many age-related conditions and diseases contribute to immune decline

Humans also regularly expose their skin to harmful things that further weaken our skin’s defenses. Some seniors move to sunnier climates during their retirement years and engage in activities that increase their sun exposure, such as:

Tennis
Fishing
Golfing
Walking

Thankfully, skin cancer is mostly preventable since we know that UV rays are its primary cause. Prevention, even in your later years, isn’t too difficult of a task, especially if you know what to do to protect your skin.

Choosing the Best Lotion for Older Skin

One of the easiest ways to prevent sun damage is to invest in a high-quality sunscreen. You should wear sunscreen every day, even if you don’t go outside. UVB and UVA rays can penetrate through windows, causing damage to your skin even when you’re inside.

Seniors should also explore a cream for aging skin to add to their daily skincare routine. These products seal in moisture and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps ensure you reap the benefits of other products in your skincare routine.

Figure Out Your Skin Type

Facial sunscreens come in multiple formulas that are suited for different skin types. Your healthcare provider can assist you with determining what your skin type is.

Sunscreen ingredients that will work for all skin types include:

Hyaluronic acid
Ecotin
Collagen

Look for Fragrance-Free and Hypoallergenic Options

An elderly person’s skin may be different than when they were younger. Some things to keep in mind about the skin type of elderly adults include:

Their skin can be more sensitive
More prone to reactions to fragrance and eczema

It’s recommended that seniors look for hypoallergenic sunscreens and lotions, which minimize the likelihood of allergic reactions or irritation.

Fragrance-free lotions and sunscreens are also a great choice for preventing uncomfortable reactions. Chemical scents can sometimes cause redness or rash on a person’s face. Staying away from scent-free products is a great way to easily avoid these problems.

Know What Type of Lotion You Want

There are multiple types of moisturizer options available. These include:

Oils
Creams
Ointments
Lotions

Your personal preference will determine what type you choose. However, thicker moisturizers, like ointments or creams, are better options for mature skin.

That’s because they have a higher ratio of oil to water than other lotions. As a result, they can be more hydrating for mature and dry skin.

Focus on Beneficial Ingredients

There are a few things that are important for elderly skin. These elements include:

Protect against sun exposure
Restore the skin’s protective barrier
Help the skin retain moisture

While reading through the ingredients on a skincare bottle can be challenging, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. Some ingredients you may want to keep an eye out for include:

Peptides
Retinol
Niacinamide
Antioxidants

We’ve talked about the importance of using both sunscreen and a moisturizer. Some great options include UVB and UVA protection in them. You should aim for an SPF 30 and above when shopping for elderly skin.

Proper Application of Sunscreen for Mature Adults

One thing to keep in mind when shopping for sunscreen is you’ll want to choose a product that’s labeled “broad spectrum.” That means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Applying sunscreen the right way is just as important as the product you choose. A few tips to keep in mind include:

Generously apply to all exposed skin (especially the neck and ears)
Apply the sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside
Use a thick and even layer
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even water-resistant products

Tips for Reducing Sun Exposure

Lotions and sunscreens aren’t the only things you can use to improve your skin and reduce sun damage. A few ways you can further protect your skin from harmful UV rays include:

Don’t stay in the sun for long periods
Throw away sunscreen after one to two years
Wear high-SPF or tight-weave clothing
Take breaks in the shade or indoors
Wear sunglasses or wide-brimmed hats

You should also conduct regular skin checks and schedule regular appointments with your dermatologist to see if any new spots have appeared. They’ll determine what’s a normal spot and what may be cause for concern.

Make Skincare for the Elderly a Priority

It’s never too late to start a skincare routine. Finding the best lotion for older skin can feel overwhelming. Working with a dermatologist or your healthcare provider can ensure you pick the right lotion for your skin type and goals.

Dorset Place Assisted Living & Memory Care in Oklahoma City prioritizes the health and happiness of its residents. We provide senior sun care solutions, helping residents find the best products to improve their skin. Contact our office to schedule a consultation.