Aging can bring about a number of physical changes, including skin changes. Here are five surprising skin-related health challenges associated with aging:
1. Dry Skin: As we age, our skin produces less oil, which can lead to dryness and itchiness.
2. Wrinkles: The natural aging process causes our skin to lose elasticity, which often leads to wrinkles.
3. Thinning Skin: The natural aging process also breaks down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, causing it to become thinner over time. As a result, you may notice that your skin becomes much more transparent (and embarrassing). It can even become dry and break, leading to bruising or tearing.
4. Sagging Skin: One of the most visible signs of aging is when skin begins to sag (particularly in your face). Over time, gravity will start to weigh down your skin, causing wrinkles and sagging. The process can be sped up by sun exposure, smoking, and even limited sun exposure.
5. Sun Damage: We all know that spending too much time in the sun without protection is bad for your skin and your health, yet people over 50 tend to spend more time outdoors than any other age group.
Here Are some things you can do to delay skin aging:
-Use a moisturizer every day, even if you have oily skin
-Apply sunscreen every day, even if it’s cloudy
-Avoid smoking
-Limit your sun exposure, and when you are outside make sure to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
-See a dermatologist for regular skin checks.
If you are experiencing any of these skin-related health challenges, please consult with your doctor. There are a number of treatments available that can help improve your skin health and appearance.