Proper skin care in old age

Proper skin care in old age: Complex guide

I. Changes in the skin associated with age: understanding of the basics

Age makes significant changes to the structure and functioning of the skin. Understanding these changes is critical of developing an effective care strategy adapted to the needs of mature skin.

A. Structural changes:

1. Reducing collagen and elastin: Collagen, the main structural protein, which gives the skin elasticity and elasticity, decreases with age, by about 1% per year after 20 years. Elastin, which ensures the elasticity and ability of the skin to return to the original state after stretching, also decreases and undergoes degradation. This leads to:

   • The appearance of wrinkles and thin lines, especially around the eyes, mouth and forehead.
   • Loss of elasticity and sagging of the skin, especially in the neck, chin and cheeks.
   • Increase the severity of nasolabial folds (lines of laughter).

2. Reducing the content of hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is a natural humidifier that holds water in the skin, giving it volume and moisture. With age, the level of hyaluronic acid decreases, which leads to:

   • Dryness and dehydration of the skin.
   • Increased visibility of wrinkles and thin lines.
   • Loss of natural skin radiance.

3. Slow down cellular update: The process of renewal of skin cells slows down with age. In youth, the skin cells are updated approximately every 28 days, but this process can slow down until 45-60 days in old age. This leads to:

   • The accumulation of dead cells on the surface of the skin, making it dull and rough.
   • Slowing down the healing of wounds and abrasions.
   • Strengthening pigmentation (age stains).

4. Reducing the number of melanocytes: Melanocytes are cells producing melanin, a pigment that protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation. With age, the amount of melanocytes decreases, which makes the skin more vulnerable to sunburn and damage. It also leads to:

   • The uneven distribution of the pigment, which manifests itself in the form of age -related spots (lentig).
   • Increased sensitivity to the sun.

5. Reducing the number of sebaceous and sweat glands: With age, the activity of the sebaceous and sweat glands decreases, which leads to:

   • Dry skin, especially in the cold season.
   • Reducing the natural protection of the skin from bacteria and fungi.
   • Violation of thermoregulation, which can lead to overheating or hypothermia.

6. Reducing subcutaneous fat: Subcutaneous fat plays an important role in maintaining the volume and contours of the face. With age, there is a loss of subcutaneous fat, which leads to:

   • Slowing the skin and the appearance of deep wrinkles.
   • More pronounced face bones.
   • The deepening of the sunk cheeks.

7. The thinning of the epidermis and dermis: The epidermis (the upper layer of the skin) and the dermis (the middle layer of the skin) become thinner with age, which makes the skin more thin, fragile and vulnerable to damage. This leads to:

   • Increased sensitivity to irritants and allergens.
   • Increasing the likelihood of bruises and bruises.
   • Slowed by wound healing.

B. Functional changes:

1. Violation of the barrier function of the skin: The barrier function of the skin, which protects against loss of moisture and the penetration of harmful substances, weakens with age. This leads to:

   • Increased dryness and sensitivity.
   • Increasing the risk of dermatitis and eczema.
   • Easy penetration of allergens and irritants.

2. Reducing the immune function of the skin: The immune function of the skin, which protects against infections and diseases, decreases with age. This leads to:

   • Increasing the risk of the development of skin infections.
   • Slowed by wound healing.
   • Increased sensitivity to the sun and other environmental factors.

3. Reducing microcirculation: Blood microcirculation in the skin decreases with age, which leads to:

   • Reduction of nutrition and oxygen skin support.
   • Slowed cell renewal process.
   • Dull complexion.

4. Reducing the ability to thermoregulation: The ability of the skin to thermoregulation decreases with age due to a decrease in the number of sweat glands and a decrease in microcirculation. This makes the elderly more vulnerable to overheating and hypothermia.

C. External factors affecting skin aging:

1. Ultraviolet radiation (photo starting): Long -term ultraviolet radiation (UVA and UVB) is the main factor in premature skin aging. Photo starting to:

   • Destruction of collagen and elastin.
   • The appearance of wrinkles and thin lines.
   • Age -related spots (lentigo).
   • Increasing the risk of skin cancer.

2. Smoking: Smoking accelerates the aging of the skin, as nicotine narrows blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the skin. Smoking also damages collagen and elastin, which leads to:

   • The appearance of wrinkles, especially around the mouth (purse wrinkles).
   • Dull complexion.
   • Sagger.

3. Environmental pollution: Air pollution, including dust particles, smoke and chemicals, can damage the skin and accelerate aging. Pollution leads to:

   • Oxidative stress that damages skin cells.
   • Inflammation.
   • Strengthening pigmentation.

4. Inal meals: An unbalanced diet, rich in sugar, treated products and poor antioxidants, can contribute to skin aging.

5. Insufficient sleep: The lack of sleep can lead to an increased level of cortisol (stress hormone), which damages collagen and elastin.

6. Stress: Chronic stress can also lead to an increased level of cortisol, accelerating the aging of the skin.

II. The basic principles of skin care in old age:

Skin care should be comprehensive and include the following key elements:

A. Soft cleansing:

1. Choosing a cleanser: Use soft, not containing sulfates, cleansing agents specially designed for dry and sensitive skin. Avoid aggressive soaps and gels that can deprive the skin of natural oils and aggravate dryness. Look for products marked “without soap” or “non -comic.” Examples of suitable ingredients:

   • Glycerin: moisturizes and softens the skin.
   • Ceramides: restore the skin barrier.
   • Hyaluronic acid: holds moisture.
   • Oils (for example, olive, jojoba): nourish and soften the skin.

2. Cleaning technique: Use warm, not hot water to cleanse. Apply a cleanser with soft circular motion with your fingertips or a soft cloth. Avoid rough friction that can irritate the skin.

3. Cleaning frequency: Clean your skin once or twice a day, depending on the type of skin and the level of pollution. Excessive purification can aggravate dryness.

4. Makeup removal: Before going to bed, be sure to remove the makeup using a soft makeup removal, designed for sensitive skin.

B. Deep moisture:

Moisturization is a key element of mature skin care, since with age the skin becomes more dry and dehydrated.

1. The choice of moisturizer: Choose moisturizers containing moisturizing and softening components.

   • Uslators (Humectants): They attract moisture from the air to the skin. Examples: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea, sorbitol.
   • Softening substances (Emollents): Fill the space between the skin cells, making it more smooth and soft. Examples: oils (olive, jojoba, shi), fatty acids, ceramides, lanolin.
   • Occlusive substances (OCCLUSVES): They form a barrier on the surface of the skin, preventing moisture loss. Examples: Vaseline, mineral oil, bee wax, silicones.

   Creams with a denser texture containing occlusive substances are especially useful for very dry skin.

2. Moisturizing agent: Apply moisturizer to wet skin immediately after cleansing to fix moisture. Use a sufficient amount of cream so that the skin feels moisturized, but not oily.

3. Moisturization frequency: Moisturize the skin twice a day, morning and evening, as well as during the day as necessary, especially after washing your hands.

4. Moisturization of body skin: Do not forget to moisturize the skin of the body after a shower or bath. Use lotions or creams designed for dry skin.

5. Air humidifiers: The use of a humidifier in the room, especially in winter, can help increase air humidity and prevent dry skin.

C. Protection from the Sun:

Sun protection is the most important element of skin care at any age, but is especially important for mature skin, which is more vulnerable to damage from the sun.

1. Selection of sunscreen: Use a wide range of a wide range of action (protects from UVA and UVB rays) with SPF 30 or higher. Choose sunscreen for sensitive skin, which do not contain fragrances and parabens. Physical sunscreens (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are usually tolerated by sensitive skin.

2. Sunny cream. Apply sunscreen abundantly 15-30 minutes before the sun exit. Do not forget about areas that often remain unprotected, such as ears, neck, back of the arms and lips (use lip balm with SPF).

3. Repeated application: Apply the sunscreen every two hours, as well as after swimming or intensive sweating.

4. Additional protection measures: In addition to using sunscreen, wear protective clothes, such as broad -shouldered hat and sunglasses, and try to avoid staying in the sun in peak hours (from 10:00 to 16:00).

D. Nourishing whey:

Serums are concentrated products containing a high concentration of active ingredients that can help improve the condition of the skin.

1. Serums with antioxidants: Antioxidants help protect the skin from damage to free radicals caused by environmental factors, such as the sun and pollution. Examples:

   • Vitamin C: brightens the skin, stimulates the production of collagen and protects against free radicals.
   • Vitamin E: moisturizes the skin and protects against free radicals.
   • Resveratrol: has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties.
   • Green tea: has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties.

2. Serums with peptides: Peptides are small fragments of protein that can help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, reducing the visibility of wrinkles and improving the elasticity of the skin.

3. Hyaluronic acid serums: Hyaluronic acid whey help to moisturize the skin and reduce the visibility of wrinkles.

4. Using serums: Apply serum to clean skin before applying a moisturizer. Use a few drops of serum and gently distribute it over the face and neck.

E. Special skin care around the eyes:

The skin around the eyes is very thin and sensitive, so it requires special care.

1. The choice of skin for the skin around the eyes: Use the skin cream around the eyes specially designed to solve specific problems, such as wrinkles, dark circles and swelling. Look for creams containing peptides, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid.

2. Application of skin cream around the eyes: Apply the skin for the skin around the eyes with soft pathetic movements with a ring finger so as not to stretch the skin. Apply the cream on the orbital bone, avoiding cream getting into the eyes.

3. Sun protection: Do not forget to apply sunscreen to the skin around the eyes. Use sunglasses to protect against sunlight.

F. exfoliation (exfoliation):

Excessive helps to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin, making it more smooth and radiant. However, it is important to carry out exfoliation carefully, since mature skin can be more sensitive.

1. Selecting the exfoliation method:

   • Chemical exfoliation: Use soft chemical exfoliants, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, in low concentration (5-10%). AHA helps to exfoliate the skin and stimulate collagen production.
   • Physical exfoliation: Use very soft scrubs with small particles or a soft rag for exfoliation. Avoid aggressive scrubs with large particles that can irritate the skin.

2. The frequency of exfoliation: Submit the skin once or twice a week, depending on its sensitivity.

3. Precautions: After exfoliation, be sure to apply a moisturizer and sunscreen.

G. Night care:

Night is the time when the skin is restored, so it is important to use the products that support this process.

1. Cleansing of the skin: Clean the skin of makeup and pollution.

2. Wedeous application: Apply serum with antioxidants or peptides.

3. Night cream application: Use a night cream that contains moisturizing and nutrient components, such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides. Night creams usually have a denser texture than daytime.

H. Hand and body care:

The skin of the hands and body is also subject to age -related changes, therefore, it requires special care.

1. Washing hands: Use soft hand soap so as not to dry the skin.

2. Moisturization of hands: Apply a moisturizer for hands after each wash.

3. Sun protection: Apply sunscreen in your hands before going to the sun.

4. Body care: Use moisturizing lotions or body creams after a shower or bath.

5. Body Asked: Submit the skin of the body once or twice a week using a soft scrub or buffer.

I. Food and hydration:

Healthy nutrition and sufficient water consumption play an important role in maintaining skin health.

1. Balanced nutrition: Include products rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals in your diet. Eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and lean proteins.

2. Sufficient water consumption: Drink at least 8 cups of water per day to maintain skin moisturizing from the inside.

3. Limiting sugar and processed products: Limit the consumption of sugar and processed products that can contribute to inflammation and aging of the skin.

J. Healthy lifestyle:

A healthy lifestyle, including sufficient sleep, physical activity and stress management, can also contribute to the health of the skin.

1. Sufficient sleep: Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours at night.

2. Physical activity: Regular physical exercises improve blood circulation and help deliver nutrients to the skin.

3. Stress management: Use stress management methods such as yoga, meditation or hobby to reduce cortisol levels.

III. Common skin problems in old age and ways to solve them:

A. Dry skin (xerosis):

1. Reasons: Reducing the number of sebaceous glands, violation of the barrier function of the skin, the use of aggressive cleansers, low air humidity.

2. Decision:

   • Use soft cleansing agents without sulfates.
   • Apply moisturizers immediately after a shower or bath.
   • Use air humidifiers in the room.
   • Avoid a long stay in hot water.
   • Use occlusive moisturizers, such as petroleum jelly or mineral oil for very dry skin.
   • Consider the possibility of using moisturizers containing urea or lactic acid, which help to retain moisture in the skin.

B. Age spots (lentigo):

1. Reasons: Prolonged exposure to sunlight.

2. Decision:

   • Use sunscreen daily.
   • Use clarifying products containing vitamin C, niacinamide, alpha arbutin or bed acid.
   • Consider the possibility of conducting professional procedures, such as laser removal or chemical peeling, to remove age stains.

C. wrinkles and thin lines:

1. Reasons: Reducing collagen and elastin, exposure to sunlight, smoking, genetics.

2. Decision:

   • Use sunscreen daily.
   • Use serums and creams with retinoids (for example, retinol) or peptides that stimulate collagen production.
   • Use moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid to moisturize the skin and reduce the visibility of wrinkles.
   • Consider the possibility of professional procedures, such as Botox, fillers or laser rejuvenation, to reduce wrinkles.

D. Dryblast skin:

1. Reasons: Reducing collagen and elastin, loss of subcutaneous fat.

2. Decision:

   • Use serums and creams with peptides that stimulate collagen production.
   • Consider the possibility of professional procedures, such as radio frequency lifting or ultrasound lifting, for skin tightening.
   • Perform face exercises to strengthen the muscles of the face.

E. Sensitive skin:

1. Reasons: Thinning of the skin, violation of the barrier function of the skin, the use of aggressive products.

2. Decision:

   • Use soft, hypoallergenic skin care products that do not contain fragrances, dyes and parabens.
   • Avoid aggressive cleansers, scrubs and acids.
   • Test new products on a small area of ​​the skin before use on the whole face.
   • Use sedatives containing scarlet faith, chamomile or oatmeal.

F. The itching of the skin (Prute):

1. Reasons: Dry skin, allergic reactions, skin diseases (for example, eczema, psoriasis), system diseases.

2. Decision:

   • Moisturize the skin regularly.
   • Avoid skin scratching, as this can aggravate itching and lead to infection.
   • Use antihistamines to reduce itching.
   • Contact the doctor to identify and treat the causes of itching.

G. Skin Easy:

1. Reasons: The thinning of the skin, a decrease in the amount of collagen, drugs (for example, corticosteroids).

2. Decision:

   • Be careful not to damage the skin.
   • Use soft moisturizers to maintain skin health.
   • If necessary, consult a doctor to evaluate and treatment.

IV. Professional procedures for mature skin:

In addition to home care, professional procedures can help improve the condition of mature skin.

A. Chemical peeling:

Chemical peeling uses chemical solutions to remove the upper layer of the skin, improving its texture and color.

1. Types of peeling:

   • Superficial peels: use soft acids, such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, for exfoliation of the upper layer of the skin. They help improve the skin texture, reduce pigmentation and thin lines.
   • Medicial peels: use stronger acids, such as trichloroxic acid (TCA), to penetrate into deeper layers of the skin. They help reduce wrinkles, scars from acne and deep pigmentation.
   • Deep peels: use the most powerful acids, such as phenol, to penetrate into the deepest layers of the skin. They help reduce deep wrinkles and scars, but require long -term recovery.

2. Advantages: Improving skin texture, reduction of pigmentation, reduction of wrinkles and thin lines.

3. Risks: Redness, peeling, hyperpigmentation, scarring.

B. Micodermabrazia:

Micodermabrazia uses a special apparatus for exfoliating the upper layer of the skin using microcrystals or diamond tips.

1. Advantages: Improving skin texture, reduction of pores, reducing thin lines.

2. Risks: Redness, peeling, irritation.

C. Laser rejuvenation:

Laser rejuvenation uses lasers to remove damaged skin layers, stimulating collagen production and improving the skin texture.

1. Lazer types:

   • Ablation lasers: remove the upper layer of the skin, which leads to more pronounced results, but requires prolonged recovery.
   • Non -able lasers: stimulate the production of collagen without damaging the surface of the skin, which leads to less recovery time.

2. Advantages: Reducing wrinkles, improving skin texture, reduction of pigmentation.

3. Risks: Redness, edema, hyperpigmentation, scarring.

D. Radio frequency lifting:

Radio frequency lifting uses radio frequency energy to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and pulling up the skin.

1. Advantages: Skin tightening, reduction of wrinkles.

2. Risks: Redness, swelling, burns.

E. Ultrasonic lifting:

Ultrasonic lifting uses focused ultrasound to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and pulling up the skin.

1. Advantages: Skin tightening, reduction of wrinkles.

2. Risks: Redness, swelling, pain.

F. Botox injections:

Botox injections relax the muscles of the face, reducing wrinkles caused by contraction of muscles, such as wrinkles on the forehead, interbranial wrinkles and “goose legs”.

1. Advantages: Reducing wrinkles.

2. Risks: Owl of eyebrows or eyelids, headache, pain in the injection site.

G. Filler injections:

Fillers injections are injected with hyaluronic acid or other substances under the skin to fill the wrinkles, add volume and improve the contours of the face.

1. Advantages: Filling wrinkles, increasing volume, improving facial contours.

2. Risks: Edema, bruises, redness, infection, skin necrosis.

Important! Before conducting any professional procedure, consult a qualified dermatologist or cosmetologist to discuss your individual needs and risks.

V. Recommendations for the choice of skin care products in old age:

The choice of correct skin care products in old age can be a difficult task, given the wide range of products presented on the market. Here are a few recommendations that will help you make the right choice:

A. Read the labels:

Read the labels of products carefully and pay attention to the ingredients. Avoid products containing aggressive ingredients, such as sulfates, alcohol, fragrances and dyes. Look for products containing useful ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, antioxidants and retinoids.

B. Consider your skin type:

Choose products designed for your skin type (dry, oily, combined, sensitive). If you have dry skin, look for moisturizers with a dense texture containing occlusive substances. If you have sensitive skin, choose hypoallergenic products without fragrances and dyes.

C. Pay attention to the texture:

Choose products with a texture that is pleasant to you. Some people prefer light lotions, while others prefer more dense creams.

D. Feel free to try:

Do not be afraid to try different products to find those that are best suited for your skin. You can ask for products of products in stores or buy small products to test them before buying a full -sized version.

E. Consult with a dermatologist:

If you have any questions or problems about skin care, contact a dermatologist. A dermatologist can evaluate the condition of your skin and recommend products and procedures that are best suited for you.

F. Remember SPF:

Always choose products containing SPF, or use sunscreen separately. Sun protection is the most important element of skin care at any age.

VI. Skin care myths in old age:

There are many myths about skin care in old age. Here are some of the most common myths and facts about them:

A. MIF: Wrinkles are an inevitable part of aging, and nothing can be done with it.

Fact: Although genetics plays a certain role in the aging of the skin, many factors, such as the impact of the sun, smoking and lifestyle, can speed up the aging process. Proper skin care, including sun protection, moisturizing and using active ingredients, such as retinoids and peptides, can help reduce the visibility of wrinkles.

B. MIF: Dear skin care products are always better than cheaper.

Fact: The price is not always an indicator of quality. Some expensive products may contain the same ingredients as cheaper products. It is important to read labels and choose products containing useful ingredients, regardless of their price.

C. Myth: Mature skin does not need to be exfoliated.

Fact: Excessive helps to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin, making it more smooth and radiant. However, mature skin can be more sensitive, so it is important to carry out exfoliation carefully using soft exfoliants and not abusing this procedure.

D. Myth: Sunscreen is needed only on sunny days.

Fact: Ultraviolet radiation can penetrate the clouds, so sunscreen should be used every day, even in cloudy weather.

E. MIF: Antioxidants do not need mature skin.

Fact: Antioxidants help protect the skin from damage to free radicals caused by environmental factors, such as the sun and pollution. Antioxidants especially need mature skin, as it is more vulnerable to damage to free radicals.

VII. Additional skin care tips in old age:

• Regularly inspect the skin for changes, such as new moles or spots. If you notice any suspicious changes, consult a doctor.
• Be patient. In order to see the results from using new products or skin care procedures, it may take several weeks or months.
• Do not compare your skin with the skin of other people. The skin of each person is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
• Enjoy the skin care process. Skin care is an opportunity to relax and take care of yourself.
• Take your age and be proud of your skin.

Following these recommendations, you can maintain the health and beauty of your skin at any age.