Skin Care for Middle Age

It is possible to have vibrant skin, no matter what age you are. We notice the aging process on our skin around age 40. Proper skin care techniques can help keep you looking younger and more radiant well beyond middle age. It is true, there are some factors that we cannot control, but practicing healthy habits can go a long way.

As we age, our skin cells become damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet rays and this can cause premature aging. Here are some steps you can take to postpone the aging of your skin, and even reverse it.

  • Use gentle skin care products: For healthier-looking skin, avoid alcohol-based, deodorant soaps. Instead, consider using mild, unscented products year-round.
  • Use an AHA or retinoid product: Products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or retinoids can make your skin look younger. If you want to reduce the signs of aging, ask your dermatologist if a product that contains a retinoid, such as tretinoin, may be right for you. Also consider using products with antioxidants, as these may help repair and prevent further skin damage.
  • Be gentle with acne-prone skin: If you struggle with acne as an adult, use – and overuse – of anti-acne cleansers and products may irritate your skin, cause dryness and increase the appearance of wrinkles. Wash gently with mild cleanser, as scrubbing can further irritate the skin.
  • Moisturize: Oil production in the skin diminishes in our 40s, so it is important to moisturize your skin regularly. Moist skin looks and feels more radiant and healthy. The best time to moisturize is right after taking a bath or shower.
  • Protect your skin from the sun: Research has shown that ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun accelerate skin aging. You must make sun protection a critical part of your anti-aging skin care plan. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on your face, neck and body every day. For additional protection, seek shade and wear sun-protective clothing whenever possible.
  • Keep your hands protected: Hands are often overlooked when we apply sunscreen. Remember to apply sunscreen to your hands to protect them from premature aging. Consider applying a glycolic acid or antioxidant product to your hands to help repair sun damage.
  • Do not smoke: Tobacco smoke contains toxins that can lead to “smoker’s” face – a term used by doctors to describe the dull and dry complexion, loss of skin firmness, premature lines and wrinkles, especially around the mouth, and leathery-looking skin that smokers often have.

Resource: www.aad.org