Skincare becomes more important as we age, especially for women over 50. Our skin changes with time and needs extra care to stay healthy and glowing. Dermatologists, who are skin experts, have some tried-and-true tips that can help women in this age group keep their skin looking its best.
I’ve gathered 15 of the best skin care tips dermatologists recommend for women over 50. These tips cover everything from daily cleansing to protecting your skin from the sun.
Use a gentle cleanser
Choose a mild, soap-free cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Wash your face twice a day, in the morning and before bed. Avoid hot water, which can dry out your skin. Instead, use lukewarm water to keep your skin hydrated. Pat your face dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, which can irritate your skin.
Apply sunscreen daily
Protect your skin from sun damage using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily. Apply it to your face, neck, and any exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours if you’re outside for a long time. This helps prevent wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer.
Moisturize regularly
Use a rich, creamy moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Apply it right after cleansing when your skin is still damp to lock in moisture. Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which help your skin hold onto water. Don’t forget to also moisturize your neck and chest.
Add retinoids to your routine
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that can help reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture. Start with an over-the-counter retinol product and use it a few times a week at night. If your skin tolerates it well, you can slowly increase how often you use it. Always apply sunscreen during the day when using retinoids.
Exfoliate gently
Remove dead skin cells with a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week. This can help your skin look brighter and allow your other skin care products to work better. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can damage your skin. Choose a chemical exfoliant with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) for best results.
Eat a healthy diet
What you eat affects how your skin looks. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that help keep your skin healthy. Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Limit sugar and processed foods, which can cause inflammation and damage your skin.
Get enough sleep
Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to give your skin time to repair and renew itself. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction on your skin while you sleep. This can help prevent wrinkles and keep your skin smooth. Try to sleep on your back to avoid sleep lines on your face.
Manage stress
Stress can make skin problems worse and speed up aging. Find ways to relax and manage stress, like exercise, meditation, or hobbies you enjoy. Taking care of your mental health can help your skin look better too. Try to set aside some time each day for activities that help you unwind and feel calm.
Be gentle around your eyes
The skin around your eyes is thin and delicate. Use a special eye cream to keep this area hydrated and reduce puffiness. Apply eye cream with your ring finger, which has the lightest touch. Gently pat the cream around your eyes, don’t rub or pull. This can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles.
Don’t forget your hands and neck
Your hands and neck can show signs of aging too. Apply sunscreen and moisturizer to these areas daily. Use hand cream after washing your hands to keep them soft. At night, apply your face products to your neck and chest too. This helps keep these areas looking as young as your face.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. You can also eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges. Staying hydrated helps your skin look plump and healthy, and can reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Use antioxidants
Add antioxidant-rich products to your skincare routine. Look for serums or moisturizers with vitamin C, vitamin E, or green tea. These ingredients help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Apply antioxidants in the morning under your sunscreen for extra protection against sun damage and pollution.
Consider facial oils
Facial oils can be great for dry, mature skin. They help lock in moisture and can make your skin look dewy and youthful. Choose oils like argan, rosehip, or jojoba. Apply a few drops after your moisturizer at night. You can also mix a drop or two with your foundation for a glowing look.
Don’t smoke
If you smoke, try to quit. Smoking damages your skin and speeds up aging. It causes wrinkles, dull skin, and uneven skin tone. Quitting smoking can help your skin look healthier and younger. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about options that might work for you.
See a dermatologist regularly
Visit a dermatologist at least once a year for a skin check. They can catch any skin problems early and give you personalized advice. A dermatologist can also recommend treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy if you’re interested. Regular check-ups help keep your skin healthy and looking its best.
12 Surprising Things Medicare Won’t Cover
12 Surprising Things Medicare Won’t Cover
19 Items in Your Medicine Cabinet You Should Throw Out Now
19 Items in Your Medicine Cabinet You Should Throw Out Now
Which 15 Foods Can Alter Your Sense of Taste?
