60 or older? These skincare tips are for you
Looking for the best skincare for aging skin? Pamper yourself at home with these tips for healthy and radiant skin
Just like your diet or fashion choices might have changed over the years, so has your skin. “As you age, your skin becomes naturally thinner and dulls in tone,” says Jovan Adams, DO, a family medicine doctor at Geisinger 65 Forward. “But with the right skincare, you can bring back vibrance to your skin.”
First, find the right face wash
The best skincare for aging skin starts with the right cleanser. When it comes to washing your face, use a gentle cleanser no more than twice a day. Washing your face once in the morning and once at night will help keep your pores clear without stripping your skin’s natural oil.
“You’ll want to find a cleanser that is best for your skin type,” says Dr. Adams. “If you have skin that feels tight, it’s dry. If your skin is oily, you’ll notice your cheeks, forehead and nose are shiny. If you have combination skin, only your forehead and nose will show shine.”
It’s important to avoid using a face wash that will further dry out dry skin or over moisturize oily skin. If you’re not sure what your skin type is, or what face wash might be best for you, you can ask your doctor or a dermatologist.
When washing your face, use warm — not hot — water. Hot water will strip your skin’s natural oil, increasing the dryness of your skin. Pat your face (don’t wipe) with a clean towel, leaving some water on your skin. This will help hydrate your skin when you apply your moisturizer, cream or toner.
If you use a toner, use it before your moisturizer. “Toners help remove any leftover dirt or makeup that face wash missed,” says Dr. Adams. “They can also restore your skin’s pH level.”
Creams, serums and moisturizers for aging skin
Using a moisturizer made for your skin type helps improve your skin tone and overall appearance. “After you cleanse your face, apply your moisturizer with clean hands. This will help keep your skin from drying out after washing,” says Dr. Adams.
You can also incorporate creams and serums into your routine for specific results. “Eye creams can help reduce dark circles, puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes, for example,” says Dr. Adams. Apply your eye cream after you’ve finished with your moisturizer.
Vitamins C or E are also great serums to work into your routine. Both help build collagen, which can help your skin look younger. It’s best to apply serums after your moisturizer, or by mixing them with your moisturizer and applying both together.
Always use SPF
Applying SPF to your skin daily helps protect it from sun damage. “No matter your age, protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun is so important,” says Dr. Adams. “You should apply at least SPF 30 to your skin after you use moisturizer but before you apply any makeup, even if it’s cloudy outside.”
While using SPF 30 can help protect your skin throughout the day, reapplying is crucial if you sweat, swim or spend hours outdoors. Getting a sunburn increases your risk of developing skin cancer.
“Remember — your skin is your body’s largest organ. And no matter your age, taking care of your skin is an important step in your overall health,” says Dr. Adams.
Next steps:
Meet Jovan Adams, DOLearn about Geisinger 65 Forward
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