Best Skincare Practices for Ageing Skin: A Guide for Patients and Carers

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As individuals age, their skin undergoes significant changes that can affect its health and appearance. For UK primary care healthcare providers, offering guidance on best skincare practices for ageing skin is crucial to help patients and carers maintain skin integrity and overall well-being.

Understanding Ageing Skin

Ageing skin experiences several physiological changes:

Thinning Epidermis: The outer skin layer becomes thinner, making it more susceptible to injuries.
Reduced Collagen Production: A decrease in collagen leads to diminished elasticity and the formation of wrinkles.
Decreased Sebum Production: Less oil production results in drier skin, increasing the risk of cracks and irritation.
Slower Cell Turnover: The skin’s ability to repair and regenerate slows down, prolonging healing times.

Best Skincare Practices for Ageing Skin

Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to remove impurities without stripping natural oils. Avoid harsh soaps that can exacerbate dryness.
Regular Moisturising: Apply moisturisers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to maintain hydration. Regular application helps prevent dryness and maintains skin suppleness.
Sun Protection: Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is crucial. Sun protection helps prevent photoaging and reduces the risk of skin cancers.
Incorporate Antioxidants: Products with vitamin C can brighten the skin and combat oxidative stress. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, protecting the skin from environmental damage.
Introduce Retinoids: Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, can improve skin texture and reduce fine lines. Start with lower concentrations to minimise potential irritation.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Encourage a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support skin health from within.
Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is essential for maintaining skin hydration and elasticity.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Both can accelerate skin ageing and impair the skin’s natural healing processes.
Regular Skin Examinations: Encourage routine checks for new or changing lesions to facilitate early detection of skin cancers.

Guidance for Carers

Carers play a vital role in supporting the skincare routines of older adults:

Assist with Daily Skincare: Help apply moisturisers and sunscreens, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Monitor Skin Changes: Keep an eye out for signs of pressure ulcers, infections, or unusual lesions.
Encourage Gentle Handling: Use soft towels and gentle patting motions to dry the skin, reducing the risk of tears.
Promote Comfortable Environments: Maintain optimal humidity levels to prevent skin dryness and provide comfortable clothing that doesn’t irritate the skin.

Professional Development Opportunity

For healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of dermatological conditions in older adults, Practitioner Development UK (PDUK) offers an excellent course titled “Dermatological Conditions in the Older Adult.” This course aims to develop dermatology assessment skills, understand the changing physiology of elderly skin, and apply dermatological considerations when caring for older adults. It also focuses on increasing knowledge of differential diagnoses in elderly dermatology, building confidence in managing chronic dermatological conditions, improving knowledge of treatments, and making appropriate referrals.

Conclusion

Implementing tailored skincare practices is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of ageing skin. Healthcare providers, patients, and carers must collaborate to establish routines that address the unique needs of older adults. Continuous education and awareness are key to adapting to the evolving requirements of ageing skin, ensuring comfort and reducing the risk of dermatological issues.

References

National Institute on Aging (2025) ‘Skin care and aging’. Available at: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/skin-care/skin-care-and-aging

Harvard Health Publishing (2025) ‘Skin care for aging skin: Minimizing age spots, wrinkles, and undereye bags’. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/skin-care-for-aging-skin-minimizing-age-spots-wrinkles-and-undereye-bags