Taking good care of your skin is important. In fact, proper skin care is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy, youthful appearance throughout your life. But proper skin care changes as you age, and you need to know the best skin care regimes for your age and for some common skin problems and conditions.
Teens and 20s
Puberty and the transition into adulthood bring about huge changes in skin. Hair becomes thicker and oiler, as does the complexion. Practicing proper cleansing techniques is vital. Skin should be cleansed twice daily; washing more frequently can trigger an over-production of oil. Maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet, including drinking plenty of water between meals, can also help keep skin clear and blemish free.
But sometimes cleansing and diet is just not enough to prevent teen and young adult acne. For acne that does not clear up with cleansing, a dermatologist can prescribe a topical medication, or even antibiotics.
These years are also the time to establish a life-long commitment to protecting skin from sun damage. Using sunscreen, wearing a hat and/or clothing with UV protection and avoiding too much sun exposure will help prevent skin cancer or premature aging.
Skin in the 20s can start to show subtle signs of photodamage and “social aging” – from smoking, drinking or excessive tanning. Antioxidant creams as well as lighter procedures, such as chemical peels can keep your skin from premature aging.
30s and 40s
While most men have outgrown acne by their 20s, many women continue to suffer from acne into their adult years. In addition, this is the time when the signs of aging can begin to appear – pigment irregularity, fine lines and wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
Skin in the 30s and 40s can benefit from a variety of noninvasive procedures, including Botox, fillers like Restylane, Perlane or Juvederm, chemical peels and noninvasive lasers. A consultation with a dermatologist can determine which approach is right for you.
Adults should also adapt their skin care regimes to incorporate cleansers and moisturizers specially designed for more mature complexions.
50s, 60s and Beyond
As skin ages, different problems emerge. Some men and women experience rosacea, which is characterized by redness and pimples on the face in addition to flushing in response to certain triggers, such as caffeine, wine or stress. Rosacea can be treated with creams, laser and avoiding specific triggers.
Mature skin definitely benefits from facial rejuvenation, although you are more likely to avoid major interventions during this time if you have had preventative procedures during your 30s and 40s. Rejuvenation treatments include Botox and fillers, as well as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and ReFirme Skin Tightening, or even more extensive procedures, such as Active FX and Total FX. Again, your dermatologist can recommend a rejuvenation treatment that is best for you.
Older skin can also get dry and flaky; frequent application of gentle, effective moisturizers is critical for keeping skin well hydrated and less itchy. Moisturizer should be applied at least once a day, preferably after a bath or shower when the skin is still damp. Have any suspicious growths examined, and if you or your family has a history of skin cancer or excessive sun exposure, be sure to have a thorough checkout from your dermatologist once a year.
Following these few simple guidelines can help your skin stay young looking and healthy, whatever your age.
Dr. Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in Burbank, CA. She and her staff provide comprehensive skin examinations as well as an array of non-invasive, cosmetic procedures and offer a full line of skin care products. To learn more about how to take care of your skin as well as the most up-to-date treatments in skin care, schedule a Free Consultation with our cosmetic nurse. Check out our website for a complete list of all our treatments: http://www.lisabenestmd.com/
Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive #B
Burbank, CA
818-729-9149
http://www.lisabenestmd.com/
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