Summer Skin Care Tips for Seniors

Elder Care in Dallas: While skin protection is important at every age, senior citizens can be particularly vulnerable during the hottest months of the year. Read more.

While skin protection is important at every age, senior citizens can be particularly vulnerable during the hottest months of the year. Summer’s long spells of sunshine and cool sparkling pools call our names, luring us to adventure the great outdoors. Before heading out, there are easy steps you can take to protect your skin and ward off the dangers summer can bring. Below are tips for shielding yourself from skin damage and dehydration that can lead to health issues. Now you don’t have to wonder what you’re going to do to cure yourself from the summertime blues!

Never Leave the House Without a Good SPF

It is important to moisturize with a sun protectant. Apply a liberal amount of a broad-spectrum SPF of 15 or higher to all exposed skin areas every two hours when outdoors. For those with sensitive skin, use a facial SPF for your face and neck to avoid irritation. Older skin is particularly sensitive to dryness, applying moisturizer with SPF prevents water from escaping skin layers and protects against ultraviolet radiation. Applying every two hours may seem excessive; however, it is necessary to lower your risk of developing skin cancer and helping your skin look younger, longer.

Shade Yourself

Shade yourself with a hat, sunglasses and or umbrella when possible. This should be used in conjunction with your SPF. A hat can not only help protect the top of your head, face and neck but some say that blocking the top of your head from direct sun rays can also help those who get headaches in the sun. If a hat bothers you or feels hot on your head, you may want to opt for an umbrella instead.

Keep Hydrated

Dehydration increases with age and can pose a real danger during the dog days of summer. Drinking water when outdoors helps maintain critical moisture balance of the body and skin and assists in detoxification. If you drink caffeinated beverages, double your water intake. Some medications can also contribute to dehydration so be sure to keep sipping in the sun.

Wear Insect Repellent

Mosquito and other insect bites are not only annoying, scratching the skin can cause irritation, bleeding and scars. There is also the risk of transmission of diseases so it’s important to apply repellent frequently when outdoors. Clothing that covers your arms and legs makes it more difficult for those obnoxious biters to get to your skin.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring in-home elder care in Dallas, please contact the caring staff at Custom Home Care today. Home Care in the Dallas / Fort Worth Metroplex. For information or to schedule a free assessment call us today at (972) 702-7988.