Aging is an inevitable fact and the skin is not immune to this process. Wrinkles, spots and dry skin are unfortunately normal and widespread phenomena due to aging. This is caused by thinning of the skin, which consequently provides a weaker barrier against infection and sunlight. The lack of moisture is also due to a reduction in the number of glands that produce sweat and the natural oils that keep it hydrated. Dry skin can occur anywhere, but it usually affects the arms, hands, back, and lower legs most of the time. Fortunately, there are simple solutions to rehydrate the skin and prevent dehydration caused by aging.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Cleanse and Moisturize the Skin
Step 1. Choose a natural cleanser
Many skin cleansing products contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals (such as those used to perfume soaps) that rob it of its natural moisture, so should be avoided. Look for a cleanser made from natural plant oils. The ingredients you need to look for are glycerin, jojoba oil, coconut oil, or almond oil. In addition to cleaning the skin in a gentle way, these substances are able to provide you with the hydration you need.
You can also wash yourself with water only or choose a detergent that does not contain soap
Step 2. Wash yourself using hot water
Since too much water can dry out the skin rather than hydrate it, you should bathe or shower every other day. Also try to use hot, but not boiling water, otherwise you risk washing away its beneficial natural oils as well. Hot water dries the skin less than hot water. Also remember that showering or bathing shouldn't take more than 5-10 minutes.
Do not use bath oils in water. They could make the tub slippery and you run the risk of falling
Step 3. Wash and dry your skin gently
You should only use your hands when you wash, but if you prefer to massage your skin with a soft cloth, brush or sponge, do it gently as rubbing it aggressively can damage it as it tends to become more fragile as it gets older. When it is time to dry it, it would be best to let it air and wait a few minutes before applying the moisturizer.
If you want to use the towel, gently pat the skin rather than rubbing it
Step 4. Hydrate it with a natural ingredient
Jojoba oil, olive oil, and shea butter are ideal choices. You should avoid products that contain scented substances as they can cause an allergic reaction. According to the EWG ("Environmental Working Group"), many cosmetic products on the market contain ingredients that are potentially harmful to health. Before purchasing, search online to find out which ones are considered toxic or have been associated with allergic reactions and cancer. You should also prefer substances that help the skin retain moisture as well as smooth out wrinkles, such as:
- The ceramides;
- Glycerin;
- Hyaluronic acid;
- Lanolin;
- Linoleic, linolenic and lauric acid (which have emollient properties).
Step 5. Moisturize your skin immediately after a bath or shower
Do not wait. The purpose of the cream is to moisturize, so you will get an even better result by applying it to still damp skin. Try not to let more than 3 minutes pass.
Remember to reapply the moisturizer whenever you start to feel dry skin. You should use it at least twice a day
Part 2 of 3: Protecting Aging Skin
Step 1. Always use sunscreen
Choose one that hydrates your skin as well as protects it from the sun. The SPF ("Solar Protective Factor") should not be less than 30. The label should specify that it is broad spectrum, which means it can block both UVA and UVB rays. The amount needed for the whole body is equivalent to what can be contained in a liqueur glass. Remember to reapply it every two hours throughout the day.
- The sun's rays can cause wrinkles to appear and cause the skin to dry out and age prematurely. For this reason it is important to use a sunscreen every day.
- For added convenience you can use a spray sunscreen.
Step 2. Also use physical barriers
If you plan to spend time in the sun, you should also use physical protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and long dresses that completely cover your legs and arms. In order not to suffer from the heat and let the skin breathe, choose loose clothing made with natural fibers (such as cotton, linen and silk).
You should also wear glasses with lenses that can block UVA and UVB rays. In this case the goal is not to keep the skin hydrated, but to protect the eyes from the harmful rays of the sun
Step 3. Avoid direct sun and tanning beds
If you are a tan addict, you better change your habits. The US Department of Health and the World Health Organization have declared that the ultraviolet rays emitted by the sun and tanning lamps are potential carcinogens, which means they can cause the cancer. The same rays also dry the skin, make it age prematurely and worsen the situation of wrinkles.
You should limit the time you spend in the sun, especially by trying not to stay outdoors between 10am and 3pm, even on cloudy days
Step 4. Dry skin needs even more care during the winter
Since the air is naturally drier in cold weather, the problem of dehydrated skin becomes even more widespread. It is very important to protect the body from the elements by wearing gloves, a scarf and a hat. You should also avoid sitting too close to a fire or other heat source.
Using a humidifier can be beneficial. Its function is to maintain the correct level of humidity in the air, so it can help you prevent the skin from becoming dry
Step 5. Go to the doctor
As you age, it is normal for your skin to dry out more easily, but if you don't notice any improvement within 2-3 weeks, you should see your doctor or dermatologist. The cause could be a disease, for example:
- An eczema;
- An atopic dermatitis;
- A mycosis (such as athlete's foot)
- A seborrheic dermatitis;
- A thyroid disorder
- Psoriasis;
- Sjögren's syndrome.
Part 3 of 3: Adopt a Healthier Lifestyle to Prevent Dry Skin
Step 1. Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Studies have shown that as people age, they tend to drink less water, while in reality they need to drink even more as they age. You need to drink regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty, especially if you pinch your skin and notice that it stays tight for several seconds (this is a sign that your body is not sufficiently hydrated).
If you are a woman you should drink about 2.2 liters of water a day, which is roughly equivalent to 9 x 250ml glasses. If you are a man, you should drink 3 liters, which corresponds to 12 glasses of 250 ml. Also remember that in the warmer months or when you exercise, your water requirement increases further
Step 2. Stop smoking
Because of smoking, the skin can age faster. The damage exceeds that caused by the sun and tanning lamps. Studies carried out to understand the relationship between smoking and premature skin aging show that smoking causes a decrease in skin elasticity, contributes to the appearance of wrinkles and can cause the formation of spots.
Ask your doctor for help if you can't stop smoking on your own. There are several effective solutions, including medications, substitution treatments, smoke-free centers, and self-help groups
Step 3. Get the antioxidants your body needs
They are substances that can improve skin health, so they can minimize the signs of aging. They are contained in some anti-aging creams, but researchers say the best choice is to take them through your diet. There are also food supplements based on antioxidants (if you decide to use them, respect the directions for use on the package). Through your diet, you should try to get vitamins A, C, D, E, beta carotene and polyphenols. Foods that contain a high amount of these antioxidants include:
- Tomatoes;
- Strawberries;
- Citrus fruits (such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes)
- Melons;
- Apricots;
- Broccoli;
- Sweet potatoes;
- Spinach.
Step 4. Get more Omega-3 fatty acids
A diet rich in Omega-3 helps you protect your skin as you age because these essential fatty acids help it get the hydration it needs and preserve collagen. Fish (such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna) and seafood are excellent sources of Omega-3s. The plants that contain it in greater quantities include:
- Seeds, such as flax, chia, pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame seeds
- Oils, such as hemp or flaxseed oil
- Green leafy vegetables
- Avocado;
- Walnuts.
