As a nurse, you are often the first person that patients see when they have concerns about changes in their skin. You may be asked about how to prevent or treat ageing skin or how to care for skin that has already begun to show signs of ageing causing your patients some worry.
Here are some tips that you can share with your patients:
- Wear sunscreen every day. Sunscreen is one of the most important things you can do to protect skin from ageing. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin’s DNA, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of ageing. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin daily, even on cloudy days.
- Avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds emit UV radiation, just like the sun. Avoid using tanning beds altogether to protect skin from premature ageing.
- Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help to keep the skin looking its best. Steer clear of ultra-processed packaged foods and high-sugar drinks. Healthy, natural, single-ingredient foods contain antioxidants that can help to protect skin from damage.
- Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated is vital for overall health and can help keep skin looking its best. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, throughout the day.
- Exfoliate regularly. Exfoliating the skin helps to remove dead skin cells and reveal healthier skin underneath. Exfoliate at least once a week to keep skin looking fresh.
- Use a moisturizer. Moisturizing the skin helps to keep it hydrated and prevent dryness. Choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer, meaning it will not clog skin pores.
- Get enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and can help keep skin looking its best. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
- Manage stress. Stress can take a toll on the skin’s condition, so finding ways to manage stress is vital. Exercise, relaxation techniques, and time in nature are great ways to manage stress.
By sharing these tips, you can help your patients take a positive step to look after their skin and slow the ageing process, which will also help to boost their self-confidence and feel good about themselves.
You can learn more about skin changes in older adults in our main article and our recommended training courses for healthcare providers managing patients’ skin conditions in a primary care setting offered by PDUK.
Extra support for older patients
In addition to the above tips, you can also share with your patients some of the following information about ageing skin:
- Ageing skin is a natural part of life. Everyone’s skin will eventually show signs of ageing, but some things can be done to slow the process and keep the skin looking its best.
- The signs of ageing skin can vary from person to person. Some people may experience more wrinkles and sagging than others. The amount of sun exposure people have had over their lifetime, genetics, and overall health can all affect how their skin ages.
Several skincare products and treatments are available over the counter to help improve the appearance of ageing skin. These products are specifically designed for older adults and can help to reduce wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of ageing.
If your patients are concerned about their ageing skin, you can encourage them to talk to a dermatologist. They can help to develop a skincare plan that is right for their needs.