Protecting skin from the sun is something everyone should do from their youth on, but often the skin, although the largest organ of our body, is largely ignored by its owner. As we age, caring for the skin becomes more important as skin becomes thinner and more easily damaged.

The sun is the greatest cause of damage to the skin, and although we cannot undo the damage it has already caused, it is never too late to prevent further exposure. Try to stay out of the sun during its strongest hours, typically 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and wear a sunscreen when you are out. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Over-exposure to the sun causes many of the skin conditions we think of as age-related, such as wrinkles and age spots. The sun’s rays contribute to the loss of elastin in our skin which leads to wrinkles and sagging skin. Dark discolorations result from years of sun exposure and make the skin appear mottled.

Dryness is another problem as the natural oily secretions of our skin decrease. This is only exacerbated by low-humidity due to air conditioning or dry climates. Moisturizing is important, but be careful about using oily bath preparations as they increase the risk of slips and falls. It is better to consistently use a moisturizing cream to prevent dryness from occurring. Dry skin is more prone to injury and may heal more slowly as we get older.

Caring for skin is a life-long job, but one that reaps rewards in the form of a younger and healthier looking you.