We know that as we age there are lots of changes that occur in our bodies. It makes sense that the largest organ in our bodies, our skin, would be affected as we grow older. And it is about more than just wrinkles. With age, our skin thins out, loses fat, and does not look as “full” as it used to. As the skin thins out, it is easier to see bones and blood vessels underneath the surface. Injuries take longer to heal. Exposure to sun over a long period of time can lead to wrinkles, dryness, age spots, and even cancer.

The National Instutes of Health (NIH) offers great information about what happens to our skin and what we can do about it. For instance, dry and itchy skin can be treated with moisturizers; even a humidifier in the room can help. It also helps to take fewer baths/showers, using warm water instead of hot, and bathing with mild soaps.

Another condition is more frequent bruising that may take longer to fade. If bruises appear and you do not know how you got them–especially if they are in areas that are usually covered by clothes–consult a doctor to make sure it is nothing more serious.

There are many factors that cause skin to wrinkle: gravity, smoking, exposure to too much sun, etc. There are many products that claim to reduce the “appearance” of wrinkles, but most are not really effective. The only way to treat wrinkles requires a trip to a dermatologist who specializes in medical procedures and injections; these can be quite costly and may have only limited impact.

Age spots and skin tags are unsightly and show up more and more in the elderly. To prevent the appearance of more age spots, use appropriate sunblock and protective clothing. Skin tags are growths that rise above the surface of the skin; they are harmless, but if they are bothersome or in an area that causes concern of discomfort, they can be removed by a professional.

Finally, skin cancer is quite common as well. I blogged about this in 2020 and also last month. I am a skin cancer survivor several times over. Know the signs of skin cancer: Assymetry of a growth, Borders of the growth that are irregular, Color changes or more than one color, Diameter greater than that of a pencil eraser, and Evolving (meaning that the size, color, shape, or symptoms are changing). Check yourself regularly (once/month) and have regular checks with a dermatologist. Caught early, many skin cancers can be quickly and efficiently treated.

There will be changes in our skin as we age. Even so, we can still take care of this organ so that it will take care of us. Use sunscreen, avoid tanning, wear protective clothing (hats, coverups), and limit sun exposure. We only have one set of skin, so make sure it lasts! After all, we’ve all got skin in the game.