With age, skin becomes thinner, drier and more sensitive, making it more vulnerable to sunburn, irritation and other seasonal skin concerns.
Caregivers play a vital role in helping older loved ones protect and care for their skin in the sunny summer months. With age, skin becomes thinner, drier and more sensitive, making it more vulnerable to sunburn, irritation and other seasonal skin concerns. Fortunately, with the right approach, caregivers can help their loved ones stay comfortable and healthy through the warmest months of the year.
Understand How Aging Affects the Skin
Older adults often experience reduced oil production in their skin, which leads to dryness and itching. At the same time, years of sun exposure can leave their skin more prone to bruising, tearing and even skin cancer. Conditions like eczema, rosacea and fungal infections can also become more common and harder to manage in the heat.
Dehydration can also affect skin elasticity and healing. These changes mean that even a small rash or sore can become a bigger issue if not noticed and treated promptly.
Sun Protection Is Essential
One of the most important steps caregivers can take is ensuring their loved one uses daily sun protection. Even short periods of exposure can result in sun damage. UV rays are at their strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., so extra care should be taken during this window.
Make sure they apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all exposed skin, including the face, neck and tops of hands. Look for formulas labeled “broad-spectrum” for protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
If your loved one will be outdoors for an extended time, reapply sunscreen every two hours. If they are swimming, reapply every hour.
Your loved one should dress for sun protection by choosing light-colored, breathable long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
Keep Skin Clean and Moisturized
In summer, sweat, sunscreen and heat can clog pores and irritate dry skin. A gentle skincare routine can help avoid these issues. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to avoid further drying out the skin
- Moisturize daily, especially after bathing
- Encourage daily showers or gentle sponge baths, especially after sweating. Make the sure the water temperature isn’t too hot, as this will dry out their skin
Know the Signs of Common Summer Skin Issues
Being alert to changes can prevent small problems from becoming serious:
- Heat rash appears as tiny red bumps and may feel itchy or prickly.
- Dry, flaky patches may signal eczema or general dehydration.
- Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot or ringworm thrive in warm, moist areas. Look for redness, scaling or a musty odor, especially in skin folds.
When to Call a Doctor
Not all skin changes are harmless. Caregivers should consult a healthcare provider if they notice:
- Sores that don’t heal
- New or changing moles or spots
- Signs of infection, such as increased redness and swelling
- Excessive itching or pain