As you age, your skin changes. It loses fat, gets leaner, and stops appearing as smooth and plump as it previously did. It may take longer for bumps, cuts, or scratches to heal. Years of sunbathing or prolonged exposure to the sun can cause wrinkles, dryness, age spots, and even cancer. However, you can take steps to safeguard your skin and improve its texture and appearance.

Itching and Dry Skin

Many elderly persons get dry skin patches, frequently on their lower arms, elbows, and lower legs. Patches of dry skin feel scratchy and scaly.

Some medications cause skin itching. Scratching might result in bleeding and infection since older people's skin is weaker. If your skin is particularly dry and irritating, speak with a dermatologist by searching for the best skin doctor in Delhi near me.

Bruises

In comparison to younger people, older folks may bruise more easily. These bruises may take longer to heal. Bruising can also be brought on by certain medications or diseases. If you notice bruises and don't know how you got them, especially on areas of your body that are typically covered by clothing, consult your doctor.

Wrinkles

The skin starts to wrinkle after some time. Skin can become less elastic due to environmental factors, including sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. The skin may sag and wrinkle due to gravity. Smoking is one practice that can cause skin wrinkles.

If you are concerned about wrinkles, consult a dermatologist—a doctor who specialises in treating skin issues—or your primary care physician.

Age spots 

Often known as "liver spots," are dark, flat lesions that are frequently brought on by prolonged sun exposure. They appear more frequently on the face, hands, arms, back, and feet and are larger than freckles. More age spots may be avoided by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that shields against UVA and UVB rays.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a fairly prevalent form of the disease. The sun is the primary contributor to skin cancer. Skin cancer can also be brought on by tanning beds and sunlamps. Skin cancer can affect everyone, regardless of skin tone.

Maintain Skin Health

A little sun is excellent for you, but take precautions to protect your skin's health:

Limit your time in the sun 

While it's fine to go outside during the day, try to stay out of it while the sun is at its brightest. Do not be deceived by the clouds. Clouds are not a barrier to the sun's rays. Be cautious when swimming in a pool, lake, or ocean because you can also get sunburned while submerged in water.

Use sunscreen

Look for one with an SPF (sun protection factor) rating of 15 or greater. The greatest sunscreens are those that say "wide spectrum" on the label. 15 to 30 minutes before you plan to go outside, apply the sunscreen. Applying sunscreen again should happen at least every two hours. If you are swimming, working up a sweat, or rubbing your skin with a towel, you should apply sunscreen more frequently.

Put on protective clothes

Such as a wide-brimmed hat that will protect your head, neck, ears, and eyes. Look for sunglasses that completely or nearly completely block the sun's rays. Wear long pants or a long skirt if you must spend time in the sun, along with loose, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts.

With ageing, your skin may change. But keep in mind that you can provide assistance. Regularly check your skin. Consult the best skin doctor in Delhi if you notice any changes that concern you.