Taking good care of your skin is important. In fact,
proper skin care is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy,
youthful appearance throughout your life. But proper skin care
changes as you age, and you need to know the best skin care
regimes for your age and for some common skin problems and
conditions.
Teens and 20s
Puberty and the transition into adulthood bring about huge
changes in skin. Hair becomes thicker and oiler, as does
the complexion. Practicing proper cleansing techniques
is vital. Skin should be cleansed twice daily; washing
more frequently can trigger an over-production of oil. Maintaining
a healthy, well-balanced diet, including drinking plenty of
water between meals, can also help keep skin clear and blemish
free.
But sometimes cleansing and diet is just not enough to prevent teen
and young adult acne. ( Acne & Acne Scars section)
For acne that does not clear up with cleansing, a dermatologist
can prescribe a topical medication, or even antibiotics.
These years are also the time to establish a life-long commitment
to protecting skin from sun damage. Using sunscreen,
wearing a hat and/or clothing with UV protection and avoiding
too much sun exposure will help prevent skin cancer or premature
aging.
Skin in the 20s can start to show subtle signs of photodamage
and “social aging” – from smoking, drinking
or excessive tanning. Antioxidant creams as well as lighter
procedures, such as chemical peels can keep your skin from
premature aging.
30s and 40s
While most men have outgrown acne by their 20’s, many
women continue to suffer from acne into their adult years.
In addition, this is the time when the signs of aging can begin
to appear – pigment irregularity, fine lines and wrinkles
and loss of elasticity.
Skin in the 30s and 40s can benefit from a variety of noninvasive
procedures, including Botox, fillers like Restylane, Perlane or Juvederm, chemical
peels and noninvasive
lasers. (link to
various website pages) A consultation with a dermatologist
can determine which approach is right for you.
Adults should also adapt their skin care regimes to incorporate
cleansers and moisturizers specially designed for more mature
complexions.
50s, 60s and beyond
As skin ages, different problems emerge. Some men and
women experience rosacea, which is characterized by redness
and pimples on the face in addition to flushing in response
to certain triggers, such as caffeine, wine or stress. Rosacea
can be treated with creams, laser and avoiding specific triggers.
Mature skin definitely benefits from facial rejuvenation, although
you are more likely to avoid major interventions during this
time if you have had preventative procedures during your 30s
and 40s. Rejuvenation treatments include Botox and fillers,
as well as Intense
Pulsed Light (IPL) and ReFirme
Skin Tightening,
or even more extensive procedures, such as Active
FX and Total FX. Again, your dermatologist can recommend a rejuvenation
treatment that is best for you.
Older skin can also get dry and flaky; frequent application
of gentle, effective moisturizers is critical for keeping skin
well hydrated and less itchy. Moisturizers should be
applied at least once a day, preferably after a bath or shower
when the skin is still damp. Have
any suspicious growths examined, and if you or your family
has a history of skin cancer or excessive sun exposure, be
sure to have a thorough checkout from your dermatologist once
a year.
Following these few simple guidelines can help your skin stay
young looking and healthy, whatever your age.
Dr. Lisa Benest is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist in
Burbank, CA. She and her staff provide comprehensive
skin examinations as well as an array of non-invasive, cosmetic
procedures and offer a full line of skin care products. To
learn more about how to take care of your skin as well as the
most up-to-date treatments in skin care, schedule a Free Consultation
with our cosmetic nurse. Check out our website for a
complete list of all our treatments: www.lisabenestmd.com
Lisa Benest M.D.
1624 W. Olive #B
Burbank, CA
818-729-9149
www.lisabenestmd.com
