It's no secret that age can bring great changes to your skin, from the emergence of fine lines and wrinkles to a loss of elasticity, brightness, and suppleness. A dermatologist can help you find solutions that restore and protect your skin, but there are also some steps you can take to properly care for skin as it ages. Three of these steps are discussed below.

A Brief Skin Care Guide for People Over 50

1. Wear Sunscreen

Prolonged sun exposure can easily damage the skin and speed the effects of aging. If you plan to be outdoors for extended periods, apply a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply it every two hours thereafter. And don't just put sunscreen on your face. Apply it to all exposed areas of skin, including the ears, neck, and hands, for more comprehensive protection.

2. Hydrate

Proper hydration improves elasticity and brightens the skin. Be sure to hydrate from the inside out by drinking plenty of water; aim for eight glasses a day. Also, use moisturizing soaps and moisturizing face and body creams; your dermatologist can recommend the best products for your particular type of skin. If dry skin is a frequent issue, consider investing in a humidifier, as humidifiers put more moisture into the air and help keep the skin hydrated.

3. Quit Smoking

Smoking has been shown to reduce skin elasticity and accelerate wrinkles, sags, and other signs of premature aging. Smokers are at a particular risk of fine lines around the mouth and eyes. The good news is that quitting smoking will help your skin start to heal, as collagen, elastin, and other crucial building blocks of healthy skin begin to renew themselves. Work with your primary care doctor to develop a quit plan, and consult your dermatologist for specific treatments to target any effects of smoking on your skin.

If you're looking for a dermatologist in the Monroe, LA, area, Affinity Health Group can help. Since 2007, they have been providing comprehensive medical care. Their staff includes dermatologists, family doctors, physical therapists, and behavioral health specialists. Call (318) 807-4900 to schedule an appointment or visit them online for more information about their dermatology services.