Taking care of your skin is about much more than looking good. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it plays an important role in temperature regulation, while also protecting against external invaders, such as bacteria and chemicals. Because the skin changes with age, your skin care routine will look different throughout the phases of your life. Here’s a brief look at how skin care needs change over time.
Babying Baby Skin
When it comes to babies, less is more. Because babies’ skin is extremely absorbent and can be sensitive, you’ll want to use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products at every step. For example, petroleum jelly can help lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier, which may aid in preventing diaper rash and treating cradle cap.
Children’s Skincare
Before hitting puberty, most children don’t need separate skin care for their faces. A regular bath to wash away dirt and bacteria is all they need. The American Academy of Dermatology Association notes that these baths can be given daily if desired, but once or twice a week should be the minimum. Give your child an extra dip after a particularly dirty or highly active outing, and also after swimming.
Skin Tips for Teens
The pre-teen and teenage years tend to be when acne emerges, which is usually a result of the hormone changes that develop from puberty. Whether or not your child has acne, once they hit puberty they should begin regularly washing their face to remove excess oils and skin cells that can block pores. Encourage them to use a gentle cleanser each morning and night.
In the meantime, they’ll want to avoid picking at acne or using aggressive products, as this could cause further irritation. For persistent blemishes or breakouts, over-the-counter products may be useful, but consult with a dermatologist for a more targeted treatment approach.
Adult Skin Needs
As you age, your skin undergoes changes that may call for different care tactics. For instance, dry skin commonly develops with age, since skin produces less lubricating sebum over time. Applying a lightweight moisturizer each morning and night can help your skin retain its suppleness. Increasing amounts of dead skin cells can create dullness and may even lead to clogged pores, but utilizing a gentle exfoliating product two to three times a week can be helpful.
As you began to do in your teens, continue washing your face every evening and night. If you have any cosmetic concerns, such as dark spots or fine lines, a specialized aesthetic treatment may also help address a specific issue.
Sun Protection at Every Age
While skin care routines may vary throughout your life, there’s one constant: year-round sun protection. Start safe sun practices early in childhood and maintain them for family members of all ages.
Children under the age of six months should be kept out of the sun altogether. Thereafter, apply a water-resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before going outside. Remember to reapply every two hours, and after sweating or swimming.
No matter your age or your skin concerns, our specialists can help you find the right solutions to care for your skin at every age. To schedule a visit, call (404) 355-5484, or request an appointment online.
