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Tips for Treating Dry Skin: as We Age

Jan 28, 2018 ● By Leta Vaughan

As we age, our oil glands produce less oil, causing our skin to become drier, which can lead to wrinkles and sagging. Other factors, including genetics, diet, lifestyle, sun exposure and smoking can affect how our skin changes as we age. By avoiding excessive sun and keeping skin moist and hydrated, we can help to preserve the functioning of oil glands over time.

          With more months of low humidity winter air ahead of us, we can take steps every day to lessen and treat dry skin, including avoiding long hot water baths and showers; applying lotion while our skin is still damp; and using glycerin-based soap and a lanolin-based lotion or oil to hold in moisture. Avoiding dehydrating foods and beverages such as alcohol, caffeinated drinks and spicy dishes also helps reduce dryness. Drinking as much water as possible contributes to keeping skin hydrated. Also consider installing a room humidifier, which will add moisture to the air and help reduce another potential cause of dry skin.

A Doctor of Nursing Practice, Leta M. Vaughan, DNP, CNM, sees patients at WomanCarePC, where women have full service to not only gynecology and obstetrics, but also to counselors, nutrition and exercise support, massage therapy, medical spa and functional medicine. For more information, call 847-221-4800 or visit WomanCarePC.com.