We all know our skin shows signs of aging, such as wrinkles, sagging, etc. However, some may not be aware these skin changes also depend on our diet, lifestyle, habits, and heredity. Also, here in India, we have more than a fair share of the sun throughout the year. Most of us go out in the sun without taking appropriate protection. Sunscreens are still not a part of the skin regime, and we are not worried about sun exposure. It is a fact and not a myth that sun exposure is the primary cause of skin damage, causing even cause cancer. Of course, factors like stress, obesity, loss of muscle tissue due to aging, etc., contribute to skin issues. And if you frown a lot, remember that affects your skin too, in the long run!
Aging weakens your skin and reduces skin cell turnover. You may notice this change as your skin takes longer to heal from a wound. Sometimes, you may see that dark spots crop up out of nowhere, and you may experience more incidences of skin infections than in your younger days. Here, we bring you three common skin issues you can watch out for in your senior years.
Skin tags
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These occur as small skin-coloured, raised growths of skin, seen more frequently in women as they age. These usually occur in the areas such as the neck, eyelids, and body fold such as the armpit, chest, and groin. These are mostly harmless. However, some people who are bothered about it get them removed. They are soft and smooth and not contagious. They hang off your skin and make it uncomfortable for a few. Neither do these cause any trouble or pain. Loose collagen fibres and blood vessels make up the skin tags. Obesity and Type 2 diabetes increases your chances of developing skin tags. These tags occur when skin rubs against itself and hence, occur in body folds, especially in obese people.
Sometimes, skin tags fall off on their own when they die due to a lack of blood supply. Removal of skin tags is cosmetic surgery, and you must have a detailed conversation with your doctor before deciding to opt for it.
Dry skin and itching
Many seniors suffer from extremely dry skin issues, leading to itching, bruises, and sometimes bleeding. These occur in patches across the body, mostly lower legs, elbows, and arms. Various reasons lead to dry skin, such as stress, sun exposure, smoking, lack of proper hydration, etc. However, it happens mainly due to losing sweat and oil glands in old age. Health issues like diabetes can increase your chances of developing dry skin and kidney problems. Did you know hot water baths and using more soap, perfumes, and deodorants can cause this skin issue? Do not ignore dry skin issues. Seek help and follow the prescribed skincare regime to keep skin dryness and itchiness at bay.
This problem must not be ignored and you should seek help and follow the prescribed skin regime to ensure that the dryness and itchiness can be kept at bay.
Athlete’s foot or Tinea Pedis
In a warm country like India, this infection is not uncommon. However, people do not seek treatment and often try home remedies that may not be effective. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist conditions and affects your feet. The common symptoms are itchy or cracked feet, blistered or peeling skin, etc. There could also be some redness or scaling on the toes. Sometimes, this infection spreads to the toes and makes them look yellow. If you find these symptoms, visit a dermatologist, and start the treatment. Apart from medicines, the doctor may prescribe a foot care regime to counter the conditions that cause the infection. The recovery is usually slow. Also, it occurs again unless you follow the prescribed skin regime for the foot. Foot hygiene is a prime issue in keeping this infection at bay.
Seniors can get affected by a few more skin issues, such as warts, age spots, Pruritus, eczema, etc. Skin issues are common in older age. However, you can prevent and cure many of these with proper care and timely treatment. It is essential to seek help when required and not ignore skin issues, as sometimes delaying treatment can cause unwanted complications and long-term treatment.
