From a certain age, daily activities should be approached with care. One of the simplest actions—taking a shower—might actually be harming your skin without you even noticing. What if we told you that after the age of 65, daily showers might not be the best idea? Can you believe it? It’s a surprising recommendation, but one that has been assessed by professionals.
Why does skin change as we age?
As our bodies develop, our skin evolves too.
As time goes by, our skin loses some of its inherent abilities. The decline in collagen, elastin, and sebum—key components that keep our skin firm, flexible, and safeguarded—can lead to noticeable changes.
Consider the skin barrier as a knight’s shield: over time, this shield becomes thinner and more delicate. Additionally, external factors like pollution, cold weather, and chemicals find it easier to penetrate. Frequent showering is also an unlikely aggravating factor.
Excessive showers can really dry out the skin.
Hot water and harsh soaps can be detrimental to mature skin.
Showering can be delightful, refreshing, and almost ritualistic. However, when the water is excessively hot and the products too harsh, we wash away more than just dirt: we also harm the skin’s natural protective layer.
For individuals over 65, this can result in redness, tightness, itching, and even minor infections. Furthermore, showering too frequently disrupts the skin’s microbiome, the invisible flora that plays a crucial role in combating microbes.
The ideal frequency: 2 to 3 showers weekly
Less is more!
Experts have discovered that for mature skin, it’s advisable to limit showers to 2 or 3 times a week. This is sufficient to maintain cleanliness while safeguarding the skin’s natural moisture.
This approach, already utilized in the medical field, is an effective strategy for delicate skin. It allows you to maintain good hygiene without damaging the epidermis, similar to how we prefer to service a car regularly instead of washing it daily.
The right actions in the shower
Choosing the right products makes a significant difference.
When you take your shower, consider these tips:
- Keep the temperature moderate, avoiding hot water.
- Use gentle, enriched soaps or soap-free shower gels that are specifically designed for sensitive skin.
- Limit your shower time to about 5 minutes.
- Gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it.
And most importantly, remember to moisturize after every shower. A nourishing cream is essential for restoring the protective barrier that water can damage.
In summary: caring for your skin is also a way of caring for yourself.
Regardless of age, especially after 65, our skin requires attention, care, and protection. Modifying your hygiene routine doesn’t mean giving up on cleanliness; rather, it signifies a deeper understanding of your body and its true needs.