Is your skin aging well?

Our skin tells a story of the life we’ve lived and gives us clues about our health. From sunspots to wrinkles to changes in texture and elasticity, our skin naturally changes as we age. But how do you know if your skin is aging well? And what can you do to make sure it’s healthy?

Signs of skin damage

“We can tell a lot about your skin health through certain visible markers,” says Dr. Jane Harrell, a dermatologist at Aurora Health Care. “We can also tell how healthy your skin is based on certain lifestyle factors like sleep schedule, exercise routine, stress levels and certain drug usage like smoking.”

Harrell also stresses that a lot of skin damage is from exposure to the sun’s UV rays. The sun is one of the leading causes of skin damage and visible aging, so protecting yourself early and often is key for healthy skin as you age.

Signs your skin is aging well

While there are a lot of factors that can determine if your skin is aging poorly, here’s how you can tell if your skin is aging well:

• Your skin heals quickly from injuries.
• Your skin has a smooth texture.
• Your face is maintaining a healthy amount of elasticity and facial volume.
• You have minimal sunspots and discoloration.

If you’ve been looking for ways to improve your skin health, there are some easy steps you can take to make sure your skin is healthy as you age:

• Use mild cleansers and wash your skin gently with warm water.
• Use sunscreen regularly and wear protective clothing to avoid sun exposure. This includes tanning beds as they emit the same harmful UV rays.
• Drink plenty of water and use moisturizers to keep your skin well hydrated.
• Prioritize reducing stress and getting plenty of sleep.
• Avoid smoking as it can damage skin over time.

“It’s never too late to start treating your skin better,” Harrell says. “Focusing on some small changes while keeping your provider informed of any changes in your skin will help keep your skin healthy as you age.”

Are you trying to find a doctor? Find one in Illinois or Wisconsin.