As you age, your skin changes. It becomes thinner, drier and less elastic. You may also see wrinkles, age spots and other changes. These changes are a natural part of aging. But they can be aggravated by sun exposure, smoking, poor diet and other factors.

To help keep your skin healthy and hydrated in your middle years:

1) Protect your skin from the sun. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply it generously, and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing when you’re outdoors, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

2) Quit smoking. Smoking speeds up the aging process by narrowing the blood vessels in the skin. This decreases blood flow and makes your skin dry and wrinkled.

3) Eat a healthy diet. Everyone knows that eating a healthy diet is important for your overall health, but did you know that what you eat can also impact your skin? That’s right, the food you consume can affect the health of your skin in a number of ways. For example, foods that are high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can cause inflammation, which can lead to breakouts and other skin problems. On the other hand, foods that are rich in antioxidants help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. So, if you want to keep your skin looking its best, be sure to include plenty of healthy foods in your diet.

4) Stay hydrated. You know that staying hydrated is important for your overall health, but did you know that it can also help to improve the condition of your skin? When your body is properly hydrated, your skin cells are better able to retain moisture, resulting in a plumper, more youthful appearance. In addition, hydration helps to flush out toxins and impurities that can cause breakouts. And because water makes up such a large component of the tissues in our bodies, proper hydration is essential for maintaining healthy-looking skin. So if you want to keep your skin looking its best, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Your skin will thank you for it!

5) Use a humidifier.  The dry air can cause your skin to become itch, dry, and flaky. A humidifier can help to alleviate these symptoms by adding moisture to the air. Additionally, using a humidifier can help to prevent cracks in your lips and noses. In order to get the most benefit from a humidifier, use it in conjunction with a good moisturizer. Apply the moisturizer immediately after turning on the humidifier so that your skin can absorb the moisture while it is still available. By taking these simple steps, you can help to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

6) Apply a moisturizer daily. Look for one that contains hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can help attract and retain moisture in the skin. Apply it while your skin is still damp from cleansing.

By following these tips, you can help keep your skin healthy and hydrated in your middle years.

References
Messaraa, C., Robertson, N., Walsh, M., Hurley, S., Doyle, L., Mansfield, A., Daly, L., Tansey, C., & Mavon, A. (2019). Clinical evidences of benefits from an advanced skin care routine in comparison with a simple routine. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 19(8), 1993–1999. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13252
Draelos ZD. (2012). Concepts in skin care maintenance. Cutis, 76(6 Suppl). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16869178/