Fragile or thin skin that tears easily is a common problem in older adults. Aging, sun exposure and genetics all play a role in thinning skin. Certain medications, such as long-term use of oral or topical corticosteroids, also can weaken the skin and blood vessels in the skin.
Comprehensive recommendations for the prevention of skin tears in the elderly have been published. Most are common-sense recommendations, such as eliminating trip hazards and removing dressings gently, and some, such as wearing protective socks and moisturising, are supported by compelling evidence.
The main causes of skin tears are mechanical trauma, often from wheelchair injuries, removal of adhesive tapes or dressing, transfers and falls,1,6-8 though in some cases no apparent cause is found.
As you age, your body produces less collagen. Collagen is the building block of skin that helps prevent wrinkles, sagging, and moisture loss. Your genetics may contribute to how much collagen you lose as you age. As the dermis produces less collagen, your skin is less able to repair itself, resulting in thin skin.
Protecting the skin by wearing long sleeves, and long skirts or trousers can help. Using creams that contain vitamin A, also known as retinol or retinoids, may help to prevent skin from thinning further. Retinol creams are available in drugstores or online as cosmetic products.
Vitamin C–squalene bioconjugate promotes epidermal thickening and collagen production in human skin. R. Gref , C.
Skin toughening is a phrase commonly used by runners and hikers to describe the effect of astringent preparations. For example, alcohol foot soaks, salt water or black tea foot baths, Friars Balsam, Akileine Tano and others (Read, 1990; Vonhof, 2012).
It's been shown repeatedly that omega-3 fatty acids are essential for increasing collagen production, and therefore, making our skin stronger and improving the barrier function of our skin. Vitamin C also plays a major role in collagen, and you'll find it in foods like broccoli, leafy greens and citrus fruits.
As people age, the skin thins and people lose some of the protective layer of fat below the skin surface. So a minor bump is more likely to cause blood vessels to break, leading to bruising. Also, the small blood vessels themselves become less elastic and more fragile, leading to easier bruising.
Old age (age 50-70)
Because women go through menopause and hormonal changes around this stage in life, new wrinkles appear and the dermis and epidermis become dramatically thinner.
Skin naturally loses some of its ability to stretch and bounce back with aging. Sun exposure and habits, such as smoking, can accelerate this process. There are many successful treatments for improving skin elasticity. Lifestyle changes, such as wearing sunscreen, can help slow it down and minimize its effects.
Once thin, skin does not grow back and become thicker. The best way to protect your skin from becoming undesirably thin is to take steps to prevent it before it happens. If you make lifestyle choices or take medications that are known to thin your skin, talk to your doctor for treatment and suggestions.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and herring, are excellent foods for healthy skin. They're rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining skin health (1). Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary to help keep skin thick, supple, and moisturized.
Unlike wrinkles around the eyes and mouth (that result from repeated muscle movements), crepey skin typically can be traced to sun damage. Over time, exposure to the sun breaks down elastin, the fibers in your skin that allow it to stretch and return to its normal position.
Causes of sensitive skin reactions include: Skin disorders or allergic skin reactions such as eczema, rosacea, or allergic contact dermatitis. Overly dry or injured skin that can no longer protect nerve endings, leading to skin reactions.
Salt absorbs dirt, grime, and toxins and cleanses your skin's pores deeply. Salt's mineral content helps restore the protective barrier in skin and helps it hold hydration.
Sometimes referred to as Eric Clapton's Secret Elixir, rubbing alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the skin. Used by amateurs and professionals alike, rubbing alcohol helps harden the skin and, in some instances, can also help ease the pain.
Keep skin well-moisturized and protected by using a good moisturizing cream, such as Vanicream, CeraVe or Cetaphil. Talk to your doctor about treating skin with vitamin A (retinol), which might improve your skin's ability to tolerate injuries.
Vitamin D is one of the best vitamins for your skin, along with vitamins C, E, and K. Making sure you get enough vitamins can keep your skin looking healthy and youthful. This could translate to a reduction in: dark spots.
Zinc as an anti-inflammatory agent
Inflammation is important in the role of skin recovery, but too much can lead to free radicals that cause damage. Zinc reduces inflammation, healing tissues and smoothing skin. It's great for treating rosacea, eczema and melasma, among other skin conditions.
Vital Proteins produces many of the most popular collagen supplements on the market. Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen, in particular, is specifically formulated to enhance skin elasticity and hydration.
Cosmetic procedures that help stimulate the production and regrowth of collagen. Non-surgical cosmetic procedures like the ones below work by rebuilding or replacing collagen. Microneedling devices use a series of tiny needles to penetrate the skin, creating “wounds” that build new collagen as they heal.