Tips for Healthier Skin as You Age

As we age, our skin naturally changes—becoming thinner, drier, and more delicate. While we can’t stop time, there are many ways to help skin stay healthier, more resilient, and radiant. Developing consistent habits and making thoughtful lifestyle choices can go a long way toward preserving skin health and comfort.

One of the most important steps is keeping skin hydrated. Drinking enough water each day supports overall skin function, but moisturizing regularly is equally essential. Look for gentle, fragrance-free creams or ointments that lock in moisture, and apply them after bathing to seal in hydration. Avoiding long, hot showers can also help prevent dryness.

Protecting skin from the sun remains critical at any age. Daily use of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher helps prevent wrinkles, age spots, and, most importantly, reduces the risk of skin cancer. Wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves provides additional protection when outdoors.

Nutrition also plays a role in skin health. A diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins—such as those found in colorful fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish—can help maintain skin elasticity and repair. Limiting sugar and processed foods may also help reduce inflammation that accelerates aging.

Finally, lifestyle choices like getting enough sleep, managing stress, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol can all help skin remain vibrant. Restorative sleep allows skin to repair itself, while stress reduction techniques such as meditation or light exercise can help prevent stress-related flare-ups. Together, these small daily steps can add up to big benefits for healthier, more youthful-looking skin as you age.

To learn about more tips for healthier skin as you age, from the National Institute on Aging, CLICK HERE.