Scientists haven't yet been able to reverse the ageing process. And while our skin naturally loses tautness and elasticity, becoming drier and more wrinkled as we get older, there are things we can do for healthier skin and a fresher-looking complexion.
Here are some skin care essentials for 60+ skin:
What does 60+ skin need most?
"It's good for 60+ skin to be sufficiently hydrated - to get plenty of moisture, in other words," says dermatologist Dr Marion Moers-Carpi. So after cleaning your skin, you should make it a habit to apply a moisturizer. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin increase your skin's water content.
Protecting your skin from the sun is equally important. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 50, because ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation, which makes up most of the sun's rays that reach the skin, gradually destroys its collagen layer and increases visible signs of skin ageing.
A protein found in the body's connective tissues - also in the skin - collagen gives them strength and elasticity.
"The collagen layer begins to decrease by about 1% yearly around the age of 20 anyway," notes Moers-Carpi. So the older you get, the more important proper sun protection is - especially considering that it also lowers the risk of skin cancer.
Not only is external moisture needed for fresh-looking skin, but internal moisture as well. So you should drink plenty of fluids: "two-and-a-half to three litres per day - specifically water," Moers-Carpi advises.
Other practices, too, have a positive impact on skin appearance. "They include a lifestyle with little stress and sufficient sleep," says Martin Ruppmann, spokesman for the Berlin-based Cosmetic Professonal Association (VCP).
Proper cleaning of facial skin is essential. Especially in the evening, you should wash away dirt particles with a gentle cleansing milk and lots of water so that the skin can regenerate overnight.
How often should you moisturize your skin?
Twice daily is enough. "The creams should be non-oily and moisture-rich," Moers-Carpi says. In between applications you can use a thermal water spray. It does your skin good, particularly at the time of year when it's subjected to dry air in heated rooms.
How can you help prevent wrinkles?
Sun protection and proper skin care, of course. Plenty of exercise is also beneficial to your complexion, according to Ruppmann. Aerobic exercises such as running, swimming and cycling boost blood circulation, including to the skin. Its cells get more oxygen, which can give your skin a fresher look.
Not smoking or drinking alcohol will do your skin a favour as well, especially if you're over 60. "Nicotine promotes the formation of wrinkles," warns Moers-Carpi.
How important is nutrition for your skin?
Very. "Particularly after age 60, it's important to have a diet low in sugar and high in vitamins," Moers-Carpi says.
Since your body's production of collagen decreases as you get older, it's a good idea to give it nutrients that facilitate production. Among them are vitamin C, found in many fruits and vegetables, and the trace element zinc, found in certain cheeses and peanuts, for example.
As for dietary supplements containing collagen, the pertinent web portal of Germany's consumer advice centres recommends avoiding them. They won't affect the natural ageing process, it says, adding that a varied diet with sufficient protein will supply the body with all it needs to produce collagen.
What's also good to know is that vitamin D aids skin regeneration. Fatty salt-water fish are rich in vitamin D, which can also be synthesized in the body through exposure to sunlight.
What can dermatologists or cosmetologists do for you to counter wrinkles?
Many dermatology practices offer skin booster treatments in which a blend of revitalizing compounds, including hyaluronic acid, are injected into the skin to hydrate it. "Skin boosters achieve what no cream in the world can," remarks Moers-Carpi, as they supply moisture to deeper skin layers and not just the surface.
Skin boosters also stimulate collagen production, which can improve skin quality. Side effects are possible though, namely temporary swelling and redness at the injection sites. Results last about six months, and treatments will cost many multiples of what your skincare products cost - at least €200 ($220) per treatment in Europe, $150 in the US or 10,000 rupees ($120) in India, for example.
If you don't want injections, cosmetic studio specialists can massage moisture into your deeper skin layers using a special technique. And if you've already got wrinkles and age spots, laser treatment in a dermatology practice can improve the appearance of your skin.
