Senior skincare isn’t just about looking good – it’s also a vital part of overall senior health. Your skin is your body’s largest organ and one of its most important lines of defense.
But as we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner, drier, and more sensitive. These effects are doubled in summer, as the sun’s harsh rays can worsen dryness, increase the risk of painful sunburns, accelerate signs of aging, and make the skin more prone to irritation and damage.
Keep reading for our 11 summer skincare tips for seniors to keep your skin strong, protected, and glowing this season.
1. Sunscreen Is Mature Skin’s Best Friend
The #1 rule of summer senior skincare is never skip sunscreen. UV rays are strongest in the summer and can do real damage to mature skin, like sunburns, dark spots, broken capillaries, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Overexposure also accelerates collagen breakdown, making wrinkles more pronounced.
- Use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30, and reapply every two hours when outside.
- Even indoors, UV rays can sneak in through windows, so daily sunscreen is a must for total protection.
- Opt for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin to physically block UV rays, rather than being absorbed like chemical sunscreens. That makes them a gentler, safer choice for mature skin.
Did you know you can get sunscreen delivered right to your doorstep with GoGo Pharmacy? GoGo can deliver essentials from your local pharmacy, so you don’t have to brave the sun to protect yourself from it this summer.
2. Avoid Midday Sun
Try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest. The sun is harsher during these hours, so you’re more likely to become dehydrated or overheated, which can have serious impacts on senior health and skin.
- When possible, plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your skin and eyes.
3. Stay Hydrated from the Inside Out
Senior health starts with hydration, and your skin is no exception. Dehydration happens faster as we age and can dramatically affect long-term senior skincare and wellness.
- Sip water regularly throughout the day (even if you’re not thirsty) to stay hydrated.
- Try infusing your water with lemon or cucumber for a refreshing twist.
- Limit dehydrating drinks like caffeine and alcohol, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
P.S. Skin feeling dry, tight, or flaky? That may be one of the early signs of dehydration, so grab your water bottle!
4. Use a Hydrating Moisturizer
As we age, our skin produces less oil, making it harder to retain moisture, especially in hot weather. The fix? A great moisturizer.
- Opt for lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers that won’t feel too heavy in the summer.
- Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin, which draw moisture into the skin and reinforce its protective barrier.
- Apply your moisturizer after washing your face or bathing to seal in hydration.
- Get a hydrating moisturizer delivered with GoGo Pharmacy so it’s easy to keep your senior skincare routine consistent all season long.
5. Switch to Lightweight Senior Skincare Products
While thick creams work wonders in winter, summer calls for lighter, breathable formulas that don’t weigh down your skin and are less likely to clog pores.
- Swap oil-based moisturizers for water-based gels, lotions, or serums. These soak in more easily and allow your skin to breathe, keeping you cool and refreshed.
- Consider using multi-tasking senior skincare products to simplify your routine. For example, use a moisturizer with built-in SPF or a tinted sunscreen that doubles as light coverage. Simplifying your summer skincare not only saves time but also minimizes the number of heavy layers on your skin.
6. Don’t Forget Your Lips, Ears, and Neck
The lips, ears, and neck are the often-forgotten areas of senior skincare but are especially vulnerable to sun damage. The skin here is thin and delicate, making it more prone to sunspots and skin cancer, so they need even more attention and care.
- Use your facial sunscreen on your neck and ears too.
- Don’t forget to swipe on an SPF lip balm before heading outside.
7. Exfoliate for Glowing Skin
Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, brightening and smoothing your skin. But mature skin requires a gentle touch when exfoliating:
- Choose a soft manual exfoliant, like a sugar scrub, instead of harsh peels or gritty cleansers.
- Start exfoliating your skin once a week and see how your skin responds.
- Need help choosing the best exfoliant for you? A pharmacist or dermatologist can guide you, and GoGo Pharmacy will deliver their recommendations straight from the local pharmacy to your doorstep.
8. Monitor for Skin Changes
Monitoring your skin is a vital part of senior health. Caring for mature skin means regularly checking for warning signs of skin cancer, which becomes more common with age. Make it a habit to check your skin often for:
- New or changing moles
- Rough or scaly patches
- Sores that don’t heal
- Spots that bleed or change color
Pay special attention to areas that get a lot of sun, like the face, scalp, neck, ears, arms, and hands. Use a mirror (or ask a loved one for help) to check your back, scalp, and other hard-to-see spots.
If something doesn’t look right, call your doctor.
9. Choose Skin-Friendly Fabrics
Tight, synthetic fabrics trap sweat and can cause irritation or chafing, especially for sensitive or fragile mature skin.
- Instead, wear loose-fitting clothes made of breathable materials like cotton or bamboo.
- Light-colored clothes reflect sunlight and help keep your body temperature down.
- Want extra protection? Look into UV-blocking clothing and accessories.
10. Make Senior Skincare a Self-Care Ritual
Senior skincare isn’t just about preventing damage – it can be soothing and joyful too. It’s an opportunity to slow down, check in with yourself, and show your body some love. Think of it as a daily act of self-love for the skin that’s protected you through every season of life.
Whether it’s smoothing on an aloe mask after a beach day or massaging your favorite moisturizer onto your face, turn your routine into a ritual. Light a candle. Play soft music. Take a deep breath. Create a senior skincare routine that brings you joy and results.
11. Let GoGo Pharmacy Handle the Errands
Don’t sweat the pharmacy runs – literally. Whether you need a restock on sunscreen, moisturizer, aloe, or prescription skincare, GoGo Pharmacy delivers all your senior skincare needs right to your door.
You don’t have to brave the heat, summer traffic, or long pharmacy lines. Just make a phone call to one of our friendly GoGo operators to get your pharmacy essentials delivered whenever it's convenient for you.
Our delivery service is designed specifically for older adults, so getting your skincare essentials is simple and stress-free. From over-the-counter items to dermatologist-approved treatments, GoGoGrandparent helps you stay consistent with your summer skincare routine and overall senior wellness plan.
Start Your Summer Senior Skincare Routine Today
Summer senior skincare isn’t just about looking good – it’s a reflection of overall senior health and how you care for yourself from the inside out. With the right habits, consistency, and support, caring for mature skin can be simple, effective, and even luxurious.
Register for GoGoGrandparent today to access pharmacy delivery, rides, groceries, and more, all without needing a smartphone. GoGo supports your senior skincare routine and your lifestyle, one delivery at a time.
