Showering After 65: How to Keep Aging Skin Healthy and Comfortable
As people move past the age of 65, the body changes in subtle but important ways. One of the most significant—and often overlooked—changes involves the skin. Aging skin becomes thinner, more fragile, and less capable of retaining moisture. Oil production slows, elasticity decreases, and the skin’s ability to repair itself weakens. These shifts mean that everyday habits, including showering, may need to be adjusted to protect comfort and long-term skin health.
Why Aging Skin Needs Different Care
Routines that once felt energizing can start working against older adults. Long, hot showers may feel soothing, but they can strip away natural oils that protect the skin. These oils act as a barrier, locking in moisture and shielding skin from irritation, bacteria, and environmental stress. When they are washed away too often, dryness, itching, and sensitivity can take hold.
Frequent showering is a common contributor to discomfort after 65. Hot water opens pores and dissolves oils, while strong soaps remove them entirely. Over time, this weakens the skin barrier, making cracks, redness, and inflammation more likely. Persistent itchiness, flaking, or a tight feeling after bathing may be caused not by dirt, but by the routine itself.
Continue reading on the next page…