As we age, staying clean becomes even more important—but also a bit trickier. Published on July 10, 2025, by the Huffington Post, new insights explain how people over 65 can tweak their shower routines to take better care of aging skin. This info really matters for older adults, helping them feel comfortable and stay well.
Getting to know aging skin
Many folks stick to their lifelong habits without noticing a need to change. One big area that needs a little adjustment is skincare. As we get older, our skin changes—it gets thinner and more delicate (kind of like a fragile fabric). These changes happen partly because our skin produces less sebum, the natural oil that helps keep it moisturized. Without enough sebum, skin can dry out more easily, which means older skin needs a different kind of care than when we were younger.
Dr. Sylvie Meaume, a dermatologist who specializes in skincare for older adults, points out that as we age, our sleep patterns undergo significant changes, impacting mood and overall health. If seniors don’t adjust their habits and daily routines, they might end up dealing with issues like itching or irritation. That’s why it makes sense to rethink habits like how often we take a shower.
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How often to shower for seniors
Experts suggest that people over 65 should aim for one or two showers per week. Unlike younger folks who might enjoy a daily shower, older adults don’t need to wash every day to stay clean. The idea is to keep the skin’s natural oils intact, which help maintain moisture (keeping the skin’s barrier in good shape).
Taking daily showers can strip these oils away, making dryness even worse and potentially leading to other skin problems. By cutting back on showers, seniors not only keep themselves clean but also help their skin stay healthier.
Handy skincare tips for older adults
Beyond changing shower habits, there are a few more steps seniors can take to protect their skin:
- Avoid harsh scrubbing: Stick to a gentle cleanse to prevent damaging delicate skin.
- Use lukewarm water: Hot water can dry out the skin faster, so it’s best to keep the temperature moderate.
- Pat dry with a towel: Instead of vigorously rubbing, gently patting the skin dry can help avoid irritation.
These simple tips go a long way in guarding sensitive skin against extra wear and tear.
Other everyday hygiene tips
Good hygiene isn’t just about showering less often—it’s about the little things you do every day:
- Change underwear daily: This helps cut down on the risk of infections and unpleasant odors.
- Include gentle beauty care: A balanced routine that uses the right skincare products can really boost overall well-being (think of it as a little routine tweak for feeling good).
By keeping up with these habits, seniors can stay clean while also taking care of their skin as they age.
The advice from experts like Dr. Sylvie Meaume shows just how important it is to adjust personal care routines over time. For those over 65, figuring out the right shower frequency and caring for their skin can really improve daily comfort and quality of life. By adding these suggestions to their routines, older adults can enjoy healthier skin and reduce the discomfort that sometimes comes with aging.
