Healthy Complexion Habits to Embrace After 40

When you’re young, taking good care of your skin may seem easy. But with each passing birthday, your usual skin care routine may not be enough to keep your skin looking good.

At Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics in Austin, Texas, we offer comprehensive skin care services for adults. Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, specializes in both medical and cosmetic dermatology services that can help protect the long-term health of your skin and ensure it always looks and feels great.

Dr. Bushore also provides resources you can use to keep your skin in great shape as you age. Here are a few strategies he recommends to address skin changes that become more common past age 40.

1. Be proactive about sun protection

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can prematurely age your skin if you’re not protecting it properly. If you spend a lot of time outdoors without sunscreen, you can develop wrinkles, lines, and age spots well before age 40. Sun damage can also increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

To protect your skin, be sure to use a high-quality sunscreen when you go outside in all seasons. You should also wear protective, lightweight clothing and wide-brimmed hats if you plan to be outdoors for an extended period of time. Apply sunscreen to all parts of exposed skin and reapply frequently, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

2. Moisturize daily

Age-related skin changes can increase the dryness in your skin, making fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable. Select skin moisturizers that trap water in your skin to keep it hydrated, and apply them in the morning and before bed.

Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, can recommend a daily moisturizer that offers sun protection. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, he can suggest specially formulated moisturizing products to keep your skin hydrated without clogging your pores.

3. Establish a cleansing routine

To keep your skin looking fresh, wash your face twice a day to remove dirt and excess oils. Apply warm water and a mild cleanser to your skin. Use your hands to gently spread the cleanser over your skin, then rinse your face thoroughly.

Avoid using brushes and harsh cleansing pads that can damage your skin. Dry your skin by patting it gently with a clean, soft towel.

4. Eat with your skin in mind

The foods you eat influence the health and appearance of your skin. Incorporate more fresh produce into your daily diet and opt for lean proteins and healthy fats.

There are also supplements you can take that can support your skin health. If you’re not sure which supplements are right for you, we can offer recommendations for high-quality products that fit your nutritional needs.

5. Don’t smoke

The toxins in tobacco can cause dramatic changes in your skin’s complexion. Smoking can dry out your complexion, speed up the loss of your skin’s firmness, and give your skin a dull, weathered appearance.

If you smoke, ask our staff for resources you can use to quit for good.

6. Schedule preventive screenings

Routine skin cancer screenings can lower your risk for skin damage and other complications.

Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, offers comprehensive skin cancer screenings, during which he can identify early warning signs of precancerous or cancerous conditions. If you have skin cancer, Dr. Bushore can develop a plan to treat it.

For personalized skin care tips to keep your skin vibrant and healthy, call 512-459-4869 or book an appointment online with Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics today.