Treatment of the aging skin by dermatologic methods

Adverse physiologic and biochemical changes in the aging skin are aggravated by unprotected, continuous or repeated exposure to the harmful rays of the sun. Waning hormonal activity contributes to these changes. The associated clinical entities are skin dryness, accentuation of facial lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and multiple benign or malignant growths. The skin should be protected by sunscreening and sunblocking agents. Overexposure to the sun must be avoided. Repeated applications of moisturizing creams, vegetable oils, and appropriate hormonal cosmetics may be helpful in hydrating the skin and thus improving its external appearance. Chemosurgery (peeling) and dermabrasion may reduce hyperpigmentation and fine facial lines and wrinkles. New growths can be removed by various surgical methods. Biopsy should be performed to determine the presence of a malignant lesion requiring additional x-ray therapy.