[Aged-related principles of topical therapy]

Topical therapy should always be adapted to patients' age due to changes in skin physiology. This is particularly applicable when choosing a cream or ointment and the active substances. The expectations for therapy also change with age. The motivation to perform therapy as well as the physical ability to do so also changes with age. Children and elderly patients often need help in applying topical agents. In addition, range and cause of diseases varies considerably within age groups. Finally, the penetration of the active substance from creams and ointments may also change with age.