Aging and the skin

Several pathologic processes of the skin are seen more commonly in the elderly, so these patients need special attention. The skin undergoes physiologic and structural changes as it ages, and knowledge of these changes is essential to accurately interpret the physical signs and symptoms that may be present in the elderly patient. Since cutaneous inflammatory responses and subjective sensations may be diminished in aged skin, a higher degree of vigilance in physical examination is needed to reach a proper diagnosis. Prevention of many of the cutaneous signs of aging and of most skin cancers is dependent upon sun avoidance. Thus, the best advice physicians can offer patients of any age is to limit sun exposure by using a sunscreen with a high sun-protection factor, to avoid being in the sun during the peak tanning hours (between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM), and to wear protective clothing when exposed to the sun.