Relationship Between Activity Level and Skin Moisturizing Function in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Age-related decline in skin moisture affects many older adults and is exacerbated by factors such as sun exposure and lifestyle habits. Recent research has explored the potential of exercise to improve skin moisture; however, the optimal activity levels remain unclear. This study investigated the link between exercise habits and skin moisture to inform clinical preventive strategies.

In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the relationship between stratum corneum (SC) hydration and lifestyle habits in older adults using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short version and a self-administered questionnaire. Participants were recruited from community spaces and local elderly facilities. Data were collected between September 1 and December 31, 2023. Based on the IPAQ responses, physical activity levels were classified as low, moderate, or high, and SC hydration was measured on the right forearm. Statistical analyses were conducted using t-tests.

A total of 124 participants were included, with a mean age of 84.3 ± 9.2 years. Among them, 69.4% were female. The participants were belonged to low (57) and moderate/high (67) activity-level groups, with significant differences in SC hydration ( P = 0.001) between the groups.

Cross-sectional design, restricted sample, and potential unmeasured confounding may limit interpretation.

The results suggested a significant difference in horny skin water content between the low-and moderate/high-activity groups, indicating that exercise habits may enhance skin moisturization, possibly via increased skin blood flow, stress reduction, improved sleep, and increased collagen production. Exercise regimens may mitigate age-related decline in skin function, potentially offering a preventive strategy for skin dryness and related conditions in older adults.