Bathing Over 65: Why Less Is More for Healthy Skin

 

Recommendation: Use a fragrance-free, moisturizing, non-soap cleanser with a neutral pH.

 

The No-Scrub Approach

 

TOOL EFFECT

 

Loofahs, rough washcloths, brushes Physically abrade fragile aging skin; can cause micro-tears

 

Soft hands or soft cloth Gentle; cleans without damage

 

Recommendation: Use your hands or a very soft cloth. Avoid scrubbing. Let the cleanser do the work.

 

After-Bath Care: The Most Important Step

 

What you do immediately after

bathing is often more important than the bath itself.

 

The Golden Window

 

TIME ACTION

 

Within 3 minutes of exiting the water Apply moisturizer to damp skinHealth

 

Pat skin dry with a towel (do
Mobility

 

CHALLENGE SOLUTION

 

Difficulty standing for long showers Use a shower chair; take seated “bird baths”Beauty Services & Spas

 

Reaching all body areas Long-handled sponge or soft brush

 

Risk of falls Non-slip mat; grab bars;

There’s more to discover. Continue to the next page for the rest of this article.