What You Need To Know
1. Older adults should choose lotions designed explicitly for elderly skin that offer improved hydration, elasticity, and reduced wrinkles.
2. Our research indicated the best lotions for elderly skin are Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream with Sunscreen for normal to dry skin types, Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream for sensitive skin types, and Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Night Cream for dry skin.
3. Lotion should be applied twice daily to the entire body, preferably right after a shower or bath. Gently massage it into the skin until it is fully absorbed for maximum benefit.
As we age, our skin changes. Different types of skin—dry, oily, and sensitive—are all susceptible to the effects of aging.
As a result, older adults must choose a suitable moisturizing lotion for their skin type to keep their skin healthy and youthful.
Best Lotions for Elderly Skin
1. Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream with Sunscreen
Face Moisturizer by Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream With SPF 30 Sunscreen and Vitamin E for...
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream with Sunscreen is a moisturizer specifically formulated to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
It also provides adequate protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Its combination of advanced ingredients, such as amino-peptide complex, niacinamide, and glycerin, work together to help improve skin firmness and elasticity.
It also provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen protection, helping to protect seniors’ skin from further damage.
Pros:
- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
- Provides broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen protection
- Contains amino-peptide complex, niacinamide, and glycerin to improve skin’s firmness and elasticity
- Non-greasy and fast-absorbing formula
Cons:
- Contains fragrances, which can be irritating to some people with sensitive skin
- Can be expensive compared to other moisturizers
2. Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream
Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream with Pump Dispenser - 16 fl oz (1 lb) - Moisturizer Formulated...
Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream is a non-comedogenic, lightweight moisturizer that provides gentle hydration and protection for dry and sensitive skin.
The cream contains beneficial ingredients for aging skin, including petrolatum, mineral oil, and glycerin. These ingredients aid moisture retention, protect the skin from environmental stressors, and lessen wrinkles, making it ideal for elderly skin.
The cream also contains ingredients such as sorbitol, and simethicone, which help to soothe and soften the skin, while providing a protective barrier against irritants.
The cream is free of dyes, fragrances, lanolin, parabens, and other potential irritants, making it suitable for all skin types.
Pros:
- Non-comedogenic and lightweight for easy application
- Contains beneficial ingredients for aging skin
- Free of many common potential irritants
- Suitable for use on all skin types
Cons:
- Can leave a greasy residue on the skin
- Does not contain any active ingredients that can help to reduce wrinkles or improve skin tone
3. Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Night Cream
CETAPHIL Rich Hydrating Night Cream for Face, With Hyaluronic Acid, 1.7 oz, Moisturizing Cream...
Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Night Cream is a nourishing, non-greasy formula that is ideal for elderly skin. It replenishes a moist skin barrier with ceramides, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid.
It also includes ingredients such as squalane, vitamins B3 and E, and pro-vitamin B5 to help protect the skin from environmental damage and keep it looking healthy.
The Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to improve overall skin tone and texture. Cetaphil lotion deeply hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and comfortable.
Pros:
- Contains ceramides, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid to help restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier
- Contains squalane, vitamins B3 and E, and pro-vitamin B5 to help protect the skin from environmental damage
- Reduces the appearance of facial fine lines and wrinkles
- Deeply hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling soft and comfortable
Cons:
- May be too heavy for those with oily skin
- Not suitable for those with sensitive skin
4. Neova Serious Glypeel
NEOVA Serious Glypeel 60 ml
Neova Serious Glypeel is a professional-grade exfoliating treatment that reduces the visible signs of aging in elderly skin.
The glycolic acid, lactic acid, and powerful alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) gently exfoliate the skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin tone and texture.
It also contains the antioxidant green tea extract and hydrating sodium hyaluronate to help reduce inflammation and free radical damage.
The benefits of using Neova Serious Glypeel for elderly skin include improved skin texture and tone, reduced wrinkles and fine lines, and an overall brighter complexion.
It reduces inflammation and free radical damage. Plus, it reduces pore size and increases hydration, which reduces the appearance of age spots.
Pros:
- Improved skin texture and tone
- Reduced wrinkles and fine lines
- Overall brighter complexion
- Reduces inflammation and protects the skin from free radical damage
- Reduces pore size
Cons:
- Potential skin irritation, dryness, and redness
- Can make the skin more photosensitive to sunlight
5. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid for Dry Skin, Oil-Free and...
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that helps restore hydration to aging skin. Its hyaluronic acid binds water to the skin, and the olive extract reduces skin dryness.
It also contains glycerin, which helps lock in moisture and provide lasting hydration. Overall, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is an excellent choice for elderly skin as it helps to restore hydration, lock in moisture, and protect skin from dryness.
Pros:
- Lightweight formula that absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave skin feeling greasy
- Contains hyaluronic acid, which helps bind water to the skin
- Contains olive extract, which helps protect skin from dryness
- Contains glycerin which helps to lock in moisture
- Clinically proven to improve skin hydration
Cons:
- Can be expensive
- May contain fragrances that can irritate some skin types
6. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a lightweight, daily cream designed to help strengthen and repair skin weakened by aging.
It contains two key ingredients specifically formulated to help improve the skin’s barrier and protect against moisture loss.
Sensi-Protective complex protects against environmental aggressors such as pollution and UV radiation, and Ceramide-3 restores the skin’s natural barrier and locks in moisture.
The cream is also enriched with antioxidants like Vitamin E and Pro-Vitamin B5, helping skin retain moisture and fight free radical damage.
Niacinamide helps even skin tone and texture. It’s also free of parabens, fragrances, and other irritants, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer is an excellent choice for seniors with aging skin. It strengthens and repairs the skin’s barrier with antioxidant protection and improved skin tone and texture.
Pros:
- Lightweight texture and non-greasy finish
- Strengthen and repair the skin’s barrier
- Free of any potential irritants
- Protect skin from environmental stressors
- Even out skin tone and texture
Cons:
- May not be strong enough to provide sufficient hydration for very dry skin
- It may not be suitable for sensitive skin, as it may be too emollient
7. Aveeno Positively Radiant Creamy Moisturizer
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Facial Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum SPF 15 Sunscreen & Total...
Aveeno Positively Radiant Creamy Moisturizer is a skin care product that helps to nourish the skin and keep it hydrated.
It is specifically designed to address the special needs of aging skin. It contains vital ingredients like antioxidant-rich soy, vitamins A, C, and E, and hyaluronic acid.
These ingredients help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles visibly, improve skin texture and tone, and protect against damage caused by free radicals.
The moisturizer also contains broad-spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen, which helps to protect against sun damage.
Pros:
- Nourish and hydrate the skin
- Improve skin’s texture and tone
- Protect against sun damage
- Non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores
- Fragrance-free so that it won’t irritate sensitive skin
Cons:
- Not suitable for those with very dry skin, as it may not provide enough moisture
- Some potential irritants, such as dimethicone and phenoxyethanol, may irritate sensitive skin
8. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% Serum
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid with 2% + B5 (30ml) and The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%...
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% Serum is a lightweight hydrating serum that helps to plump up aging skin. It is formulated with a high concentration of hyaluronic acid, drawing moisture into the skin for a refreshed and youthful appearance.
Vitamin B5 improves skin texture and Vitamin E protects the skin from environmental damage. It’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones, and can be used both morning and night.
The benefits of using The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% Serum for seniors with aging skin include improved hydration, a more even skin texture, and protection from environmental damage.
Pros:
- Lightweight texture
- High concentration of hyaluronic acid
- Hydrate and protect the skin
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive
- Can be used both morning and night
Cons:
- Strong scent may be off-putting to some
- Relatively expensive product, so it may not be within everyone’s budget
The Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer is a lightweight, fast-absorbing night cream that hides the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
It is specially formulated with Retinol SA, Glucose Complex, and Hyaluronic Acid to help reduce wrinkles and diminish the look of age spots. It also contains Broad Spectrum SPF 30 to help protect skin from the sun’s damaging UVA/UVB rays.
Retinol SA promotes skin cell turnover, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The Glucose Complex brightens and evens skin tone.
Pros:
- Brighten skin tone
- Hydrate the skin
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing
- SPF 30 guards the skin from the sun’s damaging rays
Cons:
- Can be irritating to some people with sensitive skin
- May not be suitable for those with very dry skin
Types of Lotions: A Quick Review
Each type of lotion has a specific use and addresses a particular need. Here are the most common types and how to choose the right kind.
- Moisturizing lotion is a lightweight, oil-free formula that helps hydrate and replenish the skin. It’s best used after cleansing and should be applied with a gentle, circular motion to help it absorb better.
- Anti-aging body lotion is designed to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Look for lotions and creams containing hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to help plump and smooth the skin.
- Intensive treatment lotions target specific skin issues such as dryness, uneven skin tone, or wrinkles. These lotions generally contain ingredients such as retinol, peptides, and ceramides, which reduce wrinkles while providing intense moisture.
- Facial oils and serums add moisture to the skin and help to lock it in. Look for facial oils containing jojoba, sunflower, and avocado oil to provide antioxidant protection and help keep skin looking youthful.
- Sunscreen lotion is essential for protecting the skin from sun and UV damage. Look for lotions that offer broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of 30 or higher. Additionally, reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
What Lotion Ingredients Are Important for Mature Skin?
Choosing a moisturizing lotion for aging skin is important, so it’s essential to understand the ingredients in the product.
Different components can help address various skin issues, so it’s crucial to choose a lotion with the right ones for your skin type.
1. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from environmental damage, such as sun exposure and pollution. It hydrates the skin and reduces wrinkles.
Vitamin E helps reduce inflammation, benefiting seniors with skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema-prone skin. Vitamin E also reduces the appearance of age spots and evens skin tone.
2. Ceramides
Ceramides are fatty substances found naturally in the skin’s outermost layer and are essential for healthy skin barrier function. When used in lotion, ceramides replenish the skin’s natural lipid layer and protect against environmental damage and irritants.
This protection is particularly beneficial for seniors because ceramides reduce wrinkles, improve skin hydration, and protect against further damage from the sun and other environmental factors.
Additionally, ceramides can help to minimize skin irritation, which can be common among seniors with sensitive skin.
3. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant, attracting moisture to the skin and helping keep it hydrated. So, it is beneficial for all skin types, especially seniors, who often experience dry, itchy skin due to age-related factors.
Hyaluronic acid soothes and nourishes skin, providing long-term benefits such as improved tone and elasticity and fewer wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, hyaluronic acid reduces inflammation, benefiting seniors with eczema or psoriasis.
4. Peptides
Peptides are beneficial for mature skin because they make fine lines and wrinkles less noticeable, improve skin hydration, and even improve skin tone.
Peptides stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while improving skin firmness. They help by drawing moisture into the skin, making it appear softer and smoother.
Peptides protect the skin from environmental stressors and free radicals, which can cause premature aging.
5. Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which the skin needs to maintain its structure and elasticity. Amino acids reduce inflammation and redness and help increase collagen production, making the skin more robust and elastic.
Additionally, they protect skin from environmental irritations and soothe inflammation. Seniors should use lotions containing amino acids to help reduce wrinkles and keep the skin looking and feeling youthful.
6. Antioxidants
The antioxidants found in lotions protect the skin from environmental damage, reduce inflammation, and slow the aging process by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Seniors should use antioxidant-rich lotions that protect their skin from the sun and environmental pollutants and help keep their skin looking and feeling youthful.
7. Retinols
Retinols are a type of vitamin A that is beneficial for skin health. Retinols work by unclogging the pores in the skin and removing dead skin cells.
Additionally, retinol restores the skin’s natural barrier function and reduces acne. Seniors should use retinol as part of their skincare regimen as it can help improve overall skin health and look younger.
How to Choose A Moisturizing Lotion for Aging Skin
1. Quality Base Ingredients. Avoid lotions with fragrances, preservatives, and other harsh chemicals. Instead, choose products with natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil.
2. Hydrating Additives. When choosing a moisturizer, look for hydrating ingredients to help lock in moisture. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are all great options.
3. Know Your Skin Type. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, choosing a product that will work well with your skin type is essential. Read the bottles and know which ingredients are most beneficial for your type.
4. Anti-Aging Benefits. Many lotions for aging skin contain an anti-aging formula of ingredients like retinol and peptides, which help reduce wrinkles, lines, and discoloration and are important for mature skin.
5. Look for SPF. Sun protection is vital to any skincare regimen, but elderly skin may be more vulnerable to the sun’s UV rays. It can benefit significantly from a moisturizer containing an SPF.
6. Non-Comedogenic Formulas. Non-comedogenic formulas are essential for elderly skin because they won’t clog pores reducing breakouts and acne.
7. Skip the Scent. Avoid strong fragrances that irritate older skin and trigger allergic reactions. Instead, look for lotions specifically formulated for sensitive skin.
8. Your Climate. Consider your environment when choosing a lotion for elderly skin. Skin exposed to colder, drier climates may need a more hydrating lotion, while skin exposed to warmer temperatures may need a lighter, more cooling lotion.
9. Lotion Texture. Lotions for elderly skin should be lightweight and non-greasy, so they won’t weigh down the skin. Use a lighter lotion for the daytime and a richer, thicker lotion at night.
10. Packaging. Lotions for elderly skin should be easy to open and dispense, as seniors may have arthritis or other mobility issues. Look for large plungers and easy squeeze tubes.
Two Uses For Moisturizing Lotions
1. Applying lotion directly to the skin
Before applying lotion, seniors should thoroughly wash and dry the skin using a gentle cleanser and a soft towel. Then, apply a generous amount of lotion using a gentle circular motion.
Cover all areas of the body that are prone to dryness, such as the hands, feet, and face. Make sure it has soaked into the skin completely before dressing.
2. Using a moisturizer as a primer
Seniors can also use a moisturizer as a primer before applying lotion. To do this, apply a small amount of moisturizer to your skin using a gentle circular motion.
Once the moisturizer has been applied and absorbed, apply a generous amount of your standard lotion using the same gentle circular motion.
Allow it to absorb into the skin fully before dressing. Moisturizers are expensive, and this helps you make them last longer.
Maximizing the Benefits of Lotions
1. Start Clean. Wash your hands before applying lotion to avoid transferring bacteria to your pores when using it.
2. Keep it Light. Use a light touch when applying lotion to elderly skin. Gently use your fingertips to rub the cream into the skin. Avoid irritating the skin by rubbing the lotion vigorously.
3. Don’t Overdo It. Use a small amount of lotion, as elderly skin can be more fragile and prone to irritation. Start with a pea-sized amount and add additional lotion as needed. Too much lotion can cause clogged pores, which can lead to breakouts.
4. Problem Areas. Pay special attention to areas like the elbows, knees, and feet, which can become dry and cracked. We have some recommended foot creams for seniors and the elderly here. Be sure to massage the lotion into these areas carefully.
5. Apply After Bathing. Apply lotion to damp skin, like after a shower or bath. This will help seal in moisture.
6. Cool It Down. If your skin gets particularly dry in the winter, consider storing your lotion in the refrigerator. The cooling sensation will feel great on your skin, and the cold lotion can help lock in moisture.
7. Keep It Handy. Keep lotion near your sinks so you don’t forget to use it.
8. Skin Condition. If you have any cuts or scrapes, use a lotion that contains an antiseptic. This will help prevent them from becoming infected.
9. Double Up. Apply lotion at least twice a day, morning and evening, for optimal hydration
10. Check the Date. Seniors should check the expiration date of their lotion to ensure it is still viable and effective.
Video Guide
Audio Article
Infographic: Finding the Best Lotion for Elderly Skin
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