Caring For Aging Skin

KYW Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - This is the time of year when many of my patients notice that they think their skin is looking older. People are putting on light clothing, trying on bathing suits and out in the beautiful weather participating in sports and outdoor activities and they can not help but notice their skin.

Here is the good and the bad when it comes to skin and aging.

We age - and so does our skin. It loses fat, becomes thinner and may not heal as quickly.

A lot of skin aging has to do with sun damage over the years and, for many baby boomers, those early teen years were a time of baby oil and not much SPF lotion. So, the price to pay may be a steep one.

A few key points: don't give up with prevention. Continue to limit sun exposure without lotion and consider applying moisturizer daily to your skin and using warm water for baths and showers instead of hot water.

Also, don't underestimate the importance of exercising and eating a well balanced diet.

One other point - watch the alcohol. It tends to dry out the skin.