Common Skin Changes as We Age

Wrinkles, age spots and bruising are all common signs of aging skin. Dermatologists say the sun is one of the top culprits to damaging and aging the skin as well as causing skin cancer. Raised, crusty growths known as actinic keratosis are also common and caused by ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds. As they can become cancerous, your dermatologists may remove one surgically, burn it off or give you a cream to apply. 

Seborrheic keratosis are benign dark spots on the skin often confused with skin cancers so it is important to one checked out by a doctor. Age spots are also typically benign and doctors say if you want to prevent getting them use sunscreen and avoid spending time in the direct sun. Occasionally your doctor may test one for cancer. Treatment includes using a bleaching products or having them removed by your physician. 

Cherry angiomas are dark red bumps on the skin and can appear anywhere. Generally harmless, they can be removed with a laser if you want. Spider veins are also very common and are a small bundle of broken blood vessels occurring on the face, legs and feet. Again, they can be treated with a laser and removed. 

As the skin ages, it becomes thinner and loses fat, making bruising more common, which is caused by broken blood vessels near the surface of the skin. Usually just age-related, excessive bruising can be the result of blood-thinning medications so mention it to your doctor. 

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends everyone, whether or not they have had a previous skin cancer, to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. They also recommend adults have an annual skin cancer screening check. More often if you are at a high risk for skin cancer. 

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Source: webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-age-related-growths