Skincare for the Generations
It is a fact that people in their twenties aren’t worrying about the same skincare concerns as those in their fifties. The same goes for teens and seniors. However, even though the challenges and mindsets may vary per generation, Gen Z’ers, Millennials, Gen X’ers, and Baby Boomers are all taking note of their skin’s appearance. Whichever generation you fall in, taking steps to improve skincare and invest in your skin’s appearance is not wasted, and it is never too late!
The first step to targeted skincare is working with a licensed dermatologist who can help assess your skin type and work directly on solutions for areas of concern. If you’re a teenager or even an adult struggling with acne, there are treatments designed for that. Eczema, dry skin, age spots, wrinkles, large pores, and dull skin can all be successfully treated by a professional. The difference between generations is often the willingness to seek help from a specialist. Baby Boomers may be more likely to go to the local drug store and try to solve their skin concerns by reading labels, but with a flooded skincare product market, this approach can be a hit or miss.
Baby Boomer Skincare Bummers
The Baby Boomer generation may be facing a few skincare bummers as they walk through their 50s, 60s, and 70s. As people age, skin stops producing some of the things that keep skin looking young, including sagging, wrinkles, skin thinning, and age spots. This generation is also more likely to find signs of skin cancer, which can be removed and successfully treated by a professional dermatologist.
Some of the other chronic skin conditions Baby Boomers face are dermatitis and rosacea. Regular check-ups can prevent these from becoming more serious and also help manage them and avoid flare-ups.
Generation X Life Changes
Generation X is going through what some consider the midlife crisis generation. This is the generation walking through their 40s and 50s. Aging has started to occur, and the initial signs can be shocking. This is also the generation that spent summers in the sun, lathered up in baby oil, and rarely used sunscreen. Sun damage is prevalent, and age spots begin to appear on sun-exposed skin. Generation X is seeing uneven skin tones and realizing their skincare routine likely needs to change. Women in Gen X are entering menopause and will experience hormonal changes that can significantly alter their skin. Skin may be drier, which is why they should seek more hydrating and moisture-based products in their skincare routine.
Mysterious Millennials
Millennials, in their 20s and 30s, are likely still making lifestyle choices without realizing the long-term effects of staying up late, skipping sleep, and relying heavily on coffee. Some in this generation will already be seeing signs of aging, including fine lines around the eyes, and hyperpigmentation may also begin to appear. The fast-paced, stressful lifestyles of this generation can create many skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and dark eye circles. Diet-happy Millennials are realizing they need to find more sustainable food choices and lifestyle habits that give their skin and bodies the rest they need.
Carefree Generation Z
Acne is the most common skincare concern for Generation Z. Teenagers and young adults may still be experiencing hormonal changes that directly affect their skin. Foods, allergies, bad hygiene, and resistance to routine are leading to continued dermatology visits to “fix” acne issues. Parents may want their teens to have acne-free faces, but even with the best products, teens must use them to see results. Generation Z is the product of COVID-19 and mask-wearing, which is where skin troubles began. Although this generation may not be thrilled about a skincare routine, they do have awareness of skin health and are willing to experiment with different products. Youthful skin may not be able to take some of the harsher products of older generations, which is why it is most beneficial wot work with an experienced dermatologist for all generations!
Whatever generation you are, skincare matters and is a direct reflection of our overall health. Regular visits to your local dermatologist can help keep your skin looking healthy and address any concerns as they arise. When it comes to skin conditions that make a person feel self-conscious, they deserve to be seen by a professional who can help them achieve their skin’s optimal appearance. The Baby Boomer generation may have grandkids in Gen Z, and some Gen Xers may have teens or young adults in their lives who need to start being proactive about their skincare. One thing is for sure: every generation can encourage the next to prioritize sunscreen and skin health to minimize the risk of getting skin cancer in their older years.
If you live or work in Atlanta and want to connect with the best dermatologist in the area, contact Dr. Sherrie Straugh at Buckhead Dermatology today.