Generational Skincare Concerns
Although skin health is a concern for everyone, the issues vary and are common among those of similar ages. Acne may feel like torture to teenagers, whereas aging adults seek ways to minimize the signs of aging. There is no perfect solution for all, but the best dermatologists have the training and experience to provide treatment options to help all generations feel wonderful about their skin and optimize its appearance and health.
Gen Z Skincare
If you were born between 1997 and 2012, you are a Gen Zer. Acne is the most common skincare concern for teens and young adults. This generation is experiencing hormonal changes that directly affect many, causing breakouts and skin changes typical of this generation in 2024. Gen Zers were also part of the mask-wearing group during COVID-19, so the “mask” has worsened some skin conditions.
Gen Z also knows skin health and its importance, so this group tends to be more willing to test new products and follow social media trends. The downside is when a new product exacerbates skin sensitivity or triggers an allergic reaction to their youthful skin. Gen Zers would benefit from finding gentle skincare products with ingredients that are not known to affect the skin harshly. A licensed and professional dermatologist can provide excellent guidance on skin type and the best products to address any skincare concerns.
Although most people do not, it is always recommended to test and patch new products on the skin so if there is an adverse reaction, it doesn’t spread.
The Millennials Skincare
Those Millennials born between 1981 and 1996 are now starting to experience the signs of aging and hyperpigmentation on their skin. This generation is in their late 20s and 30s, and many Millennials see wrinkles and fine lines in the mirror staring back at them now. The eyes and mouth are the most common areas that get wrinkles and fine lines, hence the continually growing range of products for anti-aging on the shelf and being promoted through social media. Again, anti-aging products are expensive. Instead of guessing about products, consulting with a professional in the skincare industry can take the guesswork out of finding the best anti-aging products for your unique skin.
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition that many millennials face. When they are younger, they spend time in the sun without proper sunscreen protection, which worsens the onset and early signs of hyperpigmentation. The fast-paced lifestyle of many millennials, with stressful careers and sporadic sleep patterns, can impact the skin’s health and appearance. Dark eye circles and a dull appearance can leave millennials craving solutions to their generational skincare concerns.
Millennials must counter some earlier decisions to achieve optimal skin health and appearance.
Generation X Skincare
Generation Xers are now in their 40s and 50s and dealing with visible signs of aging and sun damage. Like the Millennials, most Gen Xers didn’t heed much warning about sunscreen in their younger years, which is why Gen Xers are seeking ways to address pronounced signs of aging, like sagging skin due to loss of elasticity and wrinkles. Age spots and uneven skin tones are common skincare concerns for Gen Xers.
Women Gen Xers also face the skin challenges that come with perimenopause and menopause. Significant hormonal changes always affect the skin’s appearance. As estrogen levels reduce, skin becomes drier and looser. Gen Xers often prefer hydrating and thicker skincare products to help cover the signs of aging.
The Boomers
Baby Boomers are those currently in their late 50s to their 70s, born between 1946 and 1964. Skin’s elasticity is further depleted, so wrinkles are more noticeable; Boomer skin is thinner, more fragile, and more likely to bruise. Chronic skin conditions are most common among Boomers, but regular visits to the dermatologist can address any signs of skin cancer and help manage skin conditions as people age. Age is something to be embraced, and when using the right products and choosing a healthy lifestyle, aging can be much more enjoyable!
Listen Up: Skincare Advice for ALL Generations
Advice that is consistently supported by dermatologists applies to every generation. The top advice that is relevant for all generations is daily sunscreen. The sun’s UV rays only adversely affect the skin, regardless of generation. Beauty product suppliers have created incredible daily sunscreen options for all skin types and colors that work with and without makeup. The number two thing dermatologists tell all clients is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Across generations, drinking water will improve skin and make it look healthier. Water alone won’t fix skin concerns, but it provides a healthy base for skin and appears much better than dry skin!
Are you in Atlanta and want to work with the best dermatologist in Buckhead? Contact Dr. Sherrie Straughn of Buckhead Dermatology today for an appointment!