A lot changes as we age, and the best thing we can do is adapt with the shifts. “As we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner, drier and less elastic, especially on the body,” says Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill. Knowing this, it might be time for your body-care routine to get a revamp. “Taking care of your body’s skin after 50 isn’t about chasing youth—it’s about honoring the skin you’re in and giving it the support it deserves,” says aesthetician Jillian Wright.
However, your routine doesn’t have to be 10 steps. “I’m a big believer in the simpler, the better. If you have the time and enjoy a little ritualistic care, that’s great, but don’t feel pressured by unattainable influencer routines you see online,” says Dr. Longwill. “Consistency is key. A basic, easy-to-follow routine that you stick with every day is far more effective than an elaborate one you skip.” Below, the experts shared the non-negotiable body-care routine steps for mature skin as well as a few recommended additions.
Featured experts
- Dr. Deborah Longwill is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami
- Dr. Sue Ellen Cox is a board-certified dermatologist in Chapel Hill, NC
- Daniel Schlessinger, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Omaha, NE
- Rachel Nazarian, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Jillian Wright is a professional aesthetician
Must: Hydration
“Hydration is non-negotiable,” says Dr. Longwill. She recommends body creams or lotions with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, oils or urea to restore the skin barrier and lock in moisture. “Urea naturally attracts water and softens excess keratin in the outer skin layers, leading to soft, hydrated skin,” explains Chapel Hill, NC dermatologist Sue Ellen Cox, MD. “It’s imperative to have a moisturizer that addresses aging skin and improves skin’s natural moisture while minimizing moisture loss,” says New York dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD. She recommends a moisturizer that contains both a humectant to pull in water and an emollient to seal it in.
Omaha, NE dermatologist Daniel Schlessinger, MD says, “Daily moisturizing becomes critical as skin naturally produces less oil with age, and hormonal changes during menopause further reduce skin hydration.” He notes that moisturizers should be applied to slightly damp skin to lock in moisture for best results. For extra hydration, Dr. Longwill recommends body oil post-shower as well. “Oils with ingredients like squalane, rosehip or jojoba can enhance radiance and elasticity.”
Ones to try: Soft Services Carea Cream ($40), Epionce Enriched Body Cream ($42), Gold Bond Healing Hydrating Body Lotion ($10), ISDIN Uradin Lotion 10 ($42)
Must: Cleansing
Cleansing is a non-negotiable for skin of any age, but what works best with your skin tends to shift. The experts say gentle cleansing is the name of the game. Dr. Longwill recommends a “hydrating, non-stripping body wash—preferably one that’s fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin.” Dr. Schlessinger notes harsh soaps and products with sulfates should be generally avoided so as not to strip the skin’s natural barrier.
Ones to try: Avene XeraCalm AD Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil ($34), Oak Essentials Awaken Body Wash ($36), Dove Calming Moisture ($10), Oui the People Lactic Acid Body Wash ($30)
Must: Sun protection
“Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your body! I see so many women who are diligent about their faces but completely ignore their hands, chests and arms. These areas tell our age story loud and clear, so use broad-spectrum SPF 50 minimum, every single day,” says Dr. Schlessinger. Not only will this help keep skin safe, but it will also help prevent age spots, loss of elasticity and further collagen breakdown, says Dr. Longwill.
Ones to try: EltaMD UV Active Mineral Sunscreen ($42), Toty Solaria Body SPF 50 ($38), TiZO Ultra Zinc Mineral Sunscreen ($45), Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen ($19)
Recommended: Exfoliation
“Gentle, regular exfoliation helps improve texture and tone by promoting cellular turnover,” says Wright. Some experts say gentle exfoliation once or twice a week is essential—others say it’s just highly recommended. “Weekly gentle exfoliation can help improve skin texture and product absorption,” explains Dr. Schlessinger.
“Avoid harsh scrubs, which can irritate thinning skin,” warns Dr. Longwill. Dr. Schessinger recommends opting for body lotions with gentle AHAs. Similarly, Dr. Longwill suggests using gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic or glycolic acid to help with dullness and texture.
Ones to try: Paula’s Choice Skin Revealing Body Lotion 10% AHA ($32), Biossance Squalane + Enzyme Sugar Body Scrub ($28), StriVectin Crepe Control Exfoliating Body Scrub ($35), Glytone Exfoliating Body Lotion for Dry Skin ($48)
Recommended: Targeted treatments
“For concerns like hyperpigmentation, sagging or stretch marks, products with niacinamide, caffeine or antioxidants can be beneficial,” says Dr. Longwill. For skin concerns like irritation, inflammation or a compromised barrier, all of which are more common with age, Dr. Schlessinger recommends a soothing, fragrance-free product.
Ones to try: Nécessaire The Body Vitamin C ($58), SickScience DropOff Serum ($48), Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil Serum ($22), FixMySkin 1% Hydrocortisone Healing Body Balm ($23)
Recommended: Retinol or peptide products
“Yes, body-specific retinol exists,” says Dr. Longwill. “Using it on areas like the arms, chest or the backs of hands can help with crepiness, sun damage and tone over time.”
Ones to try: Revision Skincare BodiFirm ($162), Josie Maran Pink Algae Pro-Retinol Body Butter ($42), Beauty Pie YouthbombBody 360° Repair Concentrate ($75), Dove Body Cream Serum Pro-Retinol + Firming ($14)
