Turning 60 often brings a new appreciation for skin—not because we're chasing youth, but because we're learning how to care for the skin we have. Around this stage of life, the skin naturally becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic. Decades of sun exposure begin to show as age spots, uneven texture, and fine lines become more noticeable. Hormonal changes also play a role. Women experience a significant decline in estrogen after menopause, while men gradually lose testosterone, both of which contribute to decreased collagen production.
The good news? A thoughtful and simple skincare routine can dramatically improve comfort, hydration, and the appearance of healthy skin. The biggest change most people notice after 60 is dryness. The skin produces less oil, making it feel rough, itchy, or tight, especially during colder months or after bathing. I had itchy skin a couple of years agon, especially after the night sweats. When I scratched the itchy skin at night in my sleep, I woke up with welts. My dermatologist recommended thick skin creams that rebuilt the skin barrier, There are thousands of chemicals in the air and the skin needs to be protected with a shield.
This is where rich moisturizing creams become essential. Look for ingredients such as ceramides, which help repair the skin barrier; hyaluronic acid, which draws water into the skin; glycerin, which locks in moisture; squalane, a lightweight oil that mimics the skin's natural lipids; niacinamide, which supports barrier function and reduces redness; and peptides, which encourage firmer-looking skin. Night creams are often richer and thicker than day creams, and can provide extra nourishment while we sleep. During the day, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher remains the single most important anti-aging product we can use.
For women over 60, declining estrogen often means thinner skin, slower healing, and increased sensitivity. Creams that focus on barrier repair and gentle collagen support are ideal. A low-strength retinol introduced slowly, can improve texture and soften fine lines if your skin tolerates it. Men's skin, although generally thicker, also loses elasticity and moisture with age. Years of shaving can contribute to irritation, making fragrance-free moisturizers especially helpful. Regardless of gender, simpler routines often work best: a gentle cleanser, a hydrating moisturizer, sunscreen every morning, and one targeted treatment—such as a retinoid or vitamin C serum—used consistently. I usually cleanse my own makeup off with just coconut oil. I slather coconut oil and sunscreen on multiple times a day. I am in search of a makeup setting spray with a SPF 30+ that doesn't burn the eyes. That way, I can reuse the spray multiple times a day and refresh the look as well as protect my skin from the sun damage. So far, I have tried 17 brands of setting spray with sunscreen, and all have ingredients which burn my eyes!
Here are several dermatologist-recommended moisturizers that are widely available and suitable for mature skin:
Finally, remember that healthy skin starts from within. Drinking enough water, eating protein-rich foods, colorful fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, getting quality sleep, avoiding smoking, and staying physically active all support collagen production and skin repair. Aging skin doesn't need dozens of expensive products—it needs consistency, protection from the sun, and ingredients that nourish rather than irritate. With a few well-chosen creams and healthy habits, skin over 60 can remain comfortable, resilient, and radiant at every age.
Sincerely,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
The good news? A thoughtful and simple skincare routine can dramatically improve comfort, hydration, and the appearance of healthy skin. The biggest change most people notice after 60 is dryness. The skin produces less oil, making it feel rough, itchy, or tight, especially during colder months or after bathing. I had itchy skin a couple of years agon, especially after the night sweats. When I scratched the itchy skin at night in my sleep, I woke up with welts. My dermatologist recommended thick skin creams that rebuilt the skin barrier, There are thousands of chemicals in the air and the skin needs to be protected with a shield.
This is where rich moisturizing creams become essential. Look for ingredients such as ceramides, which help repair the skin barrier; hyaluronic acid, which draws water into the skin; glycerin, which locks in moisture; squalane, a lightweight oil that mimics the skin's natural lipids; niacinamide, which supports barrier function and reduces redness; and peptides, which encourage firmer-looking skin. Night creams are often richer and thicker than day creams, and can provide extra nourishment while we sleep. During the day, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher remains the single most important anti-aging product we can use.
For women over 60, declining estrogen often means thinner skin, slower healing, and increased sensitivity. Creams that focus on barrier repair and gentle collagen support are ideal. A low-strength retinol introduced slowly, can improve texture and soften fine lines if your skin tolerates it. Men's skin, although generally thicker, also loses elasticity and moisture with age. Years of shaving can contribute to irritation, making fragrance-free moisturizers especially helpful. Regardless of gender, simpler routines often work best: a gentle cleanser, a hydrating moisturizer, sunscreen every morning, and one targeted treatment—such as a retinoid or vitamin C serum—used consistently. I usually cleanse my own makeup off with just coconut oil. I slather coconut oil and sunscreen on multiple times a day. I am in search of a makeup setting spray with a SPF 30+ that doesn't burn the eyes. That way, I can reuse the spray multiple times a day and refresh the look as well as protect my skin from the sun damage. So far, I have tried 17 brands of setting spray with sunscreen, and all have ingredients which burn my eyes!
Here are several dermatologist-recommended moisturizers that are widely available and suitable for mature skin:
- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream – Excellent for very dry skin with ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
- La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+M – Ideal for sensitive, itchy skin.
- Vanicream Moisturizing Cream – Free of common irritants and fragrances.
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Lightweight hydration for normal to combination skin.
- Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream – Contains ceramides and urea to soften rough skin.
- Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream – Includes niacinamide and peptides for firmer-looking skin.
Finally, remember that healthy skin starts from within. Drinking enough water, eating protein-rich foods, colorful fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, getting quality sleep, avoiding smoking, and staying physically active all support collagen production and skin repair. Aging skin doesn't need dozens of expensive products—it needs consistency, protection from the sun, and ingredients that nourish rather than irritate. With a few well-chosen creams and healthy habits, skin over 60 can remain comfortable, resilient, and radiant at every age.
Sincerely,
KJ Landis
@superiorself on Instagram and X
@SuperiorSelf channel on YouTube
@superiorselfwithkjlandis on TikTok
[email protected]
Books available everywhere!
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