Mother’s Day 2025: Common skin changes in older moms, tips to soothe dry skin and itching

Gift your mother a thick, fragrance-free cream or ointment that can do wonders for her dry, ageing skin. Look for products with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin (Image: Canva)

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the love, strength, and sacrifices of the women who raised you. While flowers and breakfast in bed are lovely gestures, caring for your moms' health, inside and out, is a gift that truly lasts. As your mother ages, their skin begins to change, often becoming dry, itchy, or developing new marks like age spots and skin tags. Though many of these changes are a natural part of ageing, some can be uncomfortable or need extra care.

As moms grow older, it’s common for their skin to lose its natural moisture and elasticity. You may notice dry patches, especially on their arms, legs, or elbows. These spots can feel rough, itchy, or even scaly. This isn't just due to ageing. Other factors like sun exposure, dehydration, living in dry environments, or frequent hot showers can all make dry skin worse. Even using harsh soaps, strong perfumes, or overbathing can strip the skin of its natural oils

According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), dry, itchy skin is one of the most common skin complaints among older adults. With age, skin becomes thinner and less able to retain moisture. The NIA suggests using mild soaps and warm water for bathing, never hot, as well as avoiding bath oils, which can make the tub slippery. They recommend applying thick moisturisers immediately after bathing to lock in moisture.

Also read | Healthy ageing and hormone balance: What your skin really needs in your 20s, 30s, 40s, and after 50

The NIA also suggests watching for unexplained bruises, especially in areas usually covered by clothing. These could be signs of medication side effects or even elder abuse. Similarly, age spots and skin tags are often harmless, but if you notice any changes in size or colour, consult a doctor.

So, if your mom often mentions itching or discomfort, it could be time for a few simple skincare changes to help her feel better.

5 simple ways to soothe mom’s dry, itchy skin:

• Gift her a rich, fragrance-free moisturiser: A thick, fragrance-free cream or ointment can do wonders for dry, ageing skin. Look for products with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin. These help seal in moisture and repair the skin barrier. You could even put together a Mom’s Spa Basket with her favourite lotion, a soft towel, and soft socks, something she’ll love using after her bath.

• Use a humidifier at home: Dry air, especially from heaters or air conditioning, can make skin feel tight and itchy. A small room humidifier in her bedroom or living area adds moisture back into the air, helping her skin stay hydrated. Plus, it can help with other ageing concerns like dry eyes or sinus discomfort.

• Switch to gentle bath products: Many older moms grew up using bar soaps and strong perfumes that can be too harsh for ageing skin. Try switching her to gentle, hydrating cleansers labeled: for sensitive skin or soap-free. Encourage her to take warm (not hot) showers and keep them short. Adding a non-slip bath mat or shower seat can also make her bathing routine safer and more relaxing.

• Help her stay hydrated: Older adults often drink less water, sometimes forgetting until they feel thirsty. But proper hydration is essential for keeping skin healthy from the inside out. Encourage her to sip water during the day. If she finds plain water boring, infuse it with lemon, mint, or fruit slices. Even herbal teas or water-rich foods like cucumbers and oranges can make a difference.

• Add skin check-ins to her routine: While most dry patches and spots are harmless, it’s important to keep an eye on any changes. Make it a habit, perhaps once a month, to check for any new bruises, rashes, or skin growths, especially in hard-to-see places like her back or behind her legs. You can make it casual and caring, maybe while helping her apply lotion or after a relaxing foot soak. It’s a simple gesture that shows love while also looking out for her health.