Your Skin Through the Ages

Wash your face regularly with a mild cleanser and apply moisturizer with sunscreen religiously.

Pregnancy. About 90 percent of pregnant women develop hyperpigmentation, an overproduction of melanin that produces dark spots. About 70 percent develop melasma or chloasma, dark spots on their face and arms known as the "mask of pregnancy." Both disappear in the months following birth. Additionally, about 90 percent develop stretch marks during late pregnancy as the underlying layers of their skin stretch. Using lotions or creams containing alpha hydroxy acids can help prevent these marks, which never disappear. Pregnancy can also affect existing skin conditions. Your acne and eczema may get worse while pregnant, while psoriasis may improve.

Perimenopause and menopause. As you move into the years just before and after menopause, expect to see not only the age-related changes in your skin already discussed, but more facial hair, as well, due to hormonal changes and increases in androgen hormones. African- American women and women of Mediterranean and Arab descent are more likely to have this problem, says Maryland dermatologist Elizabeth A. Liotta, MD. Women may also notice larger pores, the result of collagen breakdown. Although the use of hormone therapy has its pros and cons, women who take supplemental estrogen generally find their skin feels smoother and less dry, says Cleveland dermatologist Amy H. Kassouf, MD, of University Dermatologists, Inc.

Elderly skin. Many elderly people develop skin lesions or growths. Most are harmless age spots, but some may be precursors to skin cancer.

related articles

related conditions

Your Skin Through the Ages