A: Itchy, dry skin is a common complaint among older individuals. As skin ages, it naturally produces less oil. Also, skin becomes more sensitive and may start reacting to wool clothing and common household products, including fabric softeners, detergents and soaps. If you need help identifying the triggers of your itchy, dry skin or desire a more effective treatment, consult a dermatologist.

A: Absolutely! According to Oregon Health and Science University, mature skin is even more susceptible to sun damage. In fact, the older the skin, the less able it is to repair damage and heal a burn.

A: Continue applying sunscreen every day. Even if you’ve been skimping on sun protection, it’s never too late to start wearing sunscreen. Also important, visit your dermatologist at least once a year for a skin cancer screening and to discuss effective anti-aging treatments.

A: It’s extremely important to sterilize glass jars used to store cosmetic products to prevent the growth of bacteria. Luckily, the process is quick and easy: (1) Set the glass jars in a saucepan with just enough water to cover them and bring to a boil for five minutes; (2) Using tongs, remove jars from heat and place on a cooking tray; (3) Put the tray in a warm, pre-heated oven to dry; (4) Once dry, remove the tray and allow the jars to cool on a clean surface.