Sun protection for aging skin: Using Medicare Advantage OTC benefits

In retirement years, sunshine and warmer climates may call out to some people, who might find themselves relaxing on the golf course or beach, or simply spending more long afternoons in the garden.

But it’s important for people to remember that skin changes over time. While sunshine can provide certain health benefits, it can also damage skin, so the right kind of skin protection is key. Proper protection can help reduce the appearance of aging and help reduce someone’s risk of developing skin cancer.

Medicare Advantage over-the-counter (OTC) benefits* may cover sun protection products, so people who are eligible can consider products that help protect their skin.

In this article:

How to care for skin as it ages

As skin ages, it becomes thinner, which allows ultraviolet (UV) light to penetrate more deeply. The skin’s natural ability to repair damage slows down, too. As a result, skin can become more susceptible to injury from the sun, including dark spots and some more dangerous conditions.

To help keep skin looking healthy, people can:

• Avoid smoking
• Manage stress levels
• Wash their face gently

Using a gentle skin cleanser, a moisturizer every day and a water-resistant sunscreen that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher also helps. Sunglasses, sun hats and sun protective clothing likewise can help protect the skin when someone is outdoors.

People should also get into the habit of checking their skin on a regular basis for any changes, such as moles, new spots or blemishes. If there’s anything unusual, folks should see a dermatologist. It’s also a good idea to get a checkup by a dermatologist at least once a year even if someone doesn’t notice any changes themselves.

Which medications may cause sun sensitivity?

Certain OTC and prescription medications can cause photosensitivity, which means they can make the skin extra sensitive to the sun’s UV rays. These include some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as well as medications used to treat arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), high blood pressure or certain infections. Some topical medications may also increase their risk of a sunburn.

If someone is unsure about whether a medication they’re taking causes photosensitivity, they should ask their health care provider or a pharmacist.

OTC sun protection products

Another important thing people can do to protect their skin: Use sunscreen every day. A Medicare Advantage OTC benefit may cover this item. If someone is unsure about how to use an OTC benefit — which is included in about 80 percent of Medicare Advantage plans — they can check out this guide.

Sunscreen comes in different formulations, including some that are resistant to sweat and water and others for sensitive skin. Most people should apply a water-resistant broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to exposed skin every day. While people should always follow the directions on the label, in general, sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Staying out of the sun when its rays are the strongest (between 10 AM and 2 PM) and using protective clothing are also important when it comes to protecting against the sun.

Soothing burned skin

A sunburn can happen no matter how careful someone is. Luckily, if minor sunburn does occur, many OTC products can help support relief.

What people should do is look for after-sun or other topical products containing hydrocortisone or aloe vera. These can help soothe skin as it heals. People should avoid products that contain "-caine" ingredients, such as benzocaine or lidocaine. These may irritate the skin or cause an allergic reaction.

Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen — products often covered by an OTC benefit — may help people manage pain. And of course, avoid more sun exposure until the skin heals.

If the burns are accompanied by a high fever (101 degrees Fahrenheit) or extreme pain for more than 48 hours or dehydration, or if the burns are severe and cover more than 15 percent of the body, people should seek medical attention right away.