Bruises

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talkhealth
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by talkhealth on Mon Mar 22, 2021 12:06 pm

Bruises

My elderly parent’s skin is paper thin and he bruises very easily, is there anything you would advise I can do to look after it better?
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Dr Sarita Singh
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Joined: Thu Mar 15, 2018 5:46 pm
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by Dr Sarita Singh on Thu Mar 25, 2021 9:48 pm

Re: Bruises

Skin bruises more easily as we age because the structure of the skin becomes less robust and thinner. This renders the skin fragile and susceptible to even minor injuries, particularly on the lower legs. Easy bruising is more common in patients who take blood thinning medications or oral steroids. Those with varicose veins and poor circulation are even more susceptible.

I would recommend that your parents should use an emollient that contains either colloidal oatmeal, or urea at least twice a day to afford additional mechanical protection from minor knocks and bumps (Aveeno and Eucerin are good brands). I would also recommend a soap substitute or fragrance-free oil when washing, as normal soaps and shower gel can strip the skin of its natural protective oils. The most important thing is for your parents to keep their skin very well moisturised. If there are visible varicose veins then low grade compression stockings might be beneficial. I hope that this information is helpful.
Dr Sarita Singh
Consultant Dermatologist & British Skin Foundation Spokesperson

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