What should be done if an elderly person's face develops sores that are becoming ulcerated?

Sores and ulceration on the face of elderly individuals may result from skin aging and fragility, improper care, bacterial folliculitis, secondary infection of eczema, or contact dermatitis. These conditions can be improved through enhanced protection, proper skincare, and medical treatment. Seek prompt medical attention if ulcers spread, discharge pus, or are accompanied by fever.

1. Skin Aging and Fragility: With age, elderly people lose collagen, leading to weakened skin barrier function and reduced resistance. Even minor friction or irritation can cause skin damage and sores, which heal slowly once ulcerated. It is recommended to avoid facial friction or trauma, use a gentle facial cleanser daily, and promptly apply moisturizing and skin-repairing creams.

2. Improper Skincare: Over-cleansing the face or using irritating skincare products can damage the skin barrier, leading to skin breakdown, infection, and sores, often accompanied by redness and pain. Use non-irritating, mild skincare products, gently pat the face dry after washing, and avoid vigorous rubbing.

3. Bacterial Folliculitis: Bacterial invasion of hair follicles on the face causes inflammation, resulting in red papules that develop into pustules and eventually rupture, accompanied by mild itching or pain. Under medical guidance, topical medications such as mupirocin ointment, erythromycin ointment, or oral cephalexin capsules may be used to relieve symptoms.

4. Secondary Infection of Eczema: Recurrent facial eczema can lead to skin breaks that become infected by bacteria, causing redness, papules, erosion, and oozing, along with intense itching. Under a doctor’s supervision, medications such as desonide cream, fusidic acid cream, or loratadine tablets may help alleviate discomfort.

5. Contact Dermatitis: Exposure to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or irritating cosmetics triggers skin inflammation, which may worsen and lead to skin breakdown and ulceration, accompanied by burning and itching. As directed by a physician, calamine lotion, hydrocortisone butyrate cream, or cetirizine hydrochloride tablets may be used to improve symptoms.

Maintain facial cleanliness and dryness, avoid scratching affected areas, wear loose, breathable cotton clothing, follow a light diet rich in vitamin-containing foods, and maintain regular sleep patterns to support skin healing and minimize adverse irritations.