Improvements in health care together with superior standards of housing, nutrition and hygiene have led to an increase in average life expectancy, with a fifth of the UK population being over 60 years of age. Skin problems are common in elderly people: one study of 20 000 non-institutionalized US citizens found a significant dermatological problem in 40% of those aged 65 to 74 years. This review aims to discuss some common and important dermatological conditions seen in the elderly population and provide guidance on diagnosis and management.