Does Dry Skin Cause Wrinkles? The Answer Might Surprise You

There are a lot of myths circulating in the skin-care world, but one of the biggest is that dry skin causes wrinkles. Newsflash, it doesn’t and that’s why we’re setting the facts straight on the connection between dry skin and wrinkles. Find out where the skin-care misinformation comes from and get some helpful tips on how to prevent signs of aging. 

Is There a Connection Between Dry Skin and Wrinkles?

Here’s the deal: dry skin doesn’t cause wrinkles. The reason why it’s a common misconception is because dry skin can accentuate common skin concerns related to aging. When skin is dry, skin concerns like wrinkling, creping, sagging and flaking appear exaggerated because it lacks moisture. 

“People with dry skin may show the signs of aging earlier than their oilier skin friends because dry skin needs hydration and moisturizers to soften the fine lines from aging,” says board certified dermatologist Dr. Susan Van Dyke. When skin is moisturized or oily, wrinkles are less prominent because the skin is hydrated and therefore appears plump and smooth. 

If you experience dry skin, it’s important to apply generous amounts of moisturizer. Also, try using thick formulas, which tend to be more moisturizing. We like the Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Night Cream because it’s a rich, comforting night cream that visibly lifts and tightens the skin for a firmer, smoother complexion by morning. 

So What Does Cause Wrinkles?

While a dry complexion isn’t a culprit of wrinkle formation, there are a handful of genetic factors and environmental aggressors that can wreak havoc on your skin, including the below. 

UV Exposure

We know you love a sunkissed glow, but baking under the sun — even if it’s just for a few months a year — can leave long-lasting, negative effects on your skin. The UVA and UVB rays accelerate the breakdown of collagen and the premature development of wrinkles and sagging. Make sure you apply (and reapply!) generous amounts of sunscreen to your face every day, no matter the season. We love the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free Sunscreen SPF 60 during the summer because it reduces excess shine and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. 

If you’re not willing to give up your summer tan just yet, reach for a self-tanner, like the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Serum or Tan Luxe Illuminating Self Tan Drops, which give you a gorgeous bronzed glow without the sun damage. 

Pollution

Pollution can be a serious aggressor when it comes to aging, especially if you live in the city. From urban smog to second-hand smoke, pollution — specifically free radicals — can contribute to clogged pores, breakouts and a loss of collagen. Sunscreen and antioxidant serums work to reduce the unwanted effects of city pollution. We recommend using Kiehl’s Cilantro and Orange Extract Pollutant Defending Mask to help strengthen skin against environmental aggressors. 

Natural Aging

Aging is a natural part of life. As time passes, your skin loses moisture and decreases its collagen and elastin production— two key components that make skin appear plump and youthful. Menopause can also cause many women to experience a deficiency in their main estrogenic hormone, B-Estradiol, which can cause a breakdown in the supportive fat that lies beneath the skin’s surface. The result is an increase in skin’s sagging and wrinkling. Laugh lines and smile lines will also become more prominent with aging. That being said, you can stock up on anti-aging formulas, and retinol creams like SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 Face Cream that improve the appearance of visible signs of aging and pores.

Read More: 

6 Things That Age Your Skin Prematurely

The Ultimate Anti-Aging Body-Care Routine

The 7-Step Anti-Aging Hand-Care Routine You Need to Try