Does Moisturizing Prevent Wrinkles? Here’s What You Need to Know

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Nobody likes seeing the tell-tale signs of aging creep up on their face in the form of fine lines and wrinkles, which is why so much time, energy, and money is put into prevention.

When it comes to anti-aging skincare, there are so many types of products out there. Serums, essences, ampoules, masks…the list goes on. However, where does the humble moisturizer fit into all of this? Does the simple act of moisturizing prevent wrinkles, or is there more to it than that? Read on to find out!

What Causes Wrinkles and Sagging Skin?

There are so many different factors that contribute to wrinkles and loose skin, with some of the most common being: 

  • The natural aging process
  • UV rays and sun damage
  • Pollution and other environmental damage
  • Chronic stress
  • Smoking
  • A poor diet

How & Why Does Moisturizer Prevent Wrinkles & Fine Lines? Here are the Benefits of Using a Moisturizer or Lotion to Fight Wrinkles

Not only does a moisturizer deliver a dose of moisture to skin cells, but it also forms a protective seal over the top of the skin. This prevents the skin’s natural moisture from evaporating away, leaving skin cells with access to a greater amount of water.

pretty woman with mirror

Water is essential for your skin cells to function optimally. A constant supply will enable them to protect themselves against skin aging more efficiently than skin that isn’t moisturized.

Moisturized skin also immediately looks plumper, brighter, and more luminous. Skin cells take on a fuller structure and appearance, which means that any fine lines or wrinkles that are already on your skin become less noticeable.

Are Wrinkles Permanent or Can Wrinkled Skin Be Reversed?

So, a moisturizer can help to prevent wrinkles, but can it reverse existing creases too, or are those now permanent?

Unfortunately, unless your moisturizer contains specific anti-aging ingredients, it’s unlikely to do much in terms of reversing your wrinkles. On the plus side, anti-aging moisturizers are easy to find – pick one with a potent formula and even your deep creases will soon start to be smoothed away.

Do Anti-Aging Serums Work? Do Wrinkle Creams Work? Here’s How to Find the Best Over-the-Counter Wrinkle Cream That Really Works

So, how do you pick the best moisturizer? Should you go with an anti-aging serum, a wrinkle cream, or something completely different altogether?

beautiful female

Our recommendation would be to go with what best suits your skin type. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, you need a moisturizer that’s lightweight, so a serum would be perfect for this.

Those with dry skin would benefit from a serum too, but a wrinkle cream layered over the top of this would provide even more benefits.

How to Keep Skin Young & Free of Creases, in Addition to Using Moisturizing Products

A moisturizer will go some way in keeping your skin wrinkle-free, but skincare alone is not enough. Instead, there are a few lifestyle choices that you should also be making in order to maintain your youthful appearance:

  • Stop smoking
  • Cut back on alcohol consumption
  • Improve your diet
  • Always wear SPF

Can Drinking Water Reverse Wrinkles? Here’s How to Rehydrate Your Skin & How to Keep Your Face Hydrated

What about drinking water – will this reverse wrinkles? 

On its own, no. However, just like a moisturizer, water is essential in order for your skin cells to function optimally. This in itself will help to delay skin aging, while making your skin appear plumper so that wrinkles are less visible.

seating lady

In addition to drinking your eight glasses a day, you can also hydrate your skin and face by applying hydrating skincare ingredients. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, and plant oils are all good examples. Some, such as the oils, will hydrate and moisturize your skin.

Hydrate vs Moisturize: What’s the Difference in Dermatology?

In simple terms, hydration refers to water, while moisture refers to oil. Dehydrated skin needs moisture, while dry skin needs oil.

Some moisturizers focus on simply moisturizing the skin, while others both hydrate and moisturize.

FAQ:

Q: How can I stop my skin from aging?

Following a good anti-aging skincare routine while living a healthy lifestyle will stop your skin from aging so quickly.

Q: Does moisturizing make you look younger?

Yes, moisturizing can make you look younger.

Q: Does lack of moisture cause wrinkles?

While a lack of moisture doesn’t cause wrinkles, it can make them more noticeable.

Q: How can I hydrate my skin to prevent wrinkles?

Drinking more water and using hydrating skincare products can help to keep your skin looking young.

Q: Can wrinkles go away?

Yes, it’s possible for wrinkles to go away.

Q: Will a laser skin hydration spa treatment help with wrinkles from eczema?

Some laser treatments can be effective at treating eczema and any associated symptoms. Speak to your doctor or dermatologist for more advice.

Q: Does dry skin cause wrinkles? Does dry skin age faster because of a lack of hydration?

Dry skin doesn’t age faster and doesn’t cause wrinkles. However, wrinkles are much more noticeable on skin that’s dry or dehydrated.

Q: Does acne cause wrinkles or does oily skin age better?

No, acne doesn’t cause wrinkles. In fact, if you have oily skin, then this means that your skin will be well moisturized, which can help to make wrinkles less obvious.

Conclusion: So, Does Moisturizer Stop Wrinkles?

pretty lady with moisturizer

In some ways, yes, moisturizing your skin can help to prevent wrinkles, but only to a certain extent. If you really want to keep your face wrinkle-free for as long as possible, you’ll need to invest in a full-on anti-aging skincare routine, combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Avatar for Megan Foley

Megan has been a freelance writer and editor since 2016. In that time, she’s penned a diverse collection of articles for online publication, with a focus on skincare and beauty. From in-depth product reviews to concise marketing content, Megan is passionate about developing content that informs, entertains, and inspires.