Using Way More Moisturizer Lately? Here’s the Real Reason Your Skin’s Thirstier Than Ever!

As you've gotten older, you may have observed that your skin has become drier. You’re not alone in this experience.

“Nearly everyone’s skin becomes drier with age,” said Dr. Michelle Henry, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. “Typically, we see dryness beginning, especially for women, during the perimenopausal period between the ages of 40 and 50.” However, this change occurs in everyone, regardless of gender.

The degree of dryness varies. “While everyone experiences some level of increased skin dryness as they age, certain individuals are more predisposed to it,” explained Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, a board-certified dermatologist at Premier Dermatology in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

“Certain genetic factors and ethnic backgrounds are more prone to these changes, though your lifestyle choices and skincare practices significantly influence how you personally experience [skin dryness with age],” added Dr. Deanne Mraz, a board-certified dermatologist and president and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, Connecticut.

So, why does skin inevitably become drier as we age? We asked these three dermatologists to explain the science.

The Science Behind Dry Skin “As we age, our skin thins and weakens. Both the epidermis and dermis become thinner, blood vessels more fragile, and the skin barrier less robust,” Zubritzky said. “This leads to more sensitive, drier skin as the skin barrier can no longer retain water as it did in younger years.”

This is due to various biological factors. “Oil glands, which naturally add oil and moisture to our skin, decrease in number as we age. This leads to dehydration, causing itching and dryness,” Zubritsky noted. “Additionally, our skin becomes less efficient at cell turnover with age, so we don’t shed old, dead skin cells as effectively as we did when we were younger. These retained cells can make the skin look flaky, dull, and dry.”

Hormonal changes related to aging also play a role. “Estrogen is crucial for oil production and overall skin hydration,” Henry explained. “As estrogen levels decline [with age], the skin becomes thinner, drier, and less elastic.” This concept also applies to testosterone — as levels decrease, studies indicate that skin elasticity worsens.

Lifestyle Habits That Increase Age-Related Skin Dryness Those who spend extensive time in the sun, especially without protection, are likely to experience more pronounced skin dryness later in life.

“Sun damage accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, weakening the skin barrier, which is essential for maintaining hydration levels,” said Mraz, who advises using SPF 30 or higher daily and avoiding tanning beds.

Stress can also exacerbate skin dryness. “Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels,” Henry said. “When cortisol is high, it hinders the skin’s ability to retain moisture.”

How To Slow Or Lessen Age-Related Skin Dryness If you’re not yet experiencing age-related dryness, adopting good skincare practices can help reduce the extent of future dryness. “Start with preventive and reparative skincare,” said Mraz, whose essentials include chemical exfoliants, antioxidant serums, moisturizers, and SPF.

She recommends incorporating a vitamin C serum to “prevent oxidative damage from environmental pollutants,” along with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer and a daily mineral SPF 30 or higher.

Mraz also suggested adding retinol: “Starting retinol in your 20s can offer long-term benefits.”

Other beneficial skincare ingredients include ceramides, glycerin, and squalane, noted Henry. “These mimic our natural moisturizing factors and help the skin function optimally. Staying hydrated by drinking water and limiting dehydrating substances like excess coffee, alcohol, and caffeinated teas is also important.”

For those with oily skin, the age-related dryness might actually bring a more balanced skin condition, added Henry.

Alleviating Skin Dryness That’s Already Set In If you’re already dealing with age-related skin dryness, consider adjusting your skincare routine to manage the symptoms.

“Look for thick, creamy moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and certain vitamins to protect the skin barrier and prevent water loss,” Zubritsky advised. “Avoid harsh, drying soaps and opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers. Also, steer clear of irritants, like laundry detergents with dyes and fragrances.”

Lifestyle adjustments are equally impactful. “Drink plenty of water and consume water-rich foods and omega fatty acids,” Mraz said. “Using a cool mist humidifier in rooms where you spend the most time can add moisture to the air, which your skin can absorb.”

For in-office treatments, Mraz suggested a HydraFacial to “thoroughly cleanse the skin while deeply hydrating it.”