Dehydration or aging: how to understand why wrinkles appeared at 40

Some wrinkles don’t mean we’re not 18 anymore, they just indicate that our skin is dehydrated. So consider small wrinkles as the first signal that it’s time to rethink your beauty routine.

Dehydrated and dry skin looks dull and also tends to develop fine superficial wrinkles. The first place to pay attention to is the area at the corners of the eyes where crow’s feet form. “They can be the first sign of dehydration,” says famed esthetician Joanna Vargas.

Anthony Yoon, a physician and plastic surgeon, says this is especially true for people in their 30s and 40s: fine lines on the forehead, under the eyes and in the nasolabial folds are usually the result of dehydration of the skin, and not aging. However, according to experts, dehydration should not be fought only for aesthetic effect.

As Zion Koh Lamm, MD explains, chronic dry skin leads to inflammation, which in turn causes wrinkles. “People don’t realize it, but dehydration can lead to premature aging,” says the expert. To solve the problem, she advises reconsidering the skincare regimen – switch to intensive moisturizing products or add hyaluronic acid serum to your beauty routine.

In the event that fine wrinkles have become permanent, Yun recommends paying attention to anti-aging cosmetics. “As you age, your skin changes not only because of dehydration. Moisturizing can temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles, but it won’t completely solve the problem. Use retinoids and vitamin C, exfoliate, consider non-invasive procedures such as microneedling or IPL rejuvenation to reverse aging,” she says.

Read also: How to get glowing skin? The secrets of a Hollywood beautician

Remember: the skin itself will tell you what it needs. If it’s inflamed, it needs barrier support, brightening antioxidants will help deal with dull color. If small wrinkles appear on the face, it’s probably time to increase hydration – both inside and out.