Once and for all: does moisturizer really prevent wrinkles?

Moisturizer does a very obvious thing, it improves the water content in the outer layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier. When skin is dry, fine lines look sharper, so simply restoring moisture can make skin look smoother. This is not an illusion, it is a logical physiological effect of hydration and a protective layer that reduces water loss. Studies on moisturizers show an improvement in moisture and barrier function indicators, sometimes even after prolonged use, but this still does not mean complete prevention of deep wrinkles.

How did the myth grow? Mainly from the “anti-aging” marketing culture. This term does not require a uniform standard, and a large part of the products are defined as cosmetic rather than medicinal. Meanwhile, people tend to notice an improvement in the appearance of wrinkles after application, and conclude that it “prevented” the wrinkles. The truth is that in many cases it is about reducing dryness and temporarily improving the reflection of light from the skin.

The current medical truth points to three anchors that predict skin aging more than any “normal” moisturizer: sun exposure without protection, smoking, and genetics. If there is one product with consistent and significant evidence in reducing the signs of aging, it is not a basic moisturizer but retinoids, primarily prescription tretinoin, which is considered a standard of care in the field, with evidence of improving fine lines and texture over time. Professional reviews and articles describe it as a leading treatment line in skin rejuvenation, while cosmetic products vary greatly in their quality and concentrations.