There are multiple reasons why the skin becomes dry, cracks, and develops wrinkles as we age.

First, the outermost layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, gradually becomes thinner and less dense with age. This weakens the skin's barrier function, allowing moisture to escape more easily, making the skin dry and rough. At the same time, the sebaceous glands produce less natural oil, which makes the skin more vulnerable to environmental factors. Without enough oil protection, moisture evaporates more quickly, leading to increased dryness and a tight feeling.

In addition, collagen and elastin in the skin decrease with age. These components are crucial for supporting the skin's structure and maintaining its elasticity. The loss of collagen causes the skin to lose support, leading to sagging and wrinkles, while the reduction in elastin makes the skin less firm and elastic, causing wrinkles to become more prominent. The skin's natural moisturizing factors, such as hyaluronic acid, also decrease, further reducing hydration and worsening dryness.

Furthermore, aging skin becomes less resistant to environmental stressors. Factors like ultraviolet (UV) radiation, air pollution, and dry climates can damage the skin more easily, accelerating moisture loss and making wrinkles and dryness more pronounced. Particularly for women, changes in estrogen levels during menopause can affect skin hydration and elasticity, making the skin more prone to dryness and aging.