It's not that "dry skin causes wrinkles" in a direct sense. It's that a compromised skin barrier leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), chronic inflammation, impaired repair, and greater susceptibility to environmental damage. Dry skin also makes fine lines and wrinkles look more pronounced because the skin lacks water and elasticity.

Healthy skin reflects light differently. It looks smoother, more hydrated, and more resilient. Skin that's chronically dry or has a damaged barrier often appears dull, rough, crepey, and can make fine lines look much more noticeable — even when the wrinkles themselves haven't actually gotten deeper.