To understand the development of wrinkles, you need to know the structure of the skin. There are basically three layers: The epidermis is the top layer of the skin. It renews itself independently in a cycle of around 27 days. The second skin layer is the dermis, also known as the dermis. It contains sweat glands, sebaceous glands and scent glands and is surrounded by a network of collagen fibres and elastin. This interplay of glands and fibres keeps the skin supple, enables it to store water and is responsible for the high stability of the skin. The third layer of skin is the subcutis with its fatty tissue. This layer also helps to store water and moisture.
The three skin layers mentioned above generally function optimally until young adulthood. This is also evident in their appearance: the skin appears wrinkle-free, fresh, plump and vital. It is able to store a lot of water.
Over the years, the skin layers change and perform their tasks more slowly and to a more moderate extent, which continues to diminish. The collagen fibres and elastic fibres are minimised, which is why less moisture can be stored in the skin. Now the visible ageing process begins: the skin loses its elasticity, becomes thinner and drier. The result: wrinkles and sagging tissue.