Does my skin really age fast if I don't apply lotion right after showering?

Recently, my skin seems to have become much drier than before, so I have been looking into various things.

As a result, I saw that it is good to apply moisturizer before the water completely dries after showering or washing your face.

I used to be the type to apply it only when I remembered at the very end, after showering, drying my hair, getting dressed, and doing various other things.

As a result, at some point, my arms and legs started to turn white and flaky, and I frequently felt a tight sensation on my face after washing it.

I thought it was just because I was getting older, but I became curious if the timing of applying moisturizer might also have an effect.

In particular, I would like to know if there is actually a significant difference between applying it immediately after showering and applying it much later.

I imagine there are many of you who, like me, don't make sure to apply moisturizer right after washing your face. How do you all manage?

If anyone has changed their habit of applying lotion or cream immediately after showering and found their skin to be less dry, I would like to hear about your experience.

I am curious about which product you use, but I am even more curious about exactly when it is best to apply it.

It seems like nothing special, but since it's a habit I do every day, it actually bothers me a little.