**Aspen's Air: Is Altitude Drying Lasers' Youth?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe crisp mountain air, the endless sunshine – Denver and Boulder are paradise, right? Well, almost. For those of us undergoing laser treatments, the altitude and dry climate can turn what should be a rejuvenating experience into a skin-parching nightmare. But fear not, fellow Coloradans! With the right strategies and readily available products, you can conquer the dryness and maximize your laser results.
The challenge in Denver and Boulder isn’t just the altitude; it’s the trifecta of high altitude, low humidity, and increased UV exposure. This combination aggressively strips moisture from the skin, hindering the healing process after laser treatments like Fraxel or CO2 resurfacing. This can lead to prolonged redness, increased risk of pigmentation issues, and ultimately, less-than-optimal results.
So, how do we combat this? It starts with a proactive, two-pronged approach: pre-treatment preparation and diligent post-treatment care.
Pre-Treatment Hydration: Laying the Foundation
Think of your skin as a sponge. A dry sponge won’t absorb water easily. Similarly, dehydrated skin won’t respond as well to laser treatments and will struggle to heal. Start hydrating weeks before your procedure.
Internal Hydration is Key: Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces of water daily. Add electrolytes, especially if you’re active. Consider adding a liquid IV packet to your water once a day. You can find these at King Soopers or Sprouts.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum: This humectant draws moisture from the air into your skin. Apply a U.S.-made hyaluronic acid serum twice daily under your moisturizer. Look for brands like The Ordinary (available at Ulta) or Paula’s Choice. Ensure the product is fragrance-free and contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid.
Rich Moisturizer: Seal in the hydration with a thick, emollient moisturizer. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (available at any drugstore) is a solid, affordable option. Its ceramides help repair the skin barrier, crucial for retaining moisture.
Avoid Harsh Exfoliants: Stop using harsh scrubs, retinoids, and AHAs/BHAs at least one week before your treatment. These can further dry out your skin and increase sensitivity.
Post-Treatment Care: Nurturing the Healing Process
This is where the real work begins. Your skin is now in a vulnerable state, and the Colorado climate is ready to pounce.
Gentle Cleansing: Use a very mild, fragrance-free cleanser like Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (widely available). Avoid anything with sulfates or harsh chemicals. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel; don’t rub.
Occlusive Moisturizer: Immediately after cleansing, apply a thick layer of an occlusive moisturizer. Aquaphor Healing Ointment or Vaseline are excellent choices. These create a barrier that prevents moisture loss. Don’t be afraid to look shiny!
Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: This is the most critical step. Laser treatments make your skin extremely sensitive to the sun. Increased UV exposure at high altitude significantly increases the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), those pesky dark spots.
- Mineral Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. These are less irritating than chemical sunscreens. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (available at many dermatology offices and online) is a popular choice.
- Reapplication is Crucial: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors. Set a timer on your phone to remind you.
- Physical Barriers: Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses whenever you’re outside, even on cloudy days. The sun’s rays can penetrate clouds.
Humidifier is Your Best Friend: Invest in a good quality humidifier for your bedroom. This will add moisture to the air while you sleep, helping to combat the dryness. Aim for a humidity level of around 40-50%.
Avoid Hot Showers and Baths: Hot water can further strip moisture from your skin. Opt for lukewarm showers and keep them short.
Skip the Makeup: Avoid wearing makeup for at least a week after your treatment, or until your skin has healed. Makeup can irritate the skin and interfere with the healing process.
Listen to Your Skin: If your skin feels tight, itchy, or irritated, apply more moisturizer. Don’t be afraid to adjust your routine based on your skin’s needs.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Using the Wrong Products: Many skincare products contain ingredients that can irritate or dry out the skin, especially after laser treatments. Avoid products with alcohol, fragrances, dyes, and harsh exfoliants. Stick to gentle, hypoallergenic products.
Not Drinking Enough Water: It’s easy to forget to drink enough water, especially when you’re busy. Carry a water bottle with you and sip on it throughout the day.
Skipping Sunscreen: This is a big one. Many people underestimate the importance of sunscreen, especially on cloudy days. Make sunscreen application a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.
Picking at Your Skin: It’s tempting to pick at peeling skin, but this can lead to scarring and infection. Resist the urge and let your skin heal naturally.
Returning to Active Ingredients Too Soon: Don’t rush back into using retinoids or exfoliating acids. Give your skin ample time to recover before reintroducing these ingredients. Consult with your dermatologist or aesthetician for guidance.
Real-World Scenario: The Weekend Warrior
Let’s say you’re a Denver resident who loves to ski on the weekends. You’ve just had a Fraxel treatment and are itching to hit the slopes. How do you protect your skin?
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Start drinking extra water several days before your ski trip.
- Apply a Thick Layer of Moisturizer: Before heading out, apply a generous layer of CeraVe cream.
- Sunscreen is Your Shield: Apply a mineral sunscreen like EltaMD UV Clear liberally to all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating.
- Physical Protection: Wear a ski mask or balaclava to protect your face from the sun and wind.
- Lip Protection: Don’t forget your lips! Use a lip balm with SPF.
- Post-Skiing Recovery: After skiing, gently cleanse your skin and apply a thick layer of Aquaphor. Use your humidifier overnight.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your favorite activities without compromising your skin’s health.
Laser treatments can be a fantastic way to improve your skin’s appearance, but they require careful planning and diligent aftercare, especially in the challenging climate of Denver and Boulder. By prioritizing hydration, sun protection, and gentle skincare, you can maximize your results and achieve the radiant, healthy skin you deserve. Remember to consult with your dermatologist or aesthetician for personalized recommendations and to address any specific concerns. Now go forth and conquer that Colorado sunshine, beautifully!