Denver AC: Dry Air, Damaged Skin Biome?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

August 1, 2025

It’s not just the altitude; it’s the air itself. Denver’s mile-high status is famous, but the combination of that altitude with the arid climate and near-constant AC use creates a perfect storm for skin problems. We’re not just talking about dry skin; we’re talking about a disruption of your skin’s delicate ecosystem.

The problem isn’t just dryness; it’s a microbiome imbalance.

Denver’s dry air, exacerbated by air conditioning, sucks moisture from your skin. This leads to a cascade of issues, from eczema flare-ups to accelerated aging. But the real culprit is the disruption of the skin’s microbiome – the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that live on your skin and play a crucial role in its health.

Think of your skin’s microbiome as a rainforest. A diverse and thriving ecosystem keeps everything in balance. Dry air and AC are like deforestation, wiping out beneficial microbes and allowing harmful ones to flourish.

Here’s how prolonged AC use in Denver messes with your skin:

Reduced Humidity: AC units pull moisture from the air, creating an extremely dry environment. Denver’s already low humidity levels plummet further.
Microbiome Disruption: The dry air favors certain types of bacteria over others, leading to an imbalance. This can trigger inflammation and weaken the skin’s barrier function.
Increased Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL): A compromised skin barrier allows more water to evaporate from your skin, leading to dehydration and dryness.
Eczema Flare-Ups: Individuals prone to eczema find that the dry air and microbiome imbalance exacerbate their condition, leading to itchy, inflamed skin.
Premature Aging: Chronic dehydration and inflammation contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, accelerating the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

So, what can a Denver resident do to combat this? It’s not about ditching the AC entirely (let’s be real, summers here are brutal). It’s about mitigating its effects and restoring balance to your skin’s microbiome.

Strategy 1: Hydration, Inside and Out

This isn’t just about drinking eight glasses of water a day (though that helps). It’s about strategic hydration.

Hyaluronic Acid Serums: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin immediately after showering or washing your face. This helps draw moisture into the skin. Look for products readily available at Target or Ulta in the Denver metro area. The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a great, affordable option.
Occlusive Moisturizers: Follow your hyaluronic acid serum with a rich, occlusive moisturizer. This creates a barrier that prevents water from evaporating. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a classic choice, easily found at any Denver drugstore.
Internal Hydration: Add electrolytes to your water, especially after exercising or spending time outdoors. This helps your body retain fluids more effectively. Nuun tablets are a popular choice and available at most King Soopers.
Humidifiers: Run a humidifier, especially in your bedroom at night. Aim for a humidity level of around 40-50%. A cool-mist humidifier is generally recommended.

Strategy 2: Optimizing Indoor Humidity

A humidifier is a good start, but let’s get strategic.

Monitor Humidity Levels: Invest in a hygrometer to track the humidity in your home. You can find affordable options at hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in Denver.
Targeted Humidification: Focus on humidifying the rooms where you spend the most time, such as your bedroom and living room.
Strategic Plant Placement: Certain houseplants, like snake plants and spider plants, can help increase humidity levels naturally. Plus, they purify the air! You can find a wide selection at local nurseries like Tagawa Gardens in Centennial.
Avoid Over-Cooling: Don’t crank the AC down too low. The lower the temperature, the more moisture the AC removes from the air.

Strategy 3: Microbiome-Friendly Skincare

This is where things get interesting. It’s not just about moisturizing; it’s about feeding the good bacteria on your skin.

Probiotic Skincare: Look for skincare products containing prebiotics and probiotics. These ingredients help nourish and support the growth of beneficial microbes. Look for brands like Mother Dirt, which are becoming increasingly available online.
Gentle Cleansers: Avoid harsh soaps and cleansers that strip the skin of its natural oils. Opt for gentle, sulfate-free cleansers. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a reliable and affordable option.
Avoid Over-Exfoliating: Excessive exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s microbiome. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week.
Consider a Skin Microbiome Test: For a more personalized approach, consider getting a skin microbiome test. This can help you identify specific imbalances and tailor your skincare routine accordingly. While not widely available locally, online services offer at-home testing kits.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:

Over-Moisturizing: While hydration is key, over-moisturizing can actually weaken the skin’s barrier function. Use a moisturizer that’s appropriate for your skin type and avoid applying too much.
Ignoring Indoor Air Quality: Dust, allergens, and pollutants can further irritate the skin. Invest in an air purifier to improve indoor air quality.
Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals in your home, such as strong cleaning products. These can disrupt the skin’s microbiome and exacerbate dryness.
Not Adjusting Your Routine Seasonally: Your skin’s needs change with the seasons. Adjust your skincare routine accordingly, using heavier moisturizers in the winter and lighter ones in the summer.
Assuming All “Natural” Products are Good: “Natural” doesn’t always mean microbiome-friendly. Some essential oils, for example, can be irritating to sensitive skin. Always patch-test new products before applying them to your entire face.

Real-World Denver Scenario:

Imagine you’re a teacher at Denver Public Schools. You spend your days in a classroom with the AC blasting, trying to keep your students comfortable. By the end of the day, your skin feels tight, itchy, and irritated.

Here’s a practical plan:

Classroom Humidifier: Bring a small, personal humidifier to your classroom.
Hydration Station: Keep a water bottle filled with electrolytes on your desk and sip throughout the day.
Mid-Day Moisture Boost: Keep a travel-sized hyaluronic acid serum and moisturizer in your bag and apply them during your lunch break.
Evening Repair: At home, use a gentle cleanser, followed by a probiotic serum and a rich, occlusive moisturizer.

By implementing these strategies, you can combat the drying effects of AC and maintain a healthy, balanced skin microbiome, even in Denver’s challenging climate. It’s about understanding the unique environmental factors at play and tailoring your approach accordingly. Don’t just treat the symptoms; address the root cause. Your skin will thank you for it.