Denver's Collagen: Altitude Air Crashing Hair Lasers?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 9, 2026

Have you noticed that Denver’s dry air and intense sun seem to age skin faster than elsewhere? It’s not just your imagination. The Mile High City presents a unique set of challenges to maintaining youthful, healthy skin, especially when combined with the popularity of collagen-depleting laser treatments. But don’t despair! This guide provides a Denver-specific roadmap to combat collagen loss and keep your skin looking its best.

Denver’s unique environment significantly impacts collagen production. The high altitude means less oxygen, which can hinder collagen synthesis. The dry air sucks moisture from the skin, leading to collagen breakdown. And the increased UV radiation accelerates collagen degradation.

Let’s tackle these challenges head-on, starting with diet.

Collagen production requires specific nutrients. Focus on foods rich in proline, glycine, and lysine – the building blocks of collagen. Bone broth is a fantastic source, but if you’re not a fan, try chicken skin (yes, really!), eggs, and dairy.

Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis. Load up on citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens. Denver’s farmers markets, like the South Pearl Street Farmers Market, offer a great selection of fresh, local produce.

Copper is another essential nutrient. Include foods like shellfish, nuts, and seeds in your diet.

A common mistake is relying solely on collagen supplements without addressing overall nutrition. Supplements are helpful, but they’re not a magic bullet. Think of them as a complement to a healthy, collagen-boosting diet.

Now, let’s talk about targeted skincare.

Topical collagen creams are often ineffective because collagen molecules are too large to penetrate the skin. Instead, focus on products that stimulate your skin’s own collagen production.

Retinoids are a powerhouse ingredient. They stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin texture. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase it to avoid irritation, especially in Denver’s dry climate.

Vitamin C serums are another excellent choice. They protect against free radical damage and boost collagen production. Look for serums containing L-ascorbic acid, the most effective form of Vitamin C.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can signal to your skin to produce more collagen. Look for products containing peptides like Matrixyl or copper peptides.

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin. This is especially important in Denver’s dry climate. Use a hyaluronic acid serum after cleansing and before applying your moisturizer.

Don’t forget sunscreen! UV radiation is the biggest enemy of collagen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

A pitfall to avoid is using too many active ingredients at once. This can irritate your skin and hinder collagen production. Introduce new products gradually and pay attention to how your skin reacts.

Next, let’s consider lifestyle adjustments.

Hydration is key in Denver’s dry climate. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

Consider using a humidifier, especially in your bedroom. This will help to keep your skin hydrated while you sleep.

Avoid smoking. Smoking damages collagen and elastin, leading to premature aging.

Get enough sleep. Your body repairs and regenerates collagen while you sleep. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night.

Manage stress. Stress can contribute to collagen breakdown. Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature. Red Rocks Amphitheatre offers stunning views and a chance to de-stress.

Now, let’s address laser treatments.

Laser treatments can be effective for skin rejuvenation, but they also damage collagen. It’s crucial to optimize collagen production before and after these treatments.

Consult with a board-certified dermatologist in the Denver area who has experience with laser treatments and collagen stimulation. They can recommend the best treatment options for your skin type and concerns. Dr. Emily Wise at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Denver is a great example.

Before your laser treatment, focus on boosting collagen production through diet, skincare, and lifestyle adjustments. This will help to prepare your skin for the treatment and minimize collagen loss.

After your laser treatment, follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully. This may include using specific skincare products, avoiding sun exposure, and staying hydrated.

Consider taking a collagen supplement after your laser treatment to help your skin rebuild collagen. Look for a supplement that contains hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are easily absorbed by the body.

A common mistake is neglecting post-laser care. This can lead to complications and hinder collagen regeneration. Follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully and be patient.

Altitude-specific collagen supplements can be beneficial. Look for supplements that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, which can help to protect your skin from the damaging effects of high altitude.

Consider supplements containing pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ). Some research suggests PQQ may stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, potentially improving cellular energy and collagen production in oxygen-deprived environments like Denver.

Remember, consistency is key. Maintaining youthful skin in Denver requires a holistic approach that combines diet, skincare, lifestyle adjustments, and proper care before and after laser treatments. By following these tips, you can combat collagen loss and keep your skin looking its best, even in the face of Denver’s unique environmental challenges.

Don’t expect overnight results. It takes time to rebuild collagen. Be patient and consistent with your efforts, and you will see a difference.

Finally, listen to your skin. If something doesn’t feel right, stop using it and consult with a dermatologist. Your skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.