**Denver Dew: Altitude Lies Stealing Vaseline Youth?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 1, 2026

The crisp mountain air, the stunning vistas, the endless sunshine… Denver and its surrounding high-altitude towns like Vail and Aspen are paradise, right? Well, almost. While the lifestyle is undeniably appealing, there’s a silent aggressor constantly attacking your skin: altitude. It’s not just an old wives’ tale; the science is real, and the consequences can be premature aging.

The sun feels stronger here, and that’s because it is. At 5,280 feet (Denver’s elevation), the atmosphere is thinner, meaning less UV radiation is filtered out. For every 1,000 feet you ascend, UV levels increase by roughly 4-5%. So, if you’re hitting the slopes in Vail (8,150 feet) or Aspen (7,908 feet), you’re getting a significant dose of skin-damaging rays.

But it’s not just the sun. The air is drier at higher altitudes. This leads to increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL), meaning your skin loses moisture at a faster rate. Dehydrated skin is more prone to fine lines, wrinkles, and a generally dull appearance.

So, what’s a mountain dweller to do? Sunscreen is crucial, of course, but it’s not the whole story. You need to lock in moisture and create a barrier against the harsh environment. This is where Vaseline, or other similar occlusives, come in.

Vaseline, or petrolatum, is a powerful occlusive. It forms a protective layer on the skin’s surface, preventing water from escaping. Think of it as a shield against the dry, UV-blasted air. It’s not glamorous, but it’s incredibly effective.

Now, before you slather yourself in Vaseline and call it a day, let’s address some common misconceptions and provide a practical guide. Many people believe Vaseline clogs pores. While it can happen, it’s less likely than with other ingredients. The key is to apply it to clean, moisturized skin.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for high-altitude skincare, specifically tailored for Colorado residents:

1. Cleanse: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps that strip your skin of its natural oils.
2. Hydrate: Apply a hyaluronic acid serum. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. In a dry climate, it’s crucial to layer it with an occlusive to prevent that moisture from evaporating.
3. Moisturize: Use a rich, emollient moisturizer. Look for ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, or squalane. These help to repair the skin barrier and provide additional hydration.
4. Protect: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours, especially when outdoors.
5. Seal: Finish with a thin layer of Vaseline or another occlusive like Aquaphor or CeraVe Healing Ointment. Focus on areas that are particularly prone to dryness, such as the face, lips, and hands.

For those tackling Colorado’s famous 14ers (mountains over 14,000 feet), the stakes are even higher. The sun is more intense, the air is drier, and the wind can be brutal. Here’s a layering strategy for extreme conditions:

1. Pre-Hike Prep: The night before, apply a thick layer of Vaseline to your face and lips. This will give your skin a head start on hydration.
2. Base Layer: Apply a hydrating serum and moisturizer as described above.
3. Sun Protection: Use a high-SPF, water-resistant sunscreen. Consider a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they provide broad-spectrum protection and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
4. Occlusive Barrier: Apply a generous layer of Vaseline to your face, lips, and any exposed skin. Don’t be shy!
5. Lip Protection: Use a lip balm with SPF and reapply frequently.
6. Headwear: Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face from the sun.
7. Sunglasses: Protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them with UV-protective sunglasses.

A common mistake is thinking that any moisturizer will do. While some moisturizers are better than others, many lack the occlusive properties needed to truly protect your skin in a high-altitude environment. Lotions, for example, are primarily water-based and evaporate quickly, leaving your skin feeling drier than before.

Another pitfall is neglecting sun protection on cloudy days. UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen even when the sun isn’t shining.

How does Vaseline compare to other popular moisturizers? While products like hyaluronic acid serums and lightweight lotions are great for hydration, they don’t provide the same level of protection as an occlusive. Think of them as working with Vaseline, not instead of it.

For active individuals in high-altitude areas, consider products specifically designed for outdoor use. Many brands offer moisturizers and sunscreens that are water-resistant, sweat-resistant, and formulated to withstand harsh conditions.

The key takeaway is that high-altitude skincare is not a one-size-fits-all approach. You need to understand the specific challenges posed by the environment and tailor your routine accordingly. Don’t fall for marketing hype or generic advice. Focus on science-backed solutions that address the root causes of skin aging in high-altitude environments.

So, embrace the Colorado lifestyle, but don’t let the altitude steal your youthful glow. With a little knowledge and the right products, you can enjoy the mountains without sacrificing your skin. Remember, Vaseline isn’t just for chapped lips; it’s a powerful weapon in the fight against premature aging in the Rockies.