Denver Drip: Altitude AC Stealing Skin Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

December 30, 2025

The mirror doesn’t lie, or does it? Here in Denver, Colorado, that reflection might be showing more than just your genetics. The relentless sun, the arid air, and the sheer altitude conspire to accelerate the aging process, leaving many Denverites battling premature wrinkles and dry, lackluster skin. But fear not, fellow Mile High residents! A proactive skincare routine, tailored to our unique environment, can help you combat these effects and maintain a youthful glow.

Denver’s high altitude means less atmosphere to filter out harmful UV rays. This translates to increased sun exposure, even on cloudy days. Sun damage is the number one cause of premature aging, leading to wrinkles, sunspots, and a loss of elasticity.

• Solution: Sunscreen is non-negotiable.

• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

• Apply it liberally every morning, even when it’s cloudy.

• Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

• Don’t forget often-neglected areas like your ears, neck, and the back of your hands.

Many Denver residents make the mistake of only applying sunscreen when they plan to be outside for extended periods. This is a critical error. Daily, consistent use is key to protecting your skin from the cumulative effects of sun damage.

The dry climate in Denver sucks moisture from your skin, leading to dehydration, flakiness, and the appearance of fine lines. This “Denver Drip,” as some locals call it, is a constant battle.

• Solution: Hydration, both inside and out, is crucial.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses.

• Invest in a good quality moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, which help to attract and retain moisture.

• Consider using a humidifier, especially during the dry winter months. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, helping to keep your skin hydrated.

A common pitfall is relying solely on topical moisturizers. While they are important, they can only do so much if you’re not adequately hydrated from within. Think of your skin like a plant; it needs water from the roots to thrive.

Here’s a sample skincare routine tailored for Denver residents:

1. Morning:

   • Cleanse with a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
   • Apply a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid.
   • Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
   • Apply a moisturizer.

2. Evening:

   • Remove makeup with a gentle makeup remover.
   • Cleanse with a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
   • Apply a retinol serum (start with a low concentration and gradually increase as tolerated). Retinol helps to stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
   • Apply a rich moisturizer.

3. Weekly:

   • Exfoliate with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.

Product Recommendations (Available at Denver Retailers):

• Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 (available at many dermatologists’ offices and online retailers).
• Moisturizer: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (available at most drugstores).
• Hyaluronic Acid Serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (available at Ulta and online).
• Retinol Serum: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream (available at most drugstores).

Don’t fall into the trap of using harsh, stripping cleansers. These can further dehydrate your skin and exacerbate the effects of the dry climate. Opt for gentle, hydrating formulas that cleanse without stripping away essential oils.

Consulting with a Denver-based dermatologist is highly recommended. They can assess your skin type and recommend a personalized skincare routine that addresses your specific needs and concerns. They can also provide guidance on the use of prescription-strength retinoids and other advanced treatments.

Many people are hesitant to use retinol because they’ve heard it can be irritating. While it’s true that retinol can cause some initial dryness and redness, these side effects are usually temporary and can be minimized by starting with a low concentration and gradually increasing as tolerated. It’s also important to use a good moisturizer and sunscreen when using retinol.

Denver’s unique environment presents specific challenges to maintaining healthy, youthful skin. By understanding these challenges and adopting a proactive skincare routine that includes sun protection, hydration, and the strategic use of humidifiers, you can combat the effects of accelerated aging and keep your skin looking its best. Remember, consistency is key. Make skincare a daily habit, and you’ll be rewarded with a healthy, radiant complexion for years to come.