Denver Dry Air: Altitude Stealing Youth HA?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe mirror doesn’t lie, or so they say. But in Denver, it might be telling a slightly exaggerated tale. It’s not just the passing of time etching lines and stealing moisture; it’s the very air we breathe, or rather, the lack of moisture in the air we breathe. Denver’s altitude and arid climate conspire to accelerate skin aging and dehydration, a phenomenon I like to call “altitude stealing youth.”
Denver’s dry air is a relentless thief. It saps moisture from your skin at an alarming rate. This isn’t just about feeling a little parched; it’s about long-term damage. Chronic dehydration leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and a dull complexion.
The high altitude exacerbates the problem. The thinner atmosphere means less protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Every day is like spending extra time at the beach, without the ocean breeze to compensate.
So, how do we fight back? We need a multi-pronged approach, focusing on both internal and external hydration, and targeted skincare.
First, let’s talk about humidifiers. They are not all created equal. That cheap one from Walgreens might add some moisture, but it’s likely breeding bacteria and spewing mineral dust into your air.
I recommend investing in a good quality evaporative humidifier. These use a wick filter to trap impurities and release clean, humidified air. Look for models with antimicrobial features and easy-to-clean components. The Honeywell HCM-350 Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier is a solid choice, readily available at most Denver-area retailers like Target and King Soopers. It’s effective, relatively quiet, and the UV light helps kill bacteria in the water.
However, even the best humidifier is useless if you don’t maintain it. Change the filter regularly (every 1-3 months, depending on usage) and clean the unit weekly with a diluted bleach solution to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Neglecting this is a common pitfall, turning your humidifier into a health hazard.
Next, let’s address internal hydration. Eight glasses of water a day is a good starting point, but in Denver, you need more. Aim for at least 10-12 glasses, and consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially after exercise or outdoor activities.
Electrolyte tablets or powders can help your body absorb and retain water more effectively. Look for options with a good balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Avoid sugary sports drinks, which can actually dehydrate you further. I personally use LMNT Recharge (unflavored) because it doesn’t have any artificial sweeteners or colors. You can find it online or at some specialty health food stores in Denver, like Natural Grocers.
Now, let’s move on to skincare. The key is to focus on products that hydrate and protect the skin barrier. This means avoiding harsh cleansers and exfoliants that can strip away natural oils.
Instead, opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin. Ceramides help to repair and strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss. Glycerin is another humectant that also helps to soften and smooth the skin.
For Denver’s dry climate, I recommend layering your skincare products. Start with a hydrating serum, followed by a moisturizer, and then an occlusive balm or oil to seal in the moisture.
A great example of a localized product review is Colorado Hemp Honey’s Face & Body Balm. It’s made with locally sourced hemp and honey, both known for their moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a bit on the heavier side, so it’s best used at night or on particularly dry areas. You can find it at many farmers’ markets and local shops in Denver.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate the atmosphere and damage your skin. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and apply it liberally every day, even in winter. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
Don’t forget about your lips! They are particularly vulnerable to dehydration in Denver’s dry air. Use a hydrating lip balm with SPF throughout the day, and apply a thicker balm or lip mask before bed. Avoid lip balms with menthol or camphor, which can actually dry out your lips in the long run.
Here’s a sample hydration schedule tailored for Denver residents:
- Upon waking: 16 oz of water with electrolytes.
- Mid-morning: 8 oz of water.
- Lunch: 16 oz of water.
- Afternoon: 8 oz of water with electrolytes.
- Dinner: 16 oz of water.
- Before bed: 8 oz of water.
Adjust this schedule based on your activity level and individual needs. Listen to your body and drink when you’re thirsty.
A common mistake is to wait until you’re thirsty to drink. By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Make a conscious effort to drink water throughout the day, even when you don’t feel thirsty.
Another pitfall is relying solely on topical products. While skincare is important, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. You need to address internal hydration and environmental factors to truly combat the effects of Denver’s dry air.
Finally, be patient. It takes time to see results. Consistency is key. Stick to your hydration schedule and skincare routine, and you’ll start to notice a difference in your skin’s hydration and overall appearance.
Don’t let Denver’s altitude steal your youth. With a proactive approach to hydration and skincare, you can keep your skin healthy, radiant, and youthful, even in the Mile High City. Remember, it’s not about fighting the environment, but working with it to achieve optimal skin health.