**Denver Dryness: Altitude Stealing HA Savings?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe air here in Denver isn’t just thin; it’s thirsty. You can practically feel your skin screaming for moisture the moment you step off the plane at DIA. But don’t despair, fellow Denverites! We can fight back against this arid assault.
Denver’s dryness is a double whammy: high altitude and low humidity. This combination sucks the moisture right out of your skin and body, depleting your natural hyaluronic acid (HA) reserves. HA is a naturally occurring molecule that acts like a sponge, holding up to 1000 times its weight in water. It’s crucial for keeping your skin plump, hydrated, and youthful.
So, how do we replenish this vital molecule in the Mile High City? Let’s dive into a Denver-specific hydration strategy.
First, let’s talk food. While you can’t directly eat hyaluronic acid and expect it to magically appear in your skin, certain foods can boost your body’s natural HA production.
Bone Broth: This is a fantastic source of proline and glycine, amino acids that are essential for collagen synthesis, which in turn supports HA production. You can find locally sourced bone broth at farmers’ markets like the South Pearl Street Farmers Market or make your own using bones from local butchers like Western Daughters Butcher Shoppe.
Citrus Fruits: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and a key player in collagen synthesis. Colorado may not be known for its citrus groves, but you can find high-quality oranges, grapefruits, and lemons at stores like Natural Grocers, which often sources organic produce.
Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with magnesium, another mineral that supports HA production. Grow your own in a raised garden bed to ensure freshness and quality, or buy from local farms at the Boulder County Farmers Markets.
Root Vegetables: Potatoes and sweet potatoes contain complex carbohydrates that can help your body retain water. Colorado-grown potatoes are readily available at most grocery stores, supporting local agriculture and your hydration levels.
Now, let’s get into DIY skincare. Store-bought HA serums can be expensive, and often contain unnecessary additives. Making your own allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the formula to Denver’s unique climate.
Here’s a simple recipe for a HA serum perfect for Denver’s dry air:
Ingredients:
- 1 gram Hyaluronic Acid Powder (low molecular weight is best for penetration)
- 30 ml Distilled Water
- 5 ml Glycerin (a humectant that attracts moisture)
- 2 ml Rosewater (optional, for added hydration and scent)
- 1 ml Jojoba Oil (optional, for added moisture and skin barrier support)
Instructions:
- Slowly whisk the hyaluronic acid powder into the distilled water. Be patient; it can take a few minutes to fully dissolve.
- Once the HA is dissolved, add the glycerin, rosewater (if using), and jojoba oil (if using).
- Mix well and transfer to a clean, dark glass bottle with a dropper.
- Store in a cool, dark place.
Application: Apply a few drops to damp skin after cleansing, morning and night. Follow with a moisturizer to seal in the hydration.
Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is using too much HA powder. This can result in a sticky serum that pills on the skin. Start with a small amount and gradually increase until you reach the desired consistency. Also, always use distilled water to prevent contamination.
Next, let’s consider HA supplements. While topical application is important, supplementing can help boost HA levels throughout your body.
Choosing a Supplement: Look for supplements that contain low molecular weight HA, as this is more easily absorbed. Also, consider supplements that combine HA with other skin-loving ingredients like collagen, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Dosage: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but generally, a daily dose of 100-200mg of HA is recommended.
Brands: While I can’t endorse specific brands, research reputable companies that use high-quality ingredients and have third-party testing for purity and potency. Check online retailers and local health food stores like Vitamin Cottage Natural Grocers.
Finally, let’s talk about humidifiers. A humidifier can make a huge difference in combating Denver’s dry air, especially during the winter months when heating systems further deplete indoor humidity.
Types of Humidifiers:
- Evaporative Humidifiers: These use a fan to blow air through a wet wick, evaporating water into the air. They are generally affordable and energy-efficient.
- Ultrasonic Humidifiers: These use high-frequency sound vibrations to create a fine mist. They are quiet and energy-efficient, but can sometimes leave a white dust residue if you have hard water.
- Warm Mist Humidifiers: These boil water to create steam, which is then cooled and released into the air. They can help kill bacteria and mold, but they use more energy and can be a burn hazard.
Choosing the Right Humidifier: Consider the size of your room when choosing a humidifier. A small humidifier may be sufficient for a bedroom, but you’ll need a larger unit for a living room or whole house. Also, consider your water quality. If you have hard water, an ultrasonic humidifier may leave a white dust residue.
Maintenance: Clean your humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, and use distilled water to minimize mineral buildup.
Denver-Specific Tip: Consider a whole-house humidifier if you have forced-air heating. These units are installed directly into your HVAC system and can humidify your entire home, providing consistent relief from Denver’s dry air. Talk to a local HVAC professional like Brothers Plumbing, Heating & Electric for installation and maintenance.
Living in Denver means embracing the outdoors, but it also means taking extra care to protect your skin and body from the harsh, dry climate. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can replenish your HA levels, keep your skin hydrated, and thrive in the Mile High City. Don’t let the dryness win!