**Denver's Dryness: Altitude Lies Crashing Skin Estrogen?**
By Franklin Everett ShawIs your skin feeling like sandpaper lately, despite your best efforts with moisturizer? Are fine lines appearing faster than you’d like? If you’re a woman living in Denver, Colorado, you might be experiencing the double whammy of low estrogen and the city’s unique environmental challenges. Let’s tackle this head-on with a practical guide tailored for Denver residents.
Denver’s high altitude (the “Mile High City” isn’t just a nickname!) and dry climate can significantly impact skin health. The thinner air means less oxygen and increased UV radiation exposure, accelerating skin aging. Lower humidity sucks moisture from your skin, leading to dryness and exacerbating the effects of declining estrogen levels.
First, let’s address the estrogen piece. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a conversation to have with your doctor, there are dietary strategies you can implement right now to support your body’s natural estrogen production.
Embrace Phytoestrogens: These plant-based compounds mimic estrogen in the body. Good sources readily available in Denver grocery stores include:
- Flaxseeds: Add ground flaxseeds to your morning oatmeal or smoothie. You can find them at Sprouts or Natural Grocers.
- Soybeans: Edamame, tofu, and tempeh are all excellent choices. H Mart on Parker Road has a wide selection of soy products.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds on salads or stir-fries.
- Dried Fruits: Dates, prunes, and apricots can be found at most grocery stores.
- Garlic: Incorporate garlic into your cooking regularly.
Don’t Forget Healthy Fats: Estrogen production relies on healthy fats. Avocados, nuts, and olive oil are your friends. Denver Central Market offers a great selection of artisanal olive oils.
Limit Processed Foods and Sugar: These can disrupt hormone balance. Denver has plenty of farmers’ markets (like the South Pearl Street Farmers Market) where you can find fresh, whole foods.
Now, let’s talk about combating Denver’s dry air.
Humidify, Humidify, Humidify: This is non-negotiable. Invest in a good quality humidifier for your bedroom and consider one for your living room as well. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60%. You can find humidifiers at Target or Home Depot. A common mistake is not cleaning your humidifier regularly, which can lead to mold growth. Clean it weekly with a diluted vinegar solution.
Hydrate from the Inside Out: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it often. Denver’s tap water is generally good, but you can also invest in a water filter.
Moisturize Strategically: Apply moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your face, while your skin is still damp. This helps to lock in moisture.
Next, let’s build a skincare routine tailored for Denver’s climate and estrogen-related dryness.
Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh soaps that strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. You can find these at Sephora in Cherry Creek or Ulta Beauty.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum: This is a moisture magnet. Apply it to damp skin before your moisturizer. The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is an affordable and effective option available at most Sephora locations.
Rich Moisturizer: Choose a thick, creamy moisturizer that contains ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or squalane. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a readily available and affordable option at most drugstores like Walgreens or CVS.
Sunscreen, Every Single Day: Denver’s high altitude means increased UV exposure, even on cloudy days. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice recommended by dermatologists and available at some medical spas in Denver. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
Nighttime Routine: Incorporate a richer moisturizer or a facial oil into your nighttime routine. Rosehip oil is a good option for its hydrating and anti-aging properties. You can find it at Whole Foods Market.
Exfoliate Gently: Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, allowing your moisturizer to penetrate more effectively. However, avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate dry skin. Opt for a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or glycolic acid, used once or twice a week. The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% + HA is a good starting point.
Consider a Facial Oil: Facial oils can help to lock in moisture and provide an extra layer of protection against the dry air. Argan oil, jojoba oil, and rosehip oil are all good options.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them:
Over-Exfoliating: This can damage your skin barrier and lead to increased dryness and sensitivity. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week and use a gentle product.
Using Harsh Cleansers: Many cleansers contain sulfates, which can strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for sulfate-free cleansers.
Not Drinking Enough Water: It’s easy to forget to drink water, especially when you’re busy. Set reminders on your phone or carry a water bottle with you.
Skipping Sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential, even on cloudy days. Make it a part of your daily routine.
Ignoring Indoor Humidity: Even if it’s humid outside, your indoor air can still be dry, especially during the winter months. Use a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels.
Not Consulting a Dermatologist: If you’re concerned about accelerated skin aging or dryness, consult a dermatologist. They can help you develop a personalized skincare routine and address any underlying medical conditions. Many dermatologists in Denver offer virtual consultations.
Real-World Scenario:
Let’s say you’re a 50-year-old woman living in Wash Park, Denver. You’ve noticed your skin is drier than usual, and you’re starting to see more fine lines around your eyes. You’re not on HRT, but you’re open to dietary changes and skincare adjustments.
Here’s a possible action plan:
- Diet: Start incorporating flaxseeds into your morning oatmeal and add edamame to your salads.
- Humidity: Purchase a humidifier for your bedroom and aim for a humidity level of 40-60%.
- Skincare: Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Add a hyaluronic acid serum and a rich moisturizer to your routine. Use sunscreen every day.
- Consultation: Schedule a virtual consultation with a dermatologist to discuss your concerns and get personalized recommendations.
By addressing both the internal (estrogen support) and external (environmental factors) aspects of skin aging and dryness, you can create a comprehensive plan to keep your skin healthy and radiant in Denver’s challenging climate. Remember to be patient and consistent with your routine, and don’t be afraid to adjust it as needed. Your skin will thank you for it.