Denver's Dryness: Altitude Cracking Summer Lashes?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe sting of dry eyes and the brittle snap of a lash are familiar woes to many Denverites. It’s not just an annoyance; it’s a direct consequence of our beloved city’s unique environment. The mile-high altitude and relentless sunshine, combined with a bone-dry climate, create a perfect storm for ocular and lash distress. But don’t despair, fellow Denver dwellers! There are concrete steps we can take to combat these issues, tailored specifically to our local conditions.
Denver’s dryness is the enemy. The low humidity sucks moisture from everything, including your eyes and lashes. This leads to dry eye syndrome, characterized by gritty, itchy, or burning sensations, and even blurry vision. Lashes, deprived of moisture, become brittle and prone to breakage.
Hydration is key, inside and out. Start with the basics: drink plenty of water. Aim for at least eight glasses a day, and even more if you’re active or spending time outdoors. But water alone isn’t enough.
For immediate relief from dry eyes, invest in high-quality lubricating eye drops. But not all eye drops are created equal. Avoid drops with preservatives, as these can actually worsen dryness over time. Look for preservative-free options, readily available at Denver pharmacies like King Soopers or Walgreens. Specifically, consider Systane Hydration PF or Refresh Relieva PF. These are formulated to mimic natural tears and provide long-lasting relief.
A common mistake is using eye drops only when your eyes feel dry. Instead, establish a preventative routine. Use eye drops several times a day, even when your eyes feel comfortable. This helps maintain a consistent level of hydration and prevents dryness from setting in. Think of it like moisturizing your skin – you wouldn’t wait until it’s cracked and peeling to apply lotion.
Next, consider your indoor environment. Denver homes, especially during the winter months, are notoriously dry due to forced-air heating. A humidifier is your best friend. Place one in your bedroom to add moisture to the air while you sleep. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60%. You can monitor this with a simple hygrometer, available at hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in the Denver area.
For lash health, hydration is equally important. Lash serums are a game-changer, but choose wisely. Look for serums containing ingredients like biotin, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help to strengthen and hydrate lashes, promoting growth and preventing breakage. A great option available at Sephora in Cherry Creek is the GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum. It’s a cult favorite for a reason, delivering noticeable results in just a few weeks.
Be patient with lash serums. It takes time to see results, typically 4-6 weeks. Consistency is key. Apply the serum every night before bed, following the instructions carefully. Avoid getting the serum in your eyes, as this can cause irritation.
Another often overlooked factor is sun protection. Denver’s high altitude means we’re exposed to significantly more UV radiation than people living at sea level. This can damage both your eyes and your lashes. Invest in a good pair of sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for wraparound styles that provide maximum coverage. You can find stylish and effective sunglasses at stores like Sunglass Hut in the Denver Pavilions.
Diet also plays a role in eye and lash health. Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. These healthy fats help to reduce inflammation and improve tear production. Good sources include salmon, tuna, flaxseeds, and walnuts. You can find fresh salmon at seafood markets like Pacific Ocean Marketplace in Aurora.
Consider adding a supplement to your routine. Omega-3 supplements are widely available at health food stores like Natural Grocers in Denver. Look for a high-quality supplement containing both EPA and DHA.
A common pitfall is neglecting your eyelids. Eyelid hygiene is crucial for preventing dry eye and maintaining lash health. Use a gentle eyelid cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. A good option is OCuSOFT Lid Scrub, available at most pharmacies.
Avoid harsh makeup removers that can strip your lashes of moisture. Opt for gentle, oil-based removers instead. The Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm, available at Nordstrom in the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, is a great choice.
Finally, be mindful of your habits. Rubbing your eyes can irritate them and damage your lashes. Avoid this as much as possible. If you wear contact lenses, make sure to clean and disinfect them properly. Consider switching to daily disposable lenses to minimize the risk of infection and dryness.
Denver’s climate presents unique challenges to eye and lash health. But by implementing these strategies, you can combat dryness, prevent breakage, and maintain healthy, comfortable eyes and lashes. Remember, consistency is key. Make these tips a part of your daily routine, and you’ll be well on your way to thriving in the Mile High City.