Denver's Dew: Is Altitude Drying Summer Lashes?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe struggle is real: you wake up in Denver, ready to face the day, only to find your eyelashes looking like they’ve been through a desert sandstorm. Dry, brittle, and prone to breakage, they’re screaming for moisture in this mile-high, arid climate. It’s a common problem for Denverites, especially during the summer months when the sun beats down and the air is thinner than a politician’s promise. But fear not, fellow lash-lovers! There are concrete steps you can take to combat the Denver dryness and keep your lashes luscious and healthy.
Denver’s unique climate is the culprit. The combination of high altitude and low humidity sucks moisture from everything, including your delicate eyelashes. The sun’s intensity at this altitude also exacerbates the problem, leading to increased dryness and UV damage. This can result in brittle lashes that break easily, hindering growth and leaving you with a sparse, lackluster look.
So, what’s a Denver resident to do? Hydration, hydration, hydration! And not just by drinking water (though that’s crucial too!). We need to focus on directly hydrating the lashes themselves.
Here’s a step-by-step approach, tailored for the Denver environment:
Oil Up: Think of lash oil as your daily dose of moisture. Look for products containing castor oil, argan oil, or coconut oil. These oils are readily available at local Denver stores like Sprouts, Whole Foods, and even Target. Castor oil, in particular, is known for its thickening properties. Apply a small amount to your lashes before bed using a clean mascara wand or your fingertip. Be careful not to get it in your eyes!
Humidify Your Home: A humidifier is your best friend in Denver. It adds moisture back into the air, combating the dryness that wreaks havoc on your lashes (and skin!). Consider a cool-mist humidifier for your bedroom, especially during the summer. You can find affordable options at stores like King Soopers, Walmart, and online retailers like Amazon, which delivers reliably to Denver.
Gentle Cleansing is Key: Harsh cleansers strip away natural oils, further drying out your lashes. Opt for a gentle, oil-based cleanser specifically designed for removing eye makeup. Micellar water is another good option. You can find brands like Bioderma or Garnier at most drugstores in Denver, such as Walgreens or CVS. Avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously; instead, gently press the cotton pad against your lashes and hold for a few seconds to dissolve the makeup.
Mascara Matters: Not all mascaras are created equal. Avoid waterproof mascaras, as they tend to be more drying and require harsher removal methods. Look for mascaras that contain moisturizing ingredients like panthenol or glycerin. Many brands available at Ulta Beauty on Colorado Blvd in Denver offer these options. Consider tubing mascaras, which coat each lash in a tube-like polymer, making them easier to remove with just warm water.
Sun Protection (Yes, for Your Lashes!): While you can’t exactly slather sunscreen on your lashes, wearing sunglasses with UV protection is crucial. This protects your eyes and the delicate skin around them, preventing further dryness and damage to your lashes. You can find stylish and affordable sunglasses at stores like Sunglass Hut in Cherry Creek Mall or even at T.J. Maxx.
Diet and Supplements: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for overall hair health, including your lashes. Ensure you’re getting enough biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids. You can find these supplements at local health food stores like Natural Grocers or Vitamin Cottage.
Professional Help: If you’re experiencing severe lash breakage or thinning, consider consulting a dermatologist or a licensed esthetician in Denver. They can assess your lash health and recommend personalized treatments or products. Many reputable salons and spas in the Highlands or LoDo neighborhoods offer lash conditioning treatments.
A common pitfall is over-exfoliating the eye area. While exfoliation is important for removing dead skin cells, overdoing it can strip away natural oils and further dry out your lashes. Limit exfoliation around the eyes to once or twice a week, using a very gentle scrub.
Another mistake is using expired mascara. Expired mascara can harbor bacteria, leading to eye infections and irritation, which can further damage your lashes. Replace your mascara every three months to prevent this.
Don’t underestimate the power of a silk pillowcase. Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from your skin and lashes while you sleep, leading to dryness and breakage. Silk pillowcases are gentler on your lashes and help retain moisture. You can find silk pillowcases at department stores like Nordstrom in Park Meadows Mall or online.
Living in Denver presents unique challenges to lash health, but with the right knowledge and a proactive approach, you can maintain healthy, hydrated lashes even in this dry, high-altitude environment. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine and being mindful of the specific challenges posed by the Denver climate, you can achieve the luscious lashes you’ve always dreamed of. Remember, consistency is key!