## Denver Skin: Is Altitude AC Drying Lips Faster?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

September 25, 2025

Are your lips perpetually parched, cracking like the arid Colorado landscape? You’re not alone. Denver, with its unique blend of high altitude, dry air, and modern conveniences, creates a perfect storm for chapped lips. But don’t despair, Mile High City dwellers! This isn’t a battle you have to lose.

Denver’s dry lip problem isn’t just anecdotal; it’s a confluence of environmental factors amplified by our lifestyle. Let’s break down why Denverites suffer more than, say, someone living in humid Houston.

First, the altitude. At 5,280 feet (and higher in many surrounding areas), the air pressure is lower. This means less moisture in the air and faster evaporation from your skin, including your lips. Think of it like this: water boils at a lower temperature at higher altitudes. The same principle applies to the moisture on your lips – it evaporates more readily.

Second, the arid climate. Colorado is a high desert. The Rocky Mountains create a rain shadow, blocking moisture from the Pacific Ocean. This results in low humidity levels, especially during the winter months. The average humidity in Denver can plummet to below 20%, which is drier than the Sahara Desert!

Third, indoor air conditioning and heating. We retreat indoors to escape the elements, but our HVAC systems often exacerbate the problem. Air conditioning sucks moisture out of the air in the summer, while forced-air heating does the same in the winter. This creates a double whammy of dryness, leaving your lips begging for moisture.

So, what can a Denver resident do? The solution isn’t just about slapping on any old lip balm. It’s about a multi-pronged approach tailored to our specific environment.

Humidify, Humidify, Humidify! This is non-negotiable. Invest in a good quality humidifier for your home, especially your bedroom. Aim for a humidity level between 40-60%. A hygrometer (humidity monitor) is a cheap and effective way to track the humidity in your home. Consider a whole-house humidifier if you have forced-air heating. Small, portable humidifiers are great for smaller spaces or for taking to the office.

Choose the Right Lip Balm: Not all lip balms are created equal. Many contain ingredients that can actually worsen dry lips in the long run. Avoid lip balms with:

• Camphor and Menthol: These provide a temporary cooling sensation but can be irritating and drying.
• Phenol: Another potential irritant.
• Salicylic Acid: An exfoliant that can strip away the natural oils from your lips.
• Artificial Fragrances and Flavors: These can be allergenic and irritating.

Instead, look for lip balms containing:

• Beeswax: A natural emollient that creates a protective barrier on the lips.
• Shea Butter: Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, providing deep hydration.
• Cocoa Butter: Another excellent emollient with a pleasant scent.
• Lanolin: A highly effective moisturizer derived from sheep’s wool. (Note: some people are allergic to lanolin).
• Hyaluronic Acid: A humectant that attracts moisture to the lips.
• Ceramides: Help to repair the skin barrier.
• SPF: Crucial for protecting your lips from the sun’s harmful rays, even in winter.

Specific Product Recommendations (Based on Denver’s Climate):

• For Everyday Use: Look for a beeswax-based balm with SPF 15 or higher. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm with SPF is a readily available and affordable option.
• For Intense Hydration: Aquaphor Healing Ointment is a classic for a reason. It’s a petrolatum-based ointment that creates a protective barrier and locks in moisture. Apply it liberally before bed.
• For Sun Protection: EltaMD UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 31 is a dermatologist-recommended option that provides excellent sun protection.

Hydrate from the Inside Out: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration exacerbates dry skin, including your lips. Carry a water bottle with you and sip on it regularly.

Avoid Licking Your Lips: This is a tough habit to break, but it’s crucial. Saliva contains enzymes that can break down the skin on your lips, making them even drier.

Consider a Lip Scrub (But Use Sparingly): Gently exfoliating your lips can remove dead skin cells and allow lip balm to penetrate more effectively. However, over-exfoliating can irritate your lips. Use a gentle lip scrub (or make your own with sugar and honey) no more than once or twice a week.

Seek Professional Help: If your chapped lips are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms (such as bleeding, cracking, or sores), consult a dermatologist. They can diagnose any underlying conditions and recommend prescription treatments.

Local Denver Dermatologist Recommendations:

While I can’t provide specific endorsements, I can suggest searching for dermatologists in Denver who specialize in treating dry skin conditions. Look for practices that offer services like:

• Patch testing: To identify potential allergens.
• Prescription-strength moisturizers: To provide intense hydration.
• Treatment for cheilitis: Inflammation of the lips.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

• Over-reliance on lip balm: Constantly applying lip balm can create a cycle of dependency. Your lips become reliant on the balm and stop producing their own natural oils.
• Using the wrong type of lip balm: As mentioned earlier, some ingredients can actually worsen dry lips.
• Ignoring underlying medical conditions: In rare cases, dry lips can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as vitamin deficiency or thyroid problems.
• Not protecting your lips from the sun: Sun exposure can damage the skin on your lips, making them more prone to dryness and cracking.

Real-World Scenario:

Imagine you’re a Denver resident who works in a downtown office building. The air conditioning is blasting all summer, and your lips are constantly dry and chapped. You’ve tried various lip balms, but nothing seems to work.

Here’s a step-by-step approach you can take:

1. Invest in a small humidifier for your desk.
2. Switch to a beeswax-based lip balm with SPF. Apply it liberally throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking.
3. Drink plenty of water. Keep a water bottle at your desk and refill it regularly.
4. Avoid licking your lips.
5. Apply Aquaphor Healing Ointment to your lips before bed.
6. If your lips don’t improve after a few weeks, consult a dermatologist.

By understanding the unique challenges of Denver’s climate and adopting a proactive approach, you can finally say goodbye to chapped lips and hello to a healthy, hydrated smile. Don’t let the altitude get you down – or dry you out!