Denver Skin: Altitude AC Lies Inflating Pores?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

February 6, 2026

Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt like your pores were screaming at you? Maybe you’ve even blamed Denver’s dry air or the constant blast of air conditioning. But what if I told you the real culprit isn’t the Mile High City itself, but rather a misunderstanding of what causes enlarged pores in the first place? Let’s dive into the truth about pores and how to actually minimize them, Denver-style.

The myth that Denver’s altitude directly enlarges pores is just that – a myth. Altitude itself doesn’t physically stretch your pores open. The real issues are often dehydration, sun damage exacerbated by the intense Colorado sun, and good old-fashioned genetics.

Think of your pores like tiny drainage pipes for oil. When they get clogged or the surrounding skin loses elasticity, they appear larger.

So, what really causes those pesky enlarged pores?

Genetics: This is the big one. If your parents have large pores, chances are you will too. It’s in your DNA.
Sun Damage: The sun breaks down collagen and elastin, the support structures of your skin. This loss of elasticity makes pores appear larger because the skin around them sags. Denver’s high altitude means you’re closer to the sun and its harmful UV rays, making sun protection even more crucial.
Oil Production: Excess sebum (oil) can stretch the pore, making it more visible. Hormonal fluctuations, diet, and even stress can influence oil production.
Age: As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen and elastin, leading to a decrease in skin firmness and increased pore size.
Comedones (Blackheads and Whiteheads): Clogged pores are stretched pores. Blackheads are open comedones filled with oil and dead skin cells that have oxidized, turning black. Whiteheads are closed comedones.
Inflammation: Chronic inflammation from acne or harsh skincare products can damage the pore lining, making it appear larger.

Now, let’s debunk the altitude and air conditioning connection. While Denver’s dry air can lead to dehydration, which can make pores appear larger due to skin shrinkage, it doesn’t physically enlarge them. Similarly, air conditioning can dry out the skin, leading to the same temporary effect. The key is hydration, both internal and external.

So, how do we combat enlarged pores in Denver’s unique environment? It’s all about a targeted skincare routine.

Here’s a Denver-specific skincare routine to minimize the appearance of pores:

Hydration, Hydration, Hydration: Denver’s dry air is brutal. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Invest in a good humidifier, especially during the winter months. Look for hyaluronic acid serums. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. Apply it to damp skin for best results. A great local option is the “Hydration Booster” from a Denver-based esthetician, often found at local markets.
Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every single day, even when it’s cloudy. Reapply every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. Look for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are generally gentler on the skin and less likely to clog pores. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice and readily available at many Denver dermatologists’ offices.
Gentle Exfoliation: Exfoliating removes dead skin cells that can clog pores. Opt for gentle chemical exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids). Salicylic acid is a BHA that’s particularly effective at unclogging pores. Start with a low concentration (1-2%) and gradually increase as tolerated. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a widely available and effective option. Don’t over-exfoliate! This can irritate the skin and make pores appear larger. Limit exfoliation to 1-3 times per week.
Retinoids: Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that increase cell turnover, reduce oil production, and stimulate collagen production. They can be very effective at minimizing pore size. Start with a low concentration (0.01% or 0.025%) and gradually increase as tolerated. Apply at night, as retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion is a good starting point. Be patient! It can take several weeks or months to see results from retinoids.
Clay Masks: Clay masks can help absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from pores. Look for masks containing bentonite or kaolin clay. Use them 1-2 times per week. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is a popular and affordable option, but be sure to mix it with apple cider vinegar for best results.
Niacinamide: Niacinamide (vitamin B3) can help reduce oil production, minimize pore size, and improve skin tone. Look for serums containing 2-5% niacinamide. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a popular and affordable option, but some people find it irritating. Start with a lower concentration if you have sensitive skin.
Professional Treatments: Consider professional treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser resurfacing. These treatments can help exfoliate the skin, stimulate collagen production, and minimize pore size. Consult with a dermatologist or licensed esthetician in Denver to determine the best treatment for your skin type and concerns. Many med spas in Cherry Creek offer a range of pore-minimizing treatments.

Common mistakes to avoid:

Picking and Squeezing: This can damage the pore and lead to inflammation and scarring, making pores appear even larger. Resist the urge!
Using Harsh Scrubs: Harsh scrubs can irritate the skin and damage the pore lining. Opt for gentle chemical exfoliants instead.
Over-Exfoliating: Over-exfoliating can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation and inflammation. Limit exfoliation to 1-3 times per week.
Using Pore Strips: Pore strips can temporarily remove blackheads, but they don’t address the underlying cause of enlarged pores. They can also irritate the skin and damage the pore lining.
Skipping Sunscreen: Sun damage is a major contributor to enlarged pores. Don’t skip sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
Not Hydrating Enough: Dehydration can make pores appear larger. Drink plenty of water and use a hydrating moisturizer.

Remember, minimizing pore size is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time and consistency to see results. Be patient, stick to your routine, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results overnight.

Finally, consider your lifestyle. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management can all contribute to healthier skin. Avoid smoking, as it damages collagen and elastin.

So, ditch the Denver altitude blame game and focus on what you can control: a consistent, targeted skincare routine that addresses the real causes of enlarged pores. With the right products and habits, you can achieve smoother, more refined skin, even in the Mile High City.